Forest Legacy Program Capacity and Project Development 2026

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is offering the Forest Legacy Program Capacity and Project Development 2026 grant to increase organizational capacity and support the development of future forest conservation projects. Funding is limited to due‑diligence and preparatory activities for future conservation easement or fee‑acquisition projects, including market analysis, title work, surveys, GIS mapping, environmental assessments, management plans, staff time, and related travel and supplies. Eligible applicants are nonprofit, land‑trust, or other conservation‑oriented legal entities; private businesses are excluded. Projects must be located within or adjacent to a Forest Legacy Area on non‑federal forest lands. Up to $500,000 is available, with 4‑10 awards ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 each. Reimbursement is the funding method, and no matching funds are required. The application window opens 9/8/2026 and closes 9/30/2026; awards are expected in October 2026 with performance through 6/30/2028. • Eligible activities: due‑diligence, appraisal, title reports, mineral reports, surveys, GIS, easement drafting, Phase 1 EA, management plans, staff labor, travel, supplies. • Eligible applicants: nonprofits, land trusts, conservation organizations (legal entities). • Eligible lands: ≥10 % native tree cover, ≥75 % forestland, capable of timber, grazing, wildlife, water‑quality, recreation benefits. • Funding: $500 k total; $50‑150 k per award; 4‑10 awards; federal reimbursement; no match required. • Timeline: Apply 9/8‑9/30/2026; award announced Oct 2026; performance ends 6/30/2028.