Search Through Grants for Land Conservation in California in the U.S.

Watershed Programs - California

Watersheds impact every community; every town, city, and farm and provide a vital resource for all living things to survive and thrive. All watersheds are interconnected, creating a land-water system that conveys water to its final destination—a larger stream, an inland lake, a wetland, an estuary.

NRCS Watershed Programs provides technical and financial assistance to local government agencies, tribal organizations and other eligible sponsors, to help communities implement conservation practices that address watershed resource concerns.

Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP)

The EWP Program offers technical and financial assistance to help local communities relieve imminent threats to life and property caused by floods, fires, windstorms and other natural disasters that impair a watershed. EWP does not require a disaster declaration by federal or state government officials for program assistance to begin. The NRCS State Conservationist can declare a local watershed emergency and initiate EWP program assistance in cooperation with an eligible sponsor (see the Eligibility section below). NRCS will not provide funding for activities undertaken by a sponsor prior to the signing of a cooperative agreement between NRCS and the sponsor.

NRCS offers financial and technical assistance for various activities under the EWP Program, including:

• Remove debris from stream channels, road culverts and bridges;
• reshape and protect eroded streambanks;
• correct damaged or destroyed drainage facilities;
• establish vegetative cover on critically eroding lands;
• repair levees and structures;
• repair certain conservation practices, and
• purchase of EWP Buyouts. 

Locally-Led Solutions

All EWP projects must have a sponsor and demonstrate that they reduce threats to life and property; be economically, environmentally and socially sound; and must be designed to acceptable engineering standards.

Sponsors can apply for EWP Program assistance directly to NRCS while public and private landowners can apply for this assistance through a local sponsor. Landowners do not need a sponsor to apply for assistance through EWP-floodplain easements.

Recovery Projects

Recovery projects begin with a local sponsor or legal subdivision of state or tribal government. Interested public and private landowners must work through a sponsor.

Floodplain Easement Option

In some situations, landowners can directly apply for assistance through a floodplain easement at the local NRCS office when project funding for floodplain easements becomes available. States will hold a signup period for the impacted communities and the local NRCS offices will publicize that information in the affected communities.

Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Grant Program

The Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program was created by AB109, which amended the Budget Act of 2017 to provide local assistance through the Wildlife Conservation Board for conservation projects focusing on resilience to projected climate impacts. The initial $20 million in funding through this program was payable from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF).

The intent of this grant program is to fund projects that provide climate adaptation and resilience on California’s natural and working lands. These projects must be consistent with the State’s climate adaptation strategy (Safeguarding California Plan), contribute to the carbon sequestration goals of AB 32, and support WCB’s Strategic Plan. In addition, projects will be consistent with other statewide plans and priorities, including the California Water Action Plan and California State Wildlife Action Plan 2015 Update.

Program funding is directed toward projects that:

• Protect and restore ecosystems on natural and working lands to provide climate change adaptation and resilience for wildlife.
• Assist natural and working lands managers in implementing practices that provide climate adaptation and resilience.
• Increase carbon sequestration in natural and working lands, and provide additional social, economic, and environmental benefits, or "co-benefits".

The Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy issues grants to public agencies, nonprofits, special districts, cities and tribes for projects that support watershed health, strategic land conservation, vibrant recreation and tourism, resilient communities, and wildfire recovery. The projects that we fund throughout our service area are developed by our community partners with assistance of local CVMC staff. Our holistic approach yields projects that address local needs, align with our strategic plan, and address state priorities to reduce greenhouse gas emission, improve habitat, and protect water supply infrastructure.

Proposition 68

The objectives of the California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection and Outdoor Access for all Act of 2018 are to expand public access to safe parks, wildlife preserves, trails and recreation areas, mitigate the effects of climate change and encourage water conservation and drought preparedness.

Coastal Conservancy Grants

Each year, the Coastal Conservancy issues millions of dollars in grants for projects that restore and protect the California coast, expand public access to it, and enhance its resilience to climate change.

The State of California has made an unprecedented investment in the resilience and accessibility of the coast. As a result, the Coastal Conservancy has significant funding available for projects that benefit public access, natural resources, working lands, and climate resiliency at the coast, coastal watersheds, and the San Francisco Bay.

Ongoing Funding Opportunities

Most Conservancy grants are awarded through a rolling pre-application solicitation. This includes Climate Ready, Wildfire Resilience, and all regional grant programs.

The application is a two-step process, though all applicants are encouraged to request a technical assistance consultation with the Regional Manager covering your project area to discuss project eligibility before beginning the application process. The first step in the application process is to submit a pre-application. If a pre-application meets the Conservancy’s Eligibility Criteria (found here) and there is available Conservancy funding for the project, applicants will be invited to submit a full application.

What We Fund

The Coastal Conservancy funds a wide variety of projects along the California coast, San Francisco Bay, and in coastal watersheds to increase availability of beaches, parks and trails for the public, protect and restore natural lands and wildlife habitat, preserve working lands, and increase community resilience to the impacts of climate change.

The Conservancy will fund most stages of a project including: pre-project feasibility studies, property acquisition, project planning including community involvement, design, environmental review, permitting, construction, and project-related monitoring. We do not fund operation and maintenance activities.

Available SF Bay Area Program funding pots are now mainly focused on projects that use nature-based approaches to address sea level rise. We are also coordinating support for Adaptation Projects with fellow state agencies; refer to this guide, and happy to schedule a discussion to find the best fit for your project.

The Conservancy uses Project Selection Criteria to communicate priorities to potential applicants and project partners, to evaluate grant applications, and to select projects for funding. Multi-benefit projects, projects that serve disadvantaged communities, and projects that advance the objectives in our 2023 – 2027 Strategic Plan and regional and statewide plans will receive higher priority for funding.

