The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has announced a significant new funding opportunity aimed at bolstering forest resilience across the state. With $120 million now available, the department is seeking applicants for landscape-scale forest management and restoration projects designed to mitigate the impacts of catastrophic wildfires, drought, and pest mortality.
The initiative aims to improve ecosystem health while delivering long-term climate benefits, including increased carbon storage and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
“Healthy forests are already delivering real results on the ground—lower wildfire intensity, safer communities, improved wildlife habitat, and stronger natural systems that store carbon and withstand climate stress,” said CAL FIRE Deputy Director of Natural Resource Management, Eric Huff.
“By investing in science-based forest management including reforestation, CAL FIRE continues to accelerate the pace and scale of work needed to protect California’s landscapes and ensure our forests remain resilient for generations to come.”
The program is open to a wide range of applicants, including tribes, local, state, and federal government organizations, nonprofit organizations, and other eligible entities that can demonstrate strong ecological outcomes, cross-boundary collaboration, and active community engagement.
Since 2017, CAL FIRE has awarded more than $750 million in Forest Health grants, directly supporting the restoration and replanting of California’s forests to protect communities and support rural jobs.
The $120 million funding package is split between two sources: $55 million from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and $65 million from Proposition 4 (California Climate Bond). While both sources share the same timeline and application process, CAL FIRE notes that applicants wishing to be considered for both must submit separate applications due to differing requirements.
To streamline the process and reduce the burden on applicants, CAL FIRE is introducing a two-step application process for the first time.
Concept Proposals: Accepted from March 2 through March 30, 2026.
Full Applications: Following the initial review, the most competitive proposals will be invited to submit full applications during a second phase.
CAL FIRE has made a virtual pre-recorded workshop available to guide potential applicants through the grant process and specific requirements. Interested parties are encouraged to visit the Forest Health webpage to view the workshop.
Those with questions regarding the solicitation may reach out to program staff via email at [email protected]. To view previously awarded projects and learn more about the program’s impact, visit the CAL FIRE Awarded Grant Projects Dashboard.
