The US Forest Service’s Community Forest Program is now accepting grant applications for FY 2025. The program offers a unique opportunity for communities to acquire and conserve forests that provide public access and recreational opportunities, protect vital water supplies and wildlife habitat, serve as demonstration sites for private forest landowners, and provide economic benefits from timber and non-timber products.

The Request for Applications for Fiscal Year 2025 is now available on Grants.gov (Opportunity Number: USDA-FS-2025-CFP). Applications are due to State Foresters or equivalent Tribal officials by January 13, 2025. Applications are encouraged from across the country. If you are interested in applying, contact your CFP Regional Contact. For complete information on the program and application process, see the Final Rule.

Program Basics

  • Full fee title acquisition is required. Conservation easements are not eligible.
  • Community Forests can be owned by local governments, tribal governments, and qualified nonprofit entities.
  • The program pays up to 50% of the project costs and requires a 50% non-federal match.
  • Public access is required for Community Forest Program projects.
  • Lands acquired through the program are actively managed in accordance with a community forest plan to provide community benefits.

Several informational webinars are available online, including an overview of the Community Forest Program, including eligibility and program requirements, the timeline for the current application cycle, how to apply, and much more. Review the September how to apply webinar recording.

For more information about applying, visit the program website.

 

Capital Strategic Solutions assists our clients with researching grant opportunities and obtaining grant funding each year by crafting compelling applications and identifying ways to scale effective programs. We offer a full variety of grant writing, management and technical assistance services customized to the needs of our clients. Our team is skilled at overseeing the entire grant lifecycle process, from proposal to closing, including pre-award management, approval process, tracking payments, reviewing budgets, producing relevant reports and post-award contract compliance. 

For more information, email us at info@capital-strategic-solutions.com.