Great Lakes Restoration Initiative: Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program

The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative: Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program is a grant opportunity that aims to conserve and protect community forests and open spaces in the Lake Superior Basin of Michigan and Wisconsin. The program is open to federally recognized Indian Tribes, local government entities, and nonprofit organizations that are qualified to acquire and manage land. The grants will support the fee simple acquisition of private forest land that is threatened by conversion to non-forest uses and provides community benefits, including economic, environmental, educational, and recreational benefits. The program also focuses on protecting, enhancing, and increasing the resilience of habitats necessary for sustaining native aquatic and terrestrial species important to the Lake Superior ecosystem. Some key aspects of this opportunity include: • Eligible applicants include federally recognized Indian Tribes, local government entities, and nonprofit organizations • Grants will support the acquisition of private forest land that is at least five acres in size • Projects must demonstrate exceptional public benefits, meaningful community engagement, and strategic contributions to terrestrial habitat connectivity • The program has an estimated funding of $3,500,000, with an award ceiling of $1,000,000 • The application deadline is December 8, 2026