Best Forestry Grants in Maine

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

Land trusts, municipal conservation commissions, local governments, nonprofits, state agencies, and private foundations in Maine can seek funding to acquire small parcels that improve public access to lakes, ponds, rivers, and coastal waters. Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry supports projects that enhance boating, fishing, swimming, and other recreational water uses, which may complement forestry and land conservation efforts.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry

Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) is Maine's support center for many land-based natural resource interests, including farms and forestry-related businesses, outdoor recreation, and public access to parks and public lands.

We strive to provide excellent customer service, and we facilitate a team approach to land-use planning, conservation efforts, business support, and economic activity. Our agency has a wide range of duties, from promoting and advancing Maine's agricultural resources; protecting and enhancing our vast forestland, which comprises 89% of our state's land base; managing more than 700,000 acres of state parks and public lands; and administering numerous science-based programs focused on resource management, wise land use planning, and conservation, while strengthening the base of scientific research and information for effective decision-making.  

WoodsWISE Resilience Program

The Maine Forest Service has a new program to support Maine forestland owners. The WoodsWISE Resilience Program provides financial incentives for eight stewardship practices designed to enhance the resilience of Maine’s forests.

What is Resilience?

Forest resilience measures how well forests adapt and respond to changing conditions. A resilient forest can resist disturbances, such as intense windstorms, or recover after insect outbreaks. While some trees or species may be lost, the forest ecosystem endures.

Information for Landowners

Landowners interested in participating in the program should contact their District Forester for a site visit. To enroll in the program, landowners must work with a Resilience Forester. Find a Resilience Forester to work with in your area.

Information for Foresters

Foresters interested in working with landowners in the program must complete a Resilience Forester training with the Maine Forest Service. This training is required for all foresters who want to participate in currently open program funding, as well as a new funding opportunity opening in November. 

Eligible Practices

The program covers three categories of practices: early stand tending, regeneration support, and forest health.

Early Stand Tending Practices:

• Pre-commercial thinning: Reducing the number of trees in young or sapling-sized forest:
• Early commercial thinning: Reducing the number of trees in a forest where part of the trees can create a commercial forest product
• Crop tree release: Removing trees to favor those of the preferred form, vigor, or species

Regeneration Support:

• Regeneration management to promote tree regeneration: The intentional removal of trees to create space and resources for regeneration (seedlings, sprouts, or established small trees).
• Tree planting: Planting tree seedlings to meet landowner objectives
• Regeneration protection: Temporary tree cages or exclosures to protect small trees or seedlings from animal browsing.

Forest Health Practices:

• Sanitation cutting: Removing specific trees or tree species to reduce the threat of diseases, insects, fungi, or other health concerns
• Invasive plant control: Using mechanical or chemical methods to remove invasive plants

Financial Incentives

This is a reimbursement program for landowners. Landowners may request reimbursement for expenses incurred at multiple points throughout the program. Eligible expenses include planning costs, forester time, and practice implementation. Reimbursement is based on Not-to-Exceed rates for each eligible expense.

Underserved Landowners

Underserved landowners, as defined by the US Department of Agriculture, are eligible for an 90% reimbursement rate. All other landowners are eligible for a 60% reimbursement rate. US Department of Agriculture definitions for historically underserved landowners can be found HERE.

Employers, municipalities, nonprofits, human service organizations, and public or private transportation providers in Maine can access up to US $750,000 for rural workforce transportation pilots, including capital, operating, and start-up costs. Maine Department of Transportation prioritizes projects serving key industries such as agriculture, fishing, forestry, and tourism, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis.

Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry

Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) is Maine's support center for many land-based natural resource interests, including farms and forestry-related businesses, outdoor recreation, and public access to parks and public lands.

We strive to provide excellent customer service, and we facilitate a team approach to land-use planning, conservation efforts, business support, and economic activity. Our agency has a wide range of duties, from promoting and advancing Maine's agricultural resources; protecting and enhancing our vast forestland, which comprises 89% of our state's land base; managing more than 700,000 acres of state parks and public lands; and administering numerous science-based programs focused on resource management, wise land use planning, and conservation, while strengthening the base of scientific research and information for effective decision-making. 

