The Connecting People to Forests Grant is a joint program of the National Forest Foundation and the U.S. Forest Service. It supports community engagement and stewardship activities in the 154 national forests and 20 national grasslands.
Applications are due by June 21, 2024 for projects that can start August 21, 2024 and take no more than 18 months to complete. There is a 1:1 matching requirement of nonfederal funds as well as a required letter of support from the District Ranger of each National Forest or Grassland that is part of the project.
Eligibility
This grant is open to:
- Nonprofit organizations
- Native American tribal governments and organizations
- Universities
Potential Activities
Community Engagement
Potential community engagement activities include:
- Cleanup days
- School field trips
- Outdoor skills training
- Nature-based therapeutic activities
- Community science projects
Stewardship
Potential stewardship activities include:
- Native tree and shrub planting
- Trail maintenance
- Invasive species control
- Forest and watershed restoration
- Education on sustainable recreation principles
Evaluation Criteria
All applications will be reviewed based on:
- Strength of engagement
- Potential for diversifying beneficiaries
- Stewardship benefit
- Potential for long-term impact
- Feasibility and strength of proposal