Grant Amounts

There are no maximum or minimum grant amounts for this funding; however, it is anticipated that most grants will be between $200,000 and $5,000,000.

The Mojave and Colorado Deserts are considered globally significant areas characterized by supporting a high diversity of plants and wildlife as well as providing numerous ecosystem services for humans, native plants, and wildlife. This region is the ancestral homeland of tribal communities, and it also provides world-class public access and recreational opportunities. As a result of efforts undertaken by individuals and entities with a strong interest in protecting the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, Assembly Bill 1183, now known as the California Desert Conservation Act, was approved by Governor Gavin Newsom on September 28, 2021. Passage of the California Desert Conservation Act established the Desert Conservation Program under the administration of the Wildlife Conservation Board. The Desert Conservation Program includes the following actions:

• Protect, preserve, and restore the natural, cultural, and physical resources of the portions of the Mojave and Colorado Deserts region in California through the acquisition, restoration, and management of lands.
• Promote the protection and restoration of the biological diversity of the region.
• Provide for resilience in the region to climate change.
• Protect and improve air quality and water resources within the region.
• Undertake efforts to enhance public use and enjoyment of lands owned by the public.

The Wildlife Conservation Board accepts pre-applications for acquisition, restoration, and management projects on a continuous basis. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to:

• Acquisition of land, especially parcels that are part of a wildlife movement corridor, contain water sources, have sacred or culturally significant tribal sites, protect listed species, or provide public access
• Restoration of riparian and upland vegetation
• Invasive plant removal and control.
• Seed collection, processing, and propagation
• Scientific studies, especially those that help aid in the recovery of listed species.

Background

The Forest Conservation Program (Program) was created on November 7, 2006 with the Safe Drinking Water, Water Quality and Supply, Flood Control, River and Coastal Protection Bond Act of 2006 (Proposition 84). That Act charged the Board to develop a grant program and “…promote the ecological integrity and economic stability of California’s diverse native forests for all their public benefits through forest conservation, preservation, and restoration of productive managed forest lands, forest reserve areas, redwood forests and other forest types, including the conservation of water resources and natural habitat for native fish and wildlife and plants found on these lands” (PRC section 75055a).

Additional funding for the Forest Conservation Program was provided by the California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and Outdoor Access For All Act of 2018 (Proposition 68) which authorized the Board to advance “…protection, restoration, and improvement of upper watershed lands in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Mountains, including forest lands, meadows, wetlands, chaparral, and riparian habitat, in order to protect and improve water supply and water quality, improve forest health, reduce wildfire danger, mitigate the effects of wildfires on water quality and supply, increase flood protection, or to protect or restore riparian or aquatic resources” (PRC section 80132d).

The Program supports planning, acquisition, and restoration projects throughout California’s forests, consistent with the Board's Strategic Plan.

Project Types

Project examples include, but are not limited to:

• Meadow restoration
• Forest thinning (hazard fuel reduction)
• Post-fire restoration
• Aspen stand enhancement

Purpose

The Forest Conservation Program supports planning, acquisition, and restoration projects throughout California’s forests, consistent with the Board's Strategic Plan.

Our Mission

Established in 1992 by Lisa and Douglas Goldman, the Lisa and Douglas Goldman Fund is a private foundation committed to providing support for charitable organizations that enhance our society.  As natives of San Francisco, the Goldmans place a high priority on projects that have an impact upon the San Francisco community.  Within its grantmaking areas, the Fund strives to be responsive and flexible as well as to make informed and responsible grants to support qualified projects.  We invite you to review the Lisa and Douglas Goldman Fund’s newly stated Interests and Priorities.

Interests & Priorities - Environment

Environment

• Goal: Promote industry practices that mitigate climate change and protect natural resources.
  • Geographic Area:
    • Projects that are implemented nationally and/or in multiple states.
      • This program goal does not currently accept applications for projects that are implemented in a single city or state.
  • Strategies:
  • Support sustainable industry practices throughout the lifecycle of products.
  • Influence market shifts toward environmentally-responsible materials and decreased use of harmful chemicals.
• Goal: Advance nature-based solutions to the climate crisis.
  • Geographic Area:
    • Projects that are implemented internationally, nationally and/or in California.
      • This program goal does not currently accept applications for projects that are implemented in a single city or state other than California.
  • Strategies:
    • Protect and conserve ecosystems that sequester carbon, with a special interest in primary forests and engaging Indigenous communities in climate solutions.
• Goal: Reduce local sources of greenhouse gas emissions and help prepare for the impacts of climate change on Bay Area ecosystems.
• Geographic Area: San Francisco Bay Area
• Strategies:
  • Advance responsible land use and transportation policies and practices.
  • Protect natural resources from the effects of climate change.

The Goldman Fund considers requests by invitation only from organizations in the following fields:

• Health & Recreation
• San Francisco Bay Area Institutions & Projects
• Special Projects & Initiatives

Overview

When the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) was created by the Wildlife Conservation Law of 1947, it was authorized to acquire and restore California lands to protect wildlife values and provide wildlife-oriented public access. The Habitat Enhancement and Restoration Program (HERP) was WCB's first program and incorporated all restoration projects until other WCB programs were initiated in 1990.

HERP continues to support a wide variety of restoration projects that fall outside WCB’s other mandated programs. HERP projects are distributed throughout California and all habitat types. Broad categories of HERP projects include, but are not limited to:

• Habitat restoration (e.g., coast, forest, desert, wetland, grassland)
• Wildlife corridors
• Fisheries enhancements (e.g., fish ladders, barrier removal)

Most HERP funding is provided by the Habitat Conservation Fund and various voter-approved bonds.

