Environmental Enhancement and Mitigation (2025)

The Environmental Enhancement and Mitigation (EEM) Program, administered by the California Natural Resources Agency, is authorized by California Streets and Highways Code Section 164.56. This statute allows up to $6.7 million in funding annually for projects that mitigate or enhance the environmental impacts of transportation facilities. The program supports projects that are either directly or indirectly related to the environmental effects caused by construction or modification of transportation facilities, including highways, streets, ports, transit systems, and other related infrastructure. The purpose of the EEM Program is to fund projects under three categories: Urban Forestry, Resource Lands, and Mitigation Projects Beyond the Scope of the Lead Agency. Urban Forestry projects focus on planting trees and vegetation to offset carbon emissions. Resource Lands projects aim to acquire or enhance lands impacted by transportation facilities. The third category supports projects implementing mitigation measures beyond the legal scope of the lead agency responsible for the transportation project. To qualify, every EEM project must have a clear connection to a Related Transportation Facility (RTF), which must have demonstrable adverse environmental impacts and meet specific timing and funding criteria. Eligible applicants include local, state, and federal agencies, as well as 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Federally recognized tribes are also considered eligible as local agencies. Nonprofits must be current and registered with the IRS, California Secretary of State, and Attorney General’s Registry of Charities. Acquisition projects may be submitted in multiple applications by the same applicant, whereas only one proposal is permitted for development projects. The application process involves a three-step review: an initial project proposal submitted through the RAPTR online system, field visits for top-ranked proposals, and a final review of supporting documentation. Projects are scored on general and category-specific criteria with a maximum of 100 points. Factors include alignment with statewide goals, community engagement, readiness, and sustainability. The funding limits are generally $750,000 per project, with acquisition projects considered for up to $1.5 million under special circumstances. Matching funds are not required but may increase competitiveness. Projects must be completed by March 1, 2030, in line with the anticipated end of funding availability through the 2030/2031 fiscal year. Applicants must submit a comprehensive set of documents including project descriptions, maps, photographs, cost estimates, environmental compliance records, and evidence of ownership or land control. Nonprofits must additionally submit verification of their tax-exempt status and registration standing. Technical assistance workshops and resources are provided by the Agency, and all applications must be submitted online via the RAPTR system. For further questions, applicants may contact the California Natural Resources Agency at (916) 653-2812 or via email at eemcoordinator@resources.ca.gov.