Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program (CFP)
Program Funding
Annual program obligations reported to SAM.gov.
Program Objective
The Community Forest Program (CFP) is a competitive grant program that provides financial assistance to tribal entities, local governments, and qualified conservation non-profit organizations to acquire and establish community forests that provide community benefits. Community forest benefits are specified in the authorizing statute (16 U.S.C. 2103(d)) and Final Rule (36 CFR Part 230), including: economic benefits from sustainable forest management and tourism; environmental benefits from natural resource conservation such as storm water management, clean air and water, and wildlife habitat; forest-based educational programs, model forest stewardship activities; and recreational opportunities. Public access to the community forests is required and intended to enhance public health and well-being. In addition, the program authorizes allocation of a limited amount of appropriated funds to State Foresters and equivalent Indian tribe officials for technical assistance to implement community forest projects.
Eligibility
Eligible Applicants
- Federally Recognized Tribal Government
- Tribal Government (other)
- Nonprofit Organization
Project grants are awarded to Federally Recognized Indian Tribes (including Alaska Native Corporations), local governmental entities, or qualified nonprofit organizations (as defined in 16 U.S.C. 2103(d)) that are qualified to acquire and manage land. Individuals are not eligible to receive funds through this program.
How to Apply
Award Procedure
The Forest Service will publish an annual request for applications. The Forest Service will prioritize a national project list and issue grant to eligible applicants based on the amount provided in Congressional appropriations.
Decision Timeline
- Approval: From 60 to 90 days
- Renewal interval: From 30 to 60 days
Program details & compliance
Description
The Community Forest Program is a competitive grant program that provides financial assistance to tribal entities, local governments, and qualified conservation non-profit organizations to acquire and establish community forests that provide community benefits.
Mission Categories
Primary: Forestry
Other categories:
Agricultural Resource Conservation and Development
Use of Funds
Allowed Uses
Assistance will be used to acquire easements or land in fee-simple to meet the goals of the program. Landowner participation in the program is voluntary and consists of conveying land to achieve conservation objectives.
Restrictions
Proceeds from this program are restricted to the acquisition of private forest lands identified as having a high risk of conversion to non-forest uses.
Matching Requirements
Funds reimbursed by the Federal Government may not exceed 50 percent of the total project budget expended by the grantee. The non-Federal share of the match may be in the form of cash, services, or in-kind contribution.
This program may use up to 10% of its funds for each fiscal year to provide technical assistance grants. Technical assistance funds do not have a matching requirement and are available to state foresters or equivalent officials of Indian tribes with a funded project in their jurisdiction.
Reporting & Compliance
Applicable 2 CFR 200 Subparts
- Subpart B — General Provisions
- Subpart C — Pre-Federal Award Requirements
- Subpart D — Post-Federal Award Requirements
- Subpart E — Cost Principles
- Subpart F — Audit Requirements