Forestland Preservation - Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program
Forecasted
Forestland Preservation - Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program supports local governments, conservancies, and the state Conservation Commission in securing easements and leases to preserve working forests.
Funder: Recreation and Conservation Office
Due Dates (Anticipated): April 2028 (Application) | July 2028 (Technical completion)
Funding Amounts: Up to $500,000 per project; no minimum request
Summary: Supports voluntary conservation easements and leases that preserve Washington working forests for timber production, with optional habitat restoration.
Key Information: Every project must acquire an easement or lease and preserve forestland forever; fee-title acquisition is not funded.
Description
Forestland Preservation is a category of the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program, administered by the Recreation and Conservation Funding Board with support from the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO). It funds voluntary conservation easements and leases that keep Washington forests available for timber production. Created in 2016, the category supports working forests that also provide wildlife habitat, ecological benefits, jobs, recreation, and scenic beauty.
Projects may combine acquisition of property rights with enhancement or restoration that improves the forestland’s ecological functions. Examples include restoring stream corridors, planting native vegetation, installing fences or bridges, and replacing culverts. Timber production must remain the primary purpose. Public access is not required, and habitat restoration cannot be funded as a stand-alone project.