PFAS Fund Major Grants

Maine Governor Janet Mills created the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS Fund) in 2022 to support farmers whose land and/or water are contaminated with PFAS. The PFAS Fund is a first-in-the-country coordinated effort to specifically address PFAS in agriculture and is governed by 7 M.R.S.A. c. 10-D. One goal of the PFAS Fund is to fund research that allows farmers to make informed decisions about how to adjust their operations in light of PFAS contamination. Additional goals of the PFAS Fund include direct financial support for affected farmers, the purchase and management of PFAS-contaminated agricultural land, and mental and physical health-related initiatives.  

This grant funding will support research to help commercial farmers make informed decisions about utilizing agricultural property impacted by PFAS. Priority research areas are:

• PFAS in Agricultural Settings: Water, Soil, and Plant Studies
• PFAS in Agricultural Settings: Animals and Animal Product Studies
• Understanding and Managing PFAS in On-Farm Agricultural Settings and Products

Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry

Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) is Maine's support center for many land-based natural resource interests, including farms and forestry-related businesses, outdoor recreation, and public access to parks and public lands.

We strive to provide excellent customer service, and we facilitate a team approach to land-use planning, conservation efforts, business support, and economic activity. Our agency has a wide range of duties, from promoting and advancing Maine's agricultural resources; protecting and enhancing our vast forestland, which comprises 89% of our state's land base; managing more than 700,000 acres of state parks and public lands; and administering numerous science-based programs focused on resource management, wise land use planning, and conservation, while strengthening the base of scientific research and information for effective decision-making.  

PFAS Fund Targeted Grants

Maine Governor Janet Mills created the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) Fund in 2022 to support farmers whose land and/or water are contaminated with PFAS. The PFAS Fund is a first-in-the-country coordinated effort to specifically address PFAS in agriculture and is governed by 7 M.R.S.A. c. 10-D. One goal of the PFAS Fund is to fund research that allows farmers to make informed decisions about how to adjust their operations in light of PFAS contamination. Additional goals of the PFAS Fund include direct financial support for affected farmers, the purchase and management of PFAS-contaminated agricultural land, and mental and physical health-related initiatives.  

The DACF PFAS Fund is part of the more extensive, integrated, multi-agency investigation of and response to PFAS throughout Maine. DACF’s primary focus is safeguarding human health and ensuring the viability of farms.

With a mission to strengthen agriculture and related industries, Farm Credit East provides Maine forestry, agriculture, and commercial fishing organizations with US $500 - US $10,000 for projects that enhance long-term industry viability. Eligible programs include leadership development, economic development, market promotion, education, and economic analysis benefiting the broader Northeast region.

Local governments, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations in Maine can receive up to US $20,000 to plan and deliver community forestry education and management projects. Maine Forest Service’s Project Canopy Planning and Education grants support sustainable community forestry, increase awareness of tree and forest benefits, and improve community health and livability through tree planting and maintenance.

Local governments, educational institutions, and nonprofits in Maine can fund tree planting and maintenance projects that strengthen community forestry programs and urban tree cover. With a mission to support long-term community forestry, Maine Forest Service provides up to US $15,000 on a 50/50 match basis for activities like buffer plantings, business district enhancement, and green infrastructure.

State of Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry

The key to Maine's past, present, and future quality of life and economic prosperity for its citizens is permanently linked to the condition of the State's forest resources. The Maine Forest Service works to ensure that the trees and forest lands of Maine will continue to provide benefits for present and future generations of Maine people. The Maine Forest Service does this by:

• Developing, advocating for, and promoting activities that encourage the sound long term management of Maine's forest resources.
• Protecting Maine's forest resources from the effects of fire, insects, disease and misuse.
• Providing accurate, relevant, and timely information about Maine's forest resources.

Volunteer Fire Capacity Program

The purpose of the Volunteer Fire Capacity (VFC) Program, formerly known as the Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) Program, is to provide Federal financial, technical, and other assistance to State Foresters and other appropriate officials to organize, train and equip fire departments in rural areas and rural communities to prevent and suppress wildfires. A rural community is defined as having 10,000 or less population.

