Wildlife Corridors – Nature Based Solutions

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is accepting ongoing concept proposals for its Restoration Grant Programs. These grants are intended to support various environmental restoration projects through multiple funding sources, including Propositions 1 and 68. Applicants can submit a single concept proposal for consideration under different funding streams, such as nature-based solutions, drought and climate resiliency, wildlife corridors, wetlands restoration, and more. These funding opportunities are aligned with state environmental priorities like habitat restoration, ecological resilience, and biodiversity protection. The application process follows a five-phase flow: 1) Concept Proposal, where applicants submit an initial project idea; 2) CDFW Review, during which staff may consult with applicants for clarification; 3) Funding Decision, involving either an executive or selection panel review; 4) Grant Agreement, where successful applicants work with CDFW to finalize the terms; and 5) Project Start, which begins after the grant agreement is signed. Beginning in Fiscal Year 2022-23, over $200 million in funds have been allocated to support these initiatives, with particular focus on drought resilience, climate impacts, and habitat restoration. Key focus areas for funding include projects that address drought resilience by enhancing riparian and aquatic habitats, reconnecting floodplains, and improving ecological functions. Another priority is addressing climate impacts through projects that restore degraded water and habitat conditions. Wetlands and Mountain Meadows restoration, including non-lethal beaver management, also receive funding. For wildlife corridors, CDFW is supporting projects that enhance connectivity, in line with state conservation strategies. Proposition 1 funds projects that implement California’s environmental strategies, such as the Sacramento Valley Salmon Resiliency Strategy and the Delta Plan. These projects are funded through the Watershed Restoration Grant Program and the Delta Water Quality and Ecosystem Restoration Grant Program. Proposition 68 focuses on river and stream restoration, Southern California Steelhead habitat, and broader fish and wildlife habitat improvements. To apply, interested applicants must submit concept proposals through CDFW’s WebGrants portal. After review, CDFW will provide feedback, and applicants may be invited to submit more detailed, supplemental applications for certain funding sources. Consultations with CDFW staff are available to help guide applicants before submitting their proposals. Once funding is awarded, CDFW will work with grantees to finalize agreements and initiate projects. Eligible applicants include tribes, nonprofit organizations, and public agencies, though other entities can participate as subcontractors. Proposals will be reviewed and awarded on an ongoing basis, with potential funding decisions being made monthly for specific projects related to drought and climate resilience. This ongoing application process offers flexibility for applicants to continuously submit innovative and impactful restoration project ideas.