Our Standard Grant program was established to provide resources for projects and programs that make visible impacts in communities throughout California. Since 2006, these funds have helped construct music facilities, restore historical buildings, preserve and acquire open spaces, protect endangered species, and facilitate the implementation of hundreds of other projects that fit within our areas of funding:

• Ecosystem Conservation
• Projects and programs that focus on the enhancement of habitats in which plants and wildlife thrive. We know that proper conservation and restoration of our ecosystems can only be accomplished when like-minded organizations work together for this common goal
• Historical Landmark Restoration
• Restoration, preservation, or acquisition of projects with historical significance that are 100 years or older, including new construction, enhancements, or improvements to buildings, monuments, landmarks, and documents.
• Music & Visual Arts
• Projects and programs that promote a robust arts community where talented artists can have adequate access to training, working facilities, artist work spaces, and other resources.
• Plant & Wildlife Protection
• Private organizations that desire to see plant and wildlife flourish and that work for the protection and conservation of endangered and threatened species.
• Land Conservation
• Protection and management of land with scenic, agricultural, or cultural values, such as parks, streams, and botanical gardens. We fund non-advocacy organizations with an active membership base that are hands-on and committed.

Our Supplemental Grant program was established to recognize and support community–based organizations whose important programs or projects may not require the resources provided through a Standard Grant. Since 2006, these funds have helped assist successful fundraising events, provide students with educational opportunities, and facilitate the implementation of numerous projects that fit within our areas of funding:

Ecosystem Conservation

It’s up to us to conserve and restore our ecosystems so that plant and wildlife can sustain and thrive

Abundant plant and wildlife populations are dependent on the ecosystems in which they live. Today, these essential habitats – made up of wetlands, estuaries, watersheds, and other sensitive areas – cannot be sustained on their own.

Our Ecosystem Conservation program funds projects and programs that focus on the enhancement of habitats in which plants and wildlife thrive. We know that proper conservation and restoration of our ecosystems can only be accomplished when like-minded organizations work together for this common goal

Historical Landmark Restoration

We must hold hands with the past so that it’s more than a picture; so it becomes a part of who we are and who we will become.

Embedding the traditions of time within architecture, rather than within pictures, provides a more literal preservation of the past. This historical reference gives new generations a better perception of community history and inspiration towards the future.

Our Historical Landmark Restoration program funds the restoration, preservation, or acquisition of projects with historical significance that are 100 years or older, including new construction, enhancements, or improvements to buildings, monuments, landmarks, and documents.

Music & Visual Arts

Music and the arts transcend barriers and provide a common language for us all.

While Music and Visual Arts provide a means for expression, inspiration, cultural awareness, and fulfillment, we must promote the expansion and awareness of music and visual arts in our communities.

Our Music & Visual Arts program funds projects and programs that promote a robust arts community where talented artists can have adequate access to training, working facilities, artist work spaces, and other resources.

Plant & Wildlife Protection

By looking beyond the appearance of plants and wildlife, by studying and discovering them, we learn how to protect them.

Today’s plants and wildlife are confronted with greater challenges than ever before. As a nation, our stewardship of their populations and habitat is critical to the survival of all species.

Our Plant & Wildlife Protection program funds private organizations that desire to see plant and wildlife flourish and that work for the protection and conservation of endangered and threatened species.

Land Conservation

The beauty of open fields and excitement of the outdoors is something we can’t allow our children to miss out on.

We all cherish memories growing up of when we played and hiked through fields, forests, and hillsides, freely enjoying the outdoors. To ensure future generations can make such memories, it’s essential we take appropriate steps to conserve our open spaces.

Our Land Conservation program supports the protection and management of land with scenic, agricultural, or cultural values, such as parks, streams, and botanical gardens. We fund non-advocacy organizations with an active membership base that are hands-on and committed.

Monarch Butterfly and Pollinator Rescue Grant

Overview

The Monarch Butterfly and Pollinator Rescue Program (Program) was created by Assembly Bill 2421(opens in new tab), and signed into law in 2018 becoming effective immediately. The Program was created for the purpose of recovering and sustaining populations of monarch butterflies and other pollinators. To achieve these purposes, the bill authorizes the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) to provide grants and technical assistance, as prescribed. The bill requires WCB to develop and adopt project selection and evaluation guidelines, in coordination with the Department of Food and Agriculture, before disbursing these grants. The bill establishes the Monarch Butterfly and Pollinator Rescue Fund Account in the State Treasury, and authorizes expenditure of moneys in the account, upon appropriation by the Legislature, for purposes of the Program.

The Enabling Statute created the Monarch Butterfly and Pollinator Rescue Fund Account (Fund) in the State Treasury. Monies in the Fund became available, upon appropriation, for the purposes of the Program including:

• Provide grants for the restoration or enhancement of California prairie and other appropriate breeding habitat for monarch butterflies and pollinators on private and public lands.
• Provide grants for the restoration or enhancement of overwintering monarch butterfly habitat on private and public lands.
• Provide technical assistance to grant recipients, including farmers and ranchers, regarding restoration and enhancement of breeding, overwintering, and other appropriate monarch butterfly habitat.
• Provide grants for seasonal or temporary habitat improvements.
• Provide block grants in which suballocations are made by the grant recipient, with the approval of the Wildlife Conservation Board.

Non-Bond Priorities Grant Programs

In certain years, the annual state budget has allocated General Funds directly to the RMC. These funds have been incorporated into the Non-Bond Priority Grant Program.

Climate Resilience Grant Program (CA)

These funds will build community resilience and capacity where resources are most needed. Investments will support multi-benefit and nature-based solutions, which includes funding to support climate change impacts on fish and wildlife, habitat restoration, and activities that accelerate climate smart management of California’s natural and working lands and help meet the State’s GHG reduction goals.

Multi-benefit projects and nature-based solutions focused on resilient urban/non-urban forests and landscapes will be prioritized. As part of Executive Order N-82-20, this initiative sets California on the path to conserving 30% of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030.

