FY25 IIJA/IRA Bureau of Land Management California Plant Conservation and Restoration Management

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has announced a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the FY25 IIJA/IRA Bureau of Land Management California Plant Conservation and Restoration Management program, with the funding opportunity number L25AS00174. This initiative aims to advance the Department of the Interior's priorities, including addressing the climate crisis, restoring ecological balance on public lands, promoting environmental justice, and supporting clean energy futures. The program aligns with the National Seed Strategy, emphasizing biodiversity protection, resilience to climate change, and sustainable native plant restoration practices. Eligible applicants include state, county, and city governments, special district governments, Native American tribal governments and organizations, public and private institutions of higher education, and nonprofits with or without 501(c)(3) status. For-profit organizations and individuals are not eligible to apply. Additionally, the program does not support entities hiring interns or crews under the Public Lands Corps Act of 1993. The program goals focus on developing genetically appropriate native plant materials, implementing and assessing seed-based restoration techniques, inventorying and monitoring rare plant species, and restoring native plant communities to improve resilience against environmental stressors. Projects may also address pollinator conservation, promote collaboration with growers for seed production, and encourage community engagement through citizen science and education programs. The total estimated program funding is $2,000,000, with an anticipated 30 awards. The maximum award ceiling is $975,000, and the minimum award floor is $25,000. Cost-sharing is not required for this funding opportunity. Projects are expected to start on August 1, 2025, and must be completed by July 31, 2030. Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by 5:00 PM ET on March 8, 2025. Applicants are encouraged to contact the state's Plant Conservation and Restoration Program Lead, Christina Lund, or the Ecoregional Plant Program Lead before submission to ensure alignment with BLM priorities. Evaluation of applications will consider factors such as the applicant's statement of need, technical approach, public benefit, qualifications, past performance, and the leveraging of resources. Applications will undergo eligibility review, merit review, and risk assessment before final selection. Post-award requirements include adherence to federal reporting standards, submission of financial and program performance reports, and compliance with infrastructure-related mandates, including Buy America preferences.