Forestland Preservation-Washington Wildlife and Recreation Grant Program (WA)

The Forestland Preservation Grant Program in Washington provides financial support for the acquisition of conservation easements to protect forests from development. This initiative, part of the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program, aims to maintain timber production while promoting ecological benefits and public access. Eligible applicants can request funding up to $500,000 for projects that ensure sustainable forest management and habitat enhancement, contributing to the conservation of vital natural resources.

Forestland Preservation Grant Program
The forestland preservation grant program provides funding to lease or buy voluntary land preservation agreements (also called conservation easements) for forests to ensure the lands remain available for timber production in the future.
The program is part of the larger Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program, which was created in 1990 to buy land for outdoor recreation and wildlife conservation. In 2016, the state Legislature expanded the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program to include preservation of forestland with the goal of supporting working forests that also provide connectivity, habitat enhancement, sustainable ecological benefits, and public access.
Typical Projects
Buying a conservation easement or lease for a forest threatened with developmentIn conjunction with a conservation easement or lease, restoring stream corridors to support clean water and fish habitat
Funding
Grant applicants may request any amount up to $500,000.