Funding will be available for projects that support or promote climate resilience, wildfire prevention, community access, and natural resource protection.

Funding

RMC typically awards grant funds with a budget range between $300,000 - $2,000,000.

The Stream Flow Enhancement Program (SFEP) funds projects that enhance stream flows across the state of California. The SFEP defines enhanced streamflow to mean: a change in the amount, timing, and/or quality of water flowing down a stream, or a portion of a stream, to benefit fish and wildlife. Funded projects are also consistent with the objectives and actions outlined in the California Water Action Plan, with the primary focus on enhancing flow in streams that support anadromous fish; support special-status, threatened, endangered, or at-risk species; or provide resilience to climate change.

California voters approved the Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014 (Proposition 1) to provide funding to implement the three objectives of the California Water Action Plan, namely: 1) more reliable water supplies, 2) the restoration of important species and habitat, and 3) a more resilient and sustainably managed water resources system that can better withstand inevitable and unforeseen pressures in the coming decades. Proposition 1 authorized the Legislature to appropriate $200 million to the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) to fund projects that result in enhanced stream flows and which WCB distributes through a competitive basis via the SFEP.

In 2021, the California State legislature passed Senate Bill 170 the Budget Act of 2021 (SB 170). SB 170 allocated $100 million dollars from the state general fund to the WCB to fund projects to enhance instream flow for the purposes of protecting fish and wildlife.

The process, procedures, and criteria through which WCB administers the SFEP are described in the .General Grant Guidelines (PDF).

Project Examples

Examples of project types (should not be viewed as exhaustive lists of eligible project types):

• Water Transactions (refer to California Water Code section 79709)
  • Acquisition of water or water rights from willing sellers, or acquisition of land that includes water rights or contractual rights to water
  • Short- or long-term water transfers and leases
  • Water rights instream dedication pursuant to CWC section 1707
  • Forbearance agreements
  • Conservation easements
• Water conservation projects (actions that provide more efficient use of water diverted or reduces the amount diverted from a stream, resulting in enhanced stream flow) coupled with adequate long term (≥20 years) protections for the conserved water
  • Off-channel water storage
  • Changes in the timing or rate of diversion or source water supply
  • Irrigation ditch lining or piping
  • Stock-water systems
  • Agricultural tailwater recovery/management systems
• Changing points of diversion
• Groundwater storage and conjunctive use
• Reservoir operations both at existing and new storage sites
• Habitat restoration projects that enhance stream flow and improve aquatic and riparian conditions
  • Wet meadow restoration
  • Forest management practices (e.g., thinning)
  • Reconnecting flood flows with restored flood plains
  • Eradication of invasive plant species with high water use rates, relative to native plant species
• Acquisition of land or interests in land that lead to a direct and measurable enhancement to stream flow, improving upon existing flow conditions
• Stream flow gauging
• Scientific studies that assess effectiveness of previously implemented projects and/or inform design and implementation of future stream flow enhancement project(s)

Purpose

The principal goal of the Conservancy's Prop 68 grant program is to support purposes set forth in the Conservancy's governing statutes and strategic plan, including stewarding Conservancy lands and protecting Basin communities from wildfire; restoring the resilience of Basin forests and watersheds; providing public access and outdoor recreation for all communities; and fostering Basinwide climate adaptation and sustainable communities.

Description

The California Tahoe Conservancy (Conservancy) leads California's efforts to restore and enhance the extraordinary natural and recreational resources of the Lake Tahoe Basin.

Proposition 68 allocates $27 million directly to the Conservancy for the purposes set forth in its governing statutes and strategic plan, including stewarding Conservancy lands and protecting Basin communities from wildfire; restoring the resilience of Basin forests and watersheds; providing public access and outdoor recreation for all communities; and fostering Basinwide climate adaptation and sustainable communities. This includes advancing the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program. In particular, Proposition 68 encourages the acquisiition of open space and creation of urban greenway corridors, and, to the extent possible, increasing the diversity and inclusion of communities that benefit from the bond funding. The Conservancy allocated $5 million to local assistance grants.

Access to nature contributes to our sense of community, connection to wild places, and desire to be stewards of the land. Conservation starts with individuals, families, and communities finding value in natural and wild lands.

The Public Access Program is one of the original Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) programs established in 1947. Initially the Public Access Program worked with California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) to support projects focused on the protection and development of public access areas and the promotion of hunting and fishing opportunities. Over time, the WCB's authority expanded to new partners, and today the Public Access Program provides planning and implementation funds to support wildlife-oriented recreation opportunities. Fundable activities and infrastructure include but are not limited to: multi-lingual interpretive signs, trails, ADA parking and restrooms, community outreach, and development of interpretive programs.

Priorities

Wildlife-oriented Recreation

The Public Access Program prioritizes projects providing public access for non-consumptive wildlife-related recreational activities. Projects should promote wildlife experiences and opportunities.

Hunting and Fishing Access

The Public Access Program prioritizes projects providing hunting and fishing access. Projects should enhance, improve, or construct facilities that provide hunting and fishing opportunities.

Outdoors for All

The Public Access Program prioritizes projects that further the goals of the California Natural Resource Agency's Outdoors for All Initiative by providing equitable access to parks and nature. Projects should enhance access for underserved communities and include meaningful collaboration with California Native American tribes.

Background

The mission of CDFW is to manage California’s diverse fish, wildlife, and plant resources, and the habitats upon which they depend, for their ecological values and for their use and enjoyment by the public. CDFW funds various restoration grants throughout the state. Fish and Game Code Section 1501 et seq., authorizes CDFW to grant funds for fish and wildlife habitat preservation, restoration, and enhancement to assist it in meeting its duty to preserve, protect, and restore fish and wildlife. 

