2025 Wildfire & Forest Resilience Directed Grant Program

The Wildfire and Forest Resilience Directed Grant Program, administered by the Sierra Nevada Conservancy (SNC), is designed to fund projects that directly address California’s ongoing wildfire crisis. The program stems from legislative and executive mandates, notably the passage of Proposition 4 in November 2024, which allocated $1.5 billion to climate and natural resource resilience initiatives statewide. From this, $33.5 million was designated for the SNC to support watershed improvement, forest health, biomass utilization, and workforce development, particularly benefiting disadvantaged and vulnerable populations. An additional $30.9 million was appropriated through Assembly Bill 100 in April 2025 to further wildfire prevention and resilience efforts across the Sierra-Cascade Region. This program’s primary goal is to protect people and communities from wildfire risks by investing in ecologically sound forest restoration and management practices. Projects must demonstrate immediate readiness and the ability to commence work on the ground no later than October 15, 2026. All funded projects must be completed within two years of initiating on-the-ground activities. Eligible projects include vegetation removal for fuel breaks, community defensible space, road safety, and culturally informed fire treatments. Projects must be located within the Sierra-Cascade Region and yield measurable and enduring public benefits. Planning-only projects, educational campaigns, and fee acquisitions are not eligible. Eligible applicants include public agencies (state, federal, local), 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, and federally or state-recognized tribal entities. All applications must have completed environmental compliance under CEQA or the Statewide Fuels Reduction Environmental Protection Plan (EPP). Projects impacting forests and timberlands require involvement from Registered Professional Foresters, unless implemented on federal lands using qualified staff. Applicants must demonstrate long-term management plans and allow SNC monitoring for 25 years post-completion. The application process begins with the submission of a Statement of Interest, available on the SNC Grants webpage. Following this, potential projects may be subject to site visits and consultation with SNC area representatives. Proposals will be accepted on a rolling basis through January 31, 2026, or until all funds are allocated. Evaluation is based on eight criteria, including alignment with program goals, project design, community support, and use of conservation corps. Proposals scoring 80 or more out of 100 may be recommended for funding, which is formalized through a grant agreement. Funding under this program comes primarily from Proposition 4. A total of $10 million is currently available, with a mandate that at least 40 percent benefits vulnerable or disadvantaged populations. Eligible expenses include direct project costs, administrative costs (within allowable indirect cost rates), and specific tribal participation costs. SNC also requires detailed performance tracking and reporting, including GIS data and biannual progress updates. Preference is given to projects involving California Native American tribes, the California Conservation Corps, and those developed under regional capacity programs. For assistance or questions, applicants are advised to contact the appropriate SNC area representative. Additional information, forms, and guidance are accessible via the SNC website. Projects receiving funding must include signage acknowledging Proposition 4 support and are encouraged to share project impact via press or video releases.