CAL FIRE announced on Mar. 12 that it is accepting applications for the Forest Health Program Grants for Fiscal Year 2025–26. The program aims to support large-scale forest management projects across California, focusing on improving forest resilience, reducing wildfire risk, and enhancing climate and watershed benefits.
The initiative addresses growing threats to California’s forests from wildfires, drought, pests, and changing climate conditions. CAL FIRE said it is seeking projects that promote integrated treatments and partnerships to improve forest health, protect water resources, increase carbon storage over time, and lower wildfire risks.
Eligible activities include forest fuels reduction through thinning or fuel break creation, prescribed fire and cultural burning, reforestation after wildfires, pest management treatments, biomass utilization with wood product market development, restoration of watersheds and meadows, as well as tribal land stewardship practices. Funding will be available through two sources: Proposition 4 – California Climate Bond for restoration and wildfire resilience projects; and California Climate Investments – Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund for projects that cut greenhouse gas emissions while increasing carbon storage. Applicants must submit separate proposals if they wish to be considered under both funding streams.
Key deadlines are March 30, 2026 for pre-applications (concept proposals) and June 8, 2026 for full proposals by invitation. Grant sizes typically range from $1 million to $8 million per project with completion required by January 31, 2031. Cost sharing or matching funds are encouraged.
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources secures funding through public contributions to support its programs according to the official website. The organization promotes sustainable practices aimed at strengthening resilient ecosystems and economic vitality according to the official website. It utilizes nine research and extension centers as laboratories representing California’s diverse ecosystems according to the official website.
UC Agriculture and Natural Resources has gained recognition for linking research with community needs according to the official website, manages Cooperative Extension services within the University of California system according to the official website, conducts more than 33,800 educational events annually with over 18,400 volunteers engaged in its initiatives according to the official website, and extends university research statewide through educational programs in all counties while supporting environmental stewardship via workshops and partnerships according to the official website.
The Forest Health Program Grant Guidelines provide further details on eligibility requirements and application procedures.