All projects shall provide one or more of the following benefits:

• Protect or enhance biodiversity;
• Climate change resiliency and connectivity;
• Support of the State Wildlife Action Plan priority habitats;
• Conserve or enhance working landscapes;
• Conserve or enhance water-related projects; and/or
• Enhance public access.

Restoration Grant Programs: Wetlands and Mountain Meadows Restoration

Senate Bill 155 amended the Budget Act of 2021 to provide the allocation of up to $54 million to Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) set aside in Fiscal Years 2022-23 and 2023-24 for projects that restore or enhance wetlands and watershed ecosystems and provide co-benefits, consistent with the Natural and Working Lands Climate Smart Strategy and Pathways to 30x30.The Program also funds projects to support CDFW's beaver restoration objectives, in coordination with CDFW’s Statewide Human-Wildlife Conflict Program, including providing non-lethal alternatives (e.g., deterrent tools) for landowners to abate or prevent property damage caused by natural beaver activity to promote coexistence with beavers.

The California Fish and Game Code Section 13100 establishes the county fish and wildlife propagation fund to be expended for the protection, conservation, propagation, and preservation of fish and wildlife, under the direction of the Board of Supervisors (BOS), pursuant to the Fish and Game Code. Funds are received through various fines. The BOS established the Fish and Wildlife Commission (Commission) to advise and make recommendations to the BOS and the Sonoma County Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer (Agricultural Commissioner) on the expenditure of funds that benefit fish and wildlife in Sonoma County1. As the grant funds provided under this Code constitute public funds, the Commission has produced these guidelines to provide information to the public related to how the Commission maintains and distributes these funds. Any deviation from these guidelines must be approved by the Commission and the Agricultural Commissioner.

Sonoma County Fish and Wildlife Commission Grant Program

California Fish and Wildlife Code Section 13100 requires that funds deposited into the Sonoma County Fish and Wildlife Special Revenue Fund be distributed to deserving projects that benefit fish and wildlife. In order to be considered, project activities must be limited to one of the following:

• Improvement of fish or wildlife habitat.
• Public education relating to the scientific principles of fish and wildlife conservation or operation of nature study facilities.
• Purchase and/or maintenance of materials, supplies, or equipment for either Fish and Wildlife’s ownership and/or use by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in the normal performance of its responsibilities.
• Scientific fish and wildlife research conducted by institutions of higher learning, qualified researchers, or governmental agencies, if approved by California Department of Fish and Wildlife Region 3 representative.
• Temporary emergency treatment and care of injured or orphaned wildlife.
• Temporary treatment and care of wildlife confiscated by Fish and Wildlife as evidence.
• Breeding, raising, purchasing or releasing fish or wildlife, which are to be released upon approval of Fish and Wildlife pursuant to Sections 6400 and 6401 onto land or into waters of local, state or federal agencies or onto land or into waters open to be public.
• Construction, maintenance, and operation of public hatchery facilities.
• Predator control actions for the benefit of fish or wildlife following certification in writing by Fish and Wildlife that proposed actions will significantly benefit a particular wildlife species.
• Contributions to a secret witness program for the purpose of facilitating enforcement of this code and regulations adopted pursuant to this code, as approved by Fish and Wildlife.
• Other expenditures, approved by Fish and Wildlife, for the purpose of protecting, conserving, propagating, and preserving fish and wildlife.

The Sonoma County Fish and Wildlife Commission reserves the right to schedule an on-site inspection of the project during the course of the project term. Such a visit will be scheduled well in advance.

Criteria for Grant Evaluation

In total, the Fish and Game Code establishes seven main categories for grant making, with several miscellaneous allowable areas. The Commission will decide which grants to fund based on the merits of each project, as indicated in the grant application.

In particular, the Commission will assess:

• Significance and lasting effect on the protection of fish and wildlife,
• Conservation,
• Propagation and preservation of fish and wildlife,
• Time sensitivity, and
• Education.

In addition, the Commission has established three categories of grant areas to help evaluate applications and express relative priorities when evaluating grant proposals, as shown below. The practice of the Commission is to discourage the inclusion of administration and/or labor costs. The Commission retains the right of ownership of any equipment purchased as it deems appropriate, and requires all applications to address equipment ownership in their application. When cost effective, the Commission will require applicants to rent equipment.

Category 1

: applications consist of the improvement of fish and wildlife habitat, including, but not limited to, construction of fish screens, weirs and ladders; drainage or other watershed improvements; gravel and rock removal or placement; construction of irrigation and water distribution systems; earthwork and grading; fencing; planting trees and other vegetation management; and removal of barriers to the migration of fish and wildlife. These projects are considered to be the highest priority of the Commission.

Category 2

: applications consist of the purchase and maintenance of materials, supplies, or equipment for law enforcement use related to fish and wildlife protection and conservation; and predator control actions for the benefit of fish or wildlife following certification in writing that the proposed actions will significantly benefit a particular wildlife species.

Category 3

: applications consist of public education relating to the scientific principles of fish and wildlife conservation, consisting of supervised formal instruction carried out pursuant to a planned curriculum and aids to education such as literature, audio and video recordings, training models, and nature study facilities.

: applications consist of scientific fish and wildlife research conducted by institutions of higher learning, qualified researchers, or governmental agencies, as approved by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

: applications consist of breeding, raising, purchasing, or releasing fish and wildlife which are to be released upon approval of Department of Fish and Wildlife pursuant to Sections 6400 and 6401 onto land or into waters of local, state, or federal agencies, or onto land or into waters open to the public; and construction, maintenance, and operation of public hatchery facilities.

: applications consist of temporary emergency treatment and care of injured or orphaned wildlife or of wildlife confiscated by the Department of Fish and Wildlife as evidence.

