Invasive Plant Grant - FY 2026

The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM), in partnership with funding from the State of Arizona and the USDA Forest Service, is offering the 2026 Invasive Plant Grant to address the urgent challenge posed by non-native invasive plants across Arizona. These invasive species disrupt natural fire regimes, degrade habitats, alter watersheds, and negatively impact the natural aesthetics and functionality of the landscape. The program's overarching aim is to reduce the spread and impact of invasive plant infestations by funding strategic, shovel-ready projects that use integrated weed management practices. Eligible projects must focus on the treatment, control, and eradication of invasive plant species on a range of land ownerships including state, federal, tribal, and private lands within Arizona. The program prioritizes projects aligned with the Invasive Plant Program's Strategic Plan and the State Forest Action Plan, particularly those targeting species listed on Arizona’s Noxious Weed List. Preferred projects will demonstrate cross-agency collaboration, target Class A and Class B noxious weeds, and propose outcomes that mitigate fire and flood risk, conserve water, and restore wildlife habitats. Techniques must incorporate manual, mechanical, cultural, chemical, and/or biological methods. Funding for the program totals $970,000, with individual project awards ranging between $75,000 and $200,000. All awards are issued as reimbursements, contingent on submission of documentation showing eligible incurred costs. Awardees are required to contribute a minimum of 10% of the total project cost in matching funds—either through cash or in-kind contributions. Applicants offering a match up to 30% may be prioritized. Examples of eligible match sources include volunteer hours, donated labor or equipment, and expenses incurred by partnering organizations. However, capital equipment over $10,000 per unit and purchases such as food or beverage are not allowable expenses. Eligible applicants include state, county, and local governments, public educational institutions, federally recognized Indian tribes, and 501(c) nonprofit organizations. For-profit entities and individuals are not eligible. Applicants may submit multiple proposals, though total funding is capped per applicant. Each submission must include a completed application form, an organization profile, a detailed budget using the provided form, and a project area map. Additional supporting documentation, such as letters of support, is optional but encouraged. Applications are submitted via DFFM's online portal (portal.ecivis.com) and are due no later than April 15, 2026. Submitted proposals will be reviewed and scored based on alignment with program priorities, project readiness, collaborative planning, feasibility, long-term sustainability, and clarity of goals and metrics. All required permits, GIS data, and project readiness factors must be established at the time of award notification. Projects should be implementable immediately upon award. Final award notifications are expected by summer 2026. All funded projects must be completed within the prescribed grant performance period. This opportunity is issued on a recurring basis. Interested applicants should monitor the DFFM website for future rounds and updates. For technical assistance or questions, applicants are advised to contact the Invasive Plant Program team at [email protected] or (602) 291-4167.

Higher match contributions (up to 30%) may increase competitiveness; incomplete or unready projects may be disqualified; proposals without maps will not be scored.