Invasive Plant Grant (IPG)

The Invasive Plant Grant Program, administered by the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM), is a targeted initiative to address the ecological and environmental threats posed by non-native invasive plants across Arizona. These species, which span across all land ownership types, disrupt natural ecosystems by altering fire regimes, degrading watersheds, out-competing native species, and contributing to increased fire and flood risks. Recognizing the broad and severe impact of invasive plant infestations, the program is supported by funding from both the State of Arizona and the U.S. Forest Service. The 2026 funding cycle for this program opened on March 4, 2026, and closes on April 15, 2026. The program's primary objective is to assist in the prevention, control, and eradication of invasive plant species throughout the state. By doing so, the DFFM aims to conserve water, restore wildlife habitats, and prevent future fire and flood events. The grant emphasizes the use of an integrated weed management approach, which includes manual, cultural, mechanical, chemical, and biological control methods. In addition, reseeding and the replanting of native species are considered essential components of the management strategy. Funded projects must demonstrate these best practices and work to increase local capacity for managing invasive plant threats. Applicants may request funding amounts between $75,000 and $200,000 for projects located on state, private, federal, or tribal lands within Arizona. Eligible applicants include government organizations at the state, county, or local level; tribal entities; public educational institutions; and 501(c) non-profit organizations. Private landowners are also eligible to participate but must apply through one of the qualified applicant categories. For-profit companies are not eligible for funding. Notably, any project costs incurred before a formal agreement with the State Forester is signed will not be eligible for reimbursement. The application process is entirely electronic, with all submissions required through an online portal. Applicants must ensure that all documents are uploaded through this platform by 11:59 PM on the final deadline date, April 15, 2026. Late submissions or submissions through alternate means will not be accepted under any circumstances. Additionally, the program does not accept any pre-application materials or concept papers, simplifying the entry process but requiring applicants to ensure completeness and accuracy upon initial submission. While no specific evaluation rubric or award notification timeline is provided, applications are expected to align with the outlined objectives and demonstrate effective strategies for invasive species management. Proposals should reflect a clear understanding of integrated weed management and the ecological impact of invasive plant control. The grant program maintains a non-discriminatory stance and is committed to inclusivity in its funding practices. For further information or inquiries, applicants can contact the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management at their Phoenix office, located at 1110 West Washington St #500, Phoenix, AZ 85007, or by phone at (602) 771-1400. Though the program does not publish award or notification dates, applicants can anticipate that evaluation will occur after the deadline, with performance periods likely to begin following formal agreement with the State Forester. No additional documentation such as a downloadable PDF of the application guidelines was referenced in the available source material.