: the Commission may provide up to five scholarships with a maximum dollar amount totaling $5,000.00. This dollar amount may be adjusted with approval of the Commission and Agricultural Commissioner.

expenditures may be approved for reasonable administrative expenditures, which may include office items, printing and postage, commissioner travel expense, and other various expenses. The Commission elects to hold an outreach and educational event for stakeholders. The budget for this event will be recommended by the Commissioner and approved by the Agricultural Commissioner, up to a maximum of $3,500.00.

Contributions to a secret witness program for the purpose of facilitating enforcement of this code and regulations adopted pursuant to this code.

Costs incurred by the district attorney or city attorney in investigating and prosecuting civil and criminal actions for violations of this code, as approved by the department.

Background

The mission of CDFW is to manage California’s diverse fish, wildlife, and plant resources, and the habitats upon which they depend, for their ecological values and for their use and enjoyment by the public. CDFW funds various restoration grants throughout the state. Fish and Game Code Section 1501 et seq. authorizes CDFW to grant funds for fish and wildlife habitat preservation, restoration, and enhancement to assist it in meeting its duty to preserve, protect, and restore fish and wildlife.

All projects shall provide one or more of the following benefits:

• Protect or enhance biodiversity;
• Climate change resiliency and connectivity;
• Support of the State Wildlife Action Plan priority habitats;
• Conserve or enhance working landscapes;
• Conserve or enhance water-related projects; and/or
• Enhance public access.

Wetlands and Mountain Meadows Restoration 

Senate Bill 155 amended the Budget Act of 2021 to provide the allocation of up to $54 million to Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) set aside in Fiscal Years 2022-23 and 2023-24 for projects that restore or enhance wetlands and watershed ecosystems and provide co-benefits, consistent with the Natural and Working Lands Climate Smart Strategy and Pathways to 30x30.

The Program also funds projects to support CDFW's beaver restoration objectives, in coordination with CDFW’s Statewide Human-Wildlife Conflict Program, including providing non-lethal alternatives (e.g., deterrent tools) for landowners to abate or prevent property damage caused by natural beaver activity to promote coexistence with beavers. 

The Foundation embraces the protection of biodiversity as its overarching priority.

Frank Weeden, the Foundation’s founder and original benefactor, established the Weeden Foundation to address the impact of growing human populations and overuse of natural resources on the biological fabric of the planet. Since his death in 1984, the Foundation has helped preserve more than 6 million acres of biologically important habitat worldwide and provided financing for the first debt-for-nature swap in Bolivia in 1992, a strategy that is now widely used by international conservation organizations. Program efforts have supported projects in environmentally sensitive regions of the western United States, Alaska, Russia, Bolivia, Chile, Peru, Columbia, Ecuador, Belize, Namibia, Mexico, and various Caribbean nations.

Focus Areas

On a more general scale the Foundation supports the following focus areas.

Bird Conservation

Our goal in the Bird Conservation program area is to conserve wild birds and their habitats throughout the Americas. In particular we seek to fund grantees that work to prevent bird species extinctions and to prevent declining populations of bird species from becoming endangered. We specifically focus on protecting and restoring public and private bird habitat and we assist in acquiring land for threatened bird species. Finally we support protection of bird migration corridors in North and South America.

Systemic Support program at the U.S. national policy level for wildlife corridors, the Endangered Species Act, and additional wilderness designation.

Our goal in Systemic Support is to improve the effectiveness of environmental efforts through specialized services. Specific objectives include:

• support the Endangered Species Act through litigation, lobbying, grassroots campaigns and public education generally,
• promote organizations providing support for groups engaged in wilderness protection, land conservation, endangered species protection, wildlife corridor issues, and management of public lands, an
• improve federal and state support for environmentally sustainable practices, wilderness designations, and wildlife corridors. 

Global Biodiversity

Our goal in Global Biodiversity is to support campaigns and/or groups in biodiversity hotspots. Specific objectives are to

• protect global temperate rainforests,
• support creation of wildlife corridors,
• land acquisition and protection for endangered species and,
• support projects that involve indigenous peoples in the process and stewardship of conservation projects.

Environmental Education

The Foundation’s Environment Education program area focuses on supporting grantees that will provide future leaders with the tools to effect environmental policies. These policies complement the other grantees of the Foundation including biodiversity and habitat protection. Sustainable environmental policies must include both immediate actions as well as education to anticipate and to prevent future environmental impact.

Marine Wildlife Conservation

The Marine Wildlife Conservation Program Area focuses on helping to protect endangered marine species in the Americas through research, advocacy, policy change, and habitat conservation.

To address the adverse impact of economic and human population growth on biodiversity, the Foundation’s grantmaking includes both Consumption and Population programs.

The Foundation’s Sustainable Consumption program currently focuses on promoting greater use of environmental paper. Grantmaking in this area aims to broaden the market for environmental papers and packaging through markets campaigns, shareholder activism, consumer-targeted education, and dialogue with the corporate sector. This year we have expanded our packaging program to include efforts to reduce plastics in the waste stream, through strategies such as eliminating single use plastic disposables by promoting reusable packaging for grocery stores, take-out, and delivery.

The Foundation’s International Population program area is focused on reducing population growth rates in countries recognized for their rich biodiverse landscapes and that have a total fertility rate exceeding replacement levels. To achieve this goal, the Foundation funds groups that facilitate initiatives related to family planning, women’s education and women’s empowerment in countries with such rich and recognized biodiversity. The Foundation also supports advocacy efforts addressing global population growth in the context of environmental sustainability.

Background

The California State Duck Stamp (Stamp Project) was created by legislation in 1971 (Fish and Game Code §3702). The stamp is required when hunting waterfowl and purchased by stamp collectors. All funds generated by the sale of stamps are deposited in the State Duck Stamp Account, administered by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Department). The funds can only be used for projects approved by the Fish and Game Commission (Commission) for the purpose of protecting, preserving, restoring, enhancing, and developing migratory waterfowl breeding and wintering habitat, evaluating habitat projects, and conducting waterfowl resource assessments and other waterfowl related research. These funds also may be used to reimburse nonprofit organizations for completed habitat projects.

