California Forest Improvement Program Grant

California Forest Improvement Program Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE)
Amount: Up to US $50,000
Last Updated: February 13, 2026

Summary

The California Forest Improvement Program (CFIP) promotes sustainable management of forest lands through financial assistance for various activities like forest management planning and habitat improvement. Aimed at both private and public landowners, the program supports investments in reforestation, soil and water quality, and overall forest health. Each solicitation period provides between $1 to $2 million to aid in these efforts, ensuring that California's forests remain productive and beneficial for future generations.

Overview

NOTE: CFIP solicitation periods close on the dates listed below. January 2ndApril 1st October 1st California Forest Improvement Program The purpose of the California Forest Improvement Program (CFIP) is to encourage private and public investment in, and improved management of, California forest lands and resources. This focus is to ensure adequate high quality timber supplies, related employment and other economic benefits, and the protection, maintenance, and enhancement of a productive and stable forest resource system for the benefit of present and future generations. The program scope includes the improvement of all forest resources including fish and wildlife habitat, and soil and water quality. Cost-share assistance is provided to private and public ownerships containing 20 to 5,000 acres of forest land. Cost-shared activities include: Preparation of a Forest Management Plan by a Registered Professional Forester (RPF) RPF Supervision of the following:ReforestationSite Preparation Trees and Planting Tree SheltersStand ImprovementPre-commercial Thinning or Release Pruning Follow-up (includes mechanical, herbicide and/or slash disposal follow-up)Forestland conservation practices/fish and wildlife habitat improvement Funding CFIP will be releasing approximately $1 to $2 million per period (every other month).

Eligibility

We've imported the main document for this grant to give you an overview. You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. To be eligible for CFIP, landowners must own at least 20 acres of forestland but not more than 5,000 acres of forestland in California. The 20-acre minimum does not apply to forestland zoned timber production zone.Land must be zoned for uses compatible with forest resource management. Land in Agricultural Preserve (Williamson Act) or Timberland Production Zone (TPZ) qualifies. Properties with conservation easements or zoned for residential and/or commercial development may be eligible if the easements or zoning place no restriction on forest management practices.

Ineligibility

Broadcast/controlled/cultural burning is not eligible for CFIP cost share