Each year, federal funds are appropriated to assist towns with the purchase of forest fire equipment or to provide forest fire training. Grants require that towns match the grant funds dollar for dollar.

Maine organizations planning natural resource conservation or outdoor recreation projects can apply for grants that support wildlife, habitat, public lands, and related law enforcement work in Maine. With a mission to maintain, improve, and expand conservation programs, Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife administers the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund, prioritizing strong public–private partnerships and projects of statewide significance that may include forestry-related components.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of Maine offers vital financial and technical assistance to farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners. This program supports conservation practices to enhance soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitats while combating drought and climate change. EQIP promotes sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring producers can integrate conservation into their operations effectively, ultimately fostering a healthier environment and agricultural resilience.

Grants from Maine Community Foundation help Maine nonprofits, municipalities, schools, and public agencies fund projects benefiting the Baldwin area, with awards from US $1,000 - US $20,000. Eligible projects may promote forestry, natural resource education, sustainable resource-based economies, or greater self-reliance among Baldwin residents, including new, expanding, or ongoing programs.

Maine farms seeking to overcome on-farm barriers to soil health in Maine can apply for funding to improve soil conditions and management. The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s Healthy Soils Program supports projects such as cover cropping, amendments, soil monitoring equipment, training, and related practices, which may benefit operations integrating forestry or agroforestry systems.

Public and private agencies in Maine planning recreational boating access projects can seek up to US $100,000 to acquire, develop, enhance, or rehabilitate public boat launching facilities. Focused on recreational water access, the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry invites applicants to fund design, construction, permitting, and related project costs that improve public boating opportunities.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

Forestry and plant science students in Maine can receive scholarship support for allied plant sciences, including forestry, ecology, conservation, and related fields. The Old York Garden Club, through the Garden Club Federation of Maine, offers a US $3,000 award to legal Maine residents studying full-time at Maine institutions or the University of New Hampshire.

Maine municipalities and state agencies seeking funding for harbor management, planning, and public access improvements to state waters can apply for this program, with awards up to Up to US $20,000. Focused on water resource management, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources initiative may benefit projects connected to forestry-related waterfront or submerged lands in Maine.

State of Maine agencies, counties, municipalities, school districts, and tribal nations in Maine can seek funding to acquire or develop public outdoor recreation facilities. The Land and Water Conservation Fund, administered by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, offers up to US $1,000,000 and can cover up to 50% of eligible project costs, which may benefit forestry-related recreation areas.

With a mission to support outdoor recreation and active transportation, the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry provides Maine municipalities, state subdivisions, and nonprofits with funding up to US $250,000 for trail design, restoration, and new trail development. Projects that enhance public access, tourism, and sustainable, multi-use trail networks may be competitive.

Forestry professionals and researchers in Maine from ITTO member countries can access funding through the International Tropical Timber Organization Fellowship Programme, with awards up to US $10,000 for short-term training, conferences, study tours, and postgraduate work. Individuals, not institutions, apply to build skills that support sustainable forestry and natural resource management.

Forestry and conservation nonprofits in Maine can seek US $10,000 - US $30,000 to support biodiversity protection, habitat conservation, and related environmental initiatives. Grants from Weeden Foundation help organizations working on land and wildlife conservation, environmental education, and sustainable resource use; 501(c)(3) groups or international equivalents must submit a Letter of Inquiry before a full proposal.

Focused on forestry and related natural resources, this programme invites research scientists to seek funding for conferences, workshops, or symposia in OECD Co-operative Research Programme member countries. Maine forestry researchers may be eligible if their events address CRP themes in forestry, agriculture, fisheries, food, or sustainable natural resource use.

Nonprofit and public entities running projects that benefit Maine’s specialty crop industry, including forest-related crops, can seek up to US $100,000 for market research, promotion, or new technology. With a mission to support agriculture and conservation, Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry administers this competitive program annually for statewide industry-benefit initiatives.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.