During winter, wetlands and agricultural habitats in California, especially the Central Valley, support the largest single concentration of waterfowl (currently three to four million) in North America. This concentration represents more than 60 percent of all waterfowl wintering in the Pacific Flyway and more than 20 percent of all waterfowl wintering in North America. These birds are almost entirely dependent on water and habitat provided through human activities due to the significant loss of wetlands in California.

Since 1971, when adult hunters in California were first required to purchase a State Duck Stamp for waterfowl hunting, nearly $22 million has been spent to enhance wetland habitats. These funds, and additional contributions from non-profit conservation groups and federal agencies, have been used to enhance over 50,000 acres of wetland habitat in California on state and federal lands. An additional $5 million raised from the sale of State Duck Stamps has been expended to improve waterfowl habitat in the production areas in Canada that contribute waterfowl to the wintering populations in California..

Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program Introduction and Summary

The Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program (SALC), a component of the Strategic Growth Council’s Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities (AHSC) Program, supports California’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction goals by making strategic investments to protect agricultural lands from conversion to more GHG-intensive uses. It also contributes to implementation of Governor Newsom’s Executive Order N-82-20, which calls for the accelerated use of nature-based solutions to address the climate and biodiversity crises. Protecting critical agricultural lands from conversion to urban or rural residential development promotes smart growth within existing jurisdictions, ensures open space remains available, and supports healthy agricultural and tribal food systems, and resulting food security. Healthy and resilient food systems are becoming increasingly important in meeting the challenges occurring and anticipated as a result of climate change.

SALC is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide program that puts billions of Cap-and-Trade dollars to work reducing GHG emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment– particularly in disadvantaged communities. The Cap-and-Trade program also creates a financial incentive for industries to invest in clean technologies and develop innovative ways to reduce pollution. California Climate Investments projects include affordable housing, renewable energy, public transportation, zeroemission vehicles, environmental restoration, more sustainable agriculture, recycling, and much more. At least 35 percent of these investments are located within and benefiting residents of disadvantaged communities, low-income communities, and low-income households across California.

Program Components

These Guidelines cover the following investment types:

• Agricultural Conservation Acquisition Capacity Funding – Grants to develop agricultural conservation easement and fee acquisition projects and/or cover associated costs to help close acquisition projects where the cost of the acquisition is covered by an alternate source of funding.
• Agricultural Conservation Acquisitions – Grants to protect important agricultural lands under threat of conversion to nonagricultural uses through the acquisition of voluntary, permanent agricultural conservation easements (easements) or fee title purchases.
• Agricultural Conservation Planning – Grants to develop and implement plans for the protection of agricultural lands under pressure of being converted to non-agricultural uses.

For the purposes of this program, agricultural land includes both cultivated and non-cultivated lands that support an agricultural use, including gathering and activities that promote healthy trees, shrubs, and perennial forbs for the cultivation of traditional foods, herbal medicine, fibers (such as basketry material), and dyes so long as such activities are led by or conducted in partnership with a a Federally recognized or non-federally recognized California Native American tribe on the contact list maintained by the Native American Heritage Commission, or members thereof. 

Our Vision

Sustainability involves economic viability, environmental sensitivity, and social responsiveness, with emphasis on working with and preserving nature. Innovation involves creativity and new ideas that make this world a better place to live.

The foundation seeks to foster environmental restoration, preservation and education with emphasis on seed moneys that lead to establishing demonstration projects that link rural and urban settings. Projects could orient toward use of resources in sustainable ways, integration of food production, technology, economics, and community development in harmonious ways with the natural world, preservation of wildlife habitat as well as the diversity of wild and domestic plants and animals, and conservation of wilderness and open space. Of interest might be projects designed to restore and maintain biological diversity of flora and fauna or establishment of seed banks, sustainable land use, or appropriate technology for alternative energy resources. Efforts to find space in tight urban areas, bring the countryside to the city in the form of gardens, landscaping, and space are encouraged. Likewise, efforts to provide space and alternative living to urban people in a rural area are welcome.

A particular concern is with sustaining agriculture through organic, biodynamic, permacultural and other processes, training young people to be farmers, and linking farms to communities through community supported agriculture. Another area of need would be support for small alternative presses and periodicals that focus on issues and problems and their resolution and desire to impact broadly on society with their creativity and new ideas.

The foundation sponsors Laguna Wilderness Press that publishes books featuring the work of concerned artists, photographers, and environmentalists. Its books move in two directions: (1) to depict nature and pristine wilderness areas through photography and essay; (2) to focus on changing landscape and the impact of urban growth, technology, and development on natural beauty and resources.

With its interest in LWP and its home base in southern California, the foundation desires to direct attention to environmental groups and concerns in Laguna Beach, especially preservation and restoration of areas under conservation in the open space known as the Laguna Greenbelt or Wilderness and including the Laguna Bluebelt; projects that expand open space in the inner greenbelt, promote community gardening, including in its schools, restore wherever possible the canyon creeks to their natural setting, and help to establish the legacy of a unique place and its traditions of village diverse planning and vision, plein air painting, and historic homes and sites.

Project Types

Projects could orient toward use of resources in sustainable ways, preservation of wildlife habitats, conservation of wilderness, integration of food production, technology, economics, and community development in harmonious ways with the natural world. Also, another area of interest is support for small alternative presses and periodicals that show creativity and new ideas, and focus on issues and problems.

The Habitat Conservation Fund allocates approximately $2 million each year to cities, counties, and districts. Funding from several Fiscal Years are being combined for the upcoming cycle. The program requires a 50% match. Eligible projects include: nature interpretation programs to bring urban residents into park and wildlife areas, protection of various plant and animal species, and acquisition and development of wildlife corridors and trails.

There are seven unique categories, each is further explained in the HCF Category Chart, found here, and Application Guides below. 

• Deer/Mountain Lion Habitat:  see here
• Rare, Endangered, Threatened or Fully Protected Species Habitat: see here
• Wetlands: see here
• Anadromous Salmonids and Trout Habitat: see here
• Riparian Habitat: see here
• Trails: see here
• Wildlife Area Activities: see here

Philosophy

John and Nancy Schwemm, lived outwardly their core beliefs that compassion and personal integrity should serve as the guiding principles of life’s endeavors, and that our lives are more meaningful if we participate in bettering our communities.

Based on those principals, the Schwemm Family Foundation seeks to promote programs and initiatives that connect people to the past, help improve the way we live in the present, and identify and promote healthy land stewardship far into the future.

Goals

Enhancing natural environments

The Foundation seeks to promote programs and initiatives that strengthen communities through the enhancement of natural environments.  

The Foundation will consider grant requests that sustain and protect resilient, local ecosystems and related biodiversity by focusing on proactive conservation, and/or comprehensive restoration.

Funded Projects Will:

• Target environmental protection/enhancement efforts at local scales that contribute to ecosystem resiliency
• Have clear, measurable goals with long-term ecological benefits
• Be based on scientific principles of ecology and/or ecosystem restoration

Preserving local history and culture

The Foundation seeks to promote programs and initiatives that help instill a sense of connection and belonging to one’s community through the preservation of local history and culture. The Foundation will consider grant requests that better communities by preserving and sharing history and cultural heritage through literature, digital archiving, and/or other interpretive means.

Funded Projects Will:

• Document or interpret some portion of pre-1935 community history or culture
• Focus on a specific local community
• Speak to a wide audience
• Provide an enduring component accessible to the general population

Promoting healthy communities for all

The Foundation seeks to foster thriving communities by supporting projects that build healthier and more equitable communities.

Funded Projects Will:

• Promote local communities in the planning and implementation of environmentally focused land use decisions and/or support parks, green spaces, urban trail corridors, community gardens, and urban farms.
• Integrate with ongoing community efforts aimed at enhancing equitable access of resources to individuals in underserved communities.

Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program

The Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program (SALC), a component of the Strategic Growth Council’s Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities (AHSC) Program, supports California’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction goals by making strategic investments to protect agricultural lands from conversion to more GHG-intensive uses. It also contributes to implementation of Governor Newsom’s Executive Order N-82-20, which calls for the accelerated use of nature-based solutions to address the climate and biodiversity crises. Protecting critical agricultural lands from conversion to urban or rural residential development promotes smart growth within existing jurisdictions, ensures open space remains available, and supports healthy agricultural and tribal food systems, and resulting food security. Healthy and resilient food systems are becoming increasingly important in meeting the challenges occurring and anticipated as a result of climate change.

Capacity and Project Development

Capacity and Project Development grants expand organizational capacity to develop agricultural conservation acquisition projects.​

SALC capacity grants will be provided to:

• build organizational and financial capacity to develop agricultural conservation acquisition projects,
• assist eligible applicants in developing agricultural conservation easement and fee acquisition projects in preparation for submitting such projects for acquisition funding in future rounds, and
• provide funds to cover associated costs to help close agricultural conservation acquisition projects where the cost of the acquisition is covered by an alternate source of funding.

Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grants provide funding for the acquisition or development of land to create new outdoor recreation opportunities for the health and wellness of Californians.  Since 1965, over one thousand parks throughout California have been created or improved with LWCF assistance.

• Amount Available: $35 Million
• Local Agency Maximum Grant Request: $6 million
• Match Requirement: 50%

The Office of Grants and Local Services (OGALS) Mission Statement

The mission of the Office of Grants and Local Services is to address California's diverse recreational, cultural and historical resource needs by developing GRANT programs, administering funds, offering technical assistance, building partnerships and providing leadership through quality customer service.

OGALS Vision Goals

• Proactive in meeting California's park and recreation needs through innovative grant programs and a commitment to quality customer service.
• Sensitive to local concerns while mindful of prevailing laws, rules, and regulations.
• Responsive to the needs of applicants, grantees, nonprofit organizations, local governments, and legislative members, who are our partners working to improve the quality of life for all Californians by creating new parks and recreation opportunities. 

LWCF Legacy

On February 14, 1963, President Kennedy’s Administration proposed legislation to establish a "Land and Water Conservation Fund" to assist states in planning, ACQUISITION, and DEVELOPMENT of recreation lands. With bipartisan support, President Johnson signed it into law on September 3, 1964, as Public Law 88- 578, 16 U.S.C.460l-4.

NPS administers the LWCF program at the federal level. Previously, the Bureau of Outdoor Recreation administered the LWCF program from 1964 to 1978 and the Heritage Conservation & Recreation Service administered it from 1978 to 1981. Funds allocated to California are administered by the DEPARTMENT under the provisions of the California Outdoor Recreation Resources Plan Act of 1967, (Public Resources Code §5099 et seq.). Outer Continental Shelf mineral receipts, sales of federal surplus real property, federal recreation fees, and federal motorboat fuel taxes all serve as funding sources for the LWCF. On August 4, 2020, the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) was signed into law, authorizing $900 million nationwide annually in permanent funding for LWCF.

When an LWCF PROJECT is completed, the land within the approved LWCF BOUNDARY MAP is placed under federal protection, preserving the public’s outdoor recreational use of the site in PERPETUITY for the benefit of our nation’s future generations.

This PARK protection legacy is based on the provision of 54 U.S.C. §200305(f)(3) of the LWCF Act. Thousands of PARKS throughout California will remain as perpetual monuments to the foresight of President Kennedy’s Administration and the American people.