Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy Proposition 4 Nature Based Solutions and Climate Adaptation Grant Program
🏛 Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Sep 12, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for California organizations that manage water recreation areas. Eligible recipients typically include local government agencies, special districts, and nonprofits that control waterfront property on lakes and reservoirs. Applicants must be able to site a floating restroom at an on-water location and commit to maintaining it for at least 10 years.
The state-owned Division of Boating and Waterways will procure, design, deliver, and install the floating restroom unit. Recipients handle ongoing maintenance and operations. This program is limited to California locations only.
⚖️ Cost sharing / matching required — applicants must contribute their own funds.
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Program description
Awards are made for projects that reduce climate change risks, protect natural and cultural resources, restore habitat and watershed systems, and improve public access to outdoor recreation within the Coachella Valley and its surrounding mountains. Eligible projects may include conservation land acquisition, habitat restoration and enhancement, watershed and ecosystem restoration, wildfire risk reduction, and improvements that expand safe and equitable access to parks, trails, and natural areas. Funding is provided through the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024 (Proposition 4). Applications begin with submission of a Letter of Intent using the Conservancy’s Pre-Application Consultation Form. Following administrative review, eligible applicants may be invited to submit a full application. Additional information about the application process and eligibility requirements is available in the Proposition 4 Grant Program Guidelines on the Conservancy’s website. Projects that provide meaningful and direct benefits to disadvantaged communities (DACs), severely disadvantaged communities (SDACs), or vulnerable populations will receive priority consideration. Projects that demonstrate strong community engagement, leverage matching funds, support regional conservation objectives, and align with state initiatives such as California’s 30×30 conservation goal may also receive additional consideration during the evaluation process.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- Application form (DBW-specific)
- Site description and location map
- Long-term maintenance and operations plan
- Demonstration of boating demand or usage
- Proof of site control and legal authority
- Budget for 10-year maintenance period
Program contact
- 📧 mochoa@cvmc.ca.gov
- 📞 1-760-776-5026
Funding track record
Past applications & awards under this program (California Grants Portal) — how competitive it is.
By fiscal year
| Fiscal year | Applications | Awarded | Award rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-2026 | 1 | 1 | 100% |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Local government agencies, special districts, and nonprofits managing water recreation areas in California are typically eligible. Your organization must control waterfront property on a lake or reservoir.
What does the grant cover?
DBW provides the floating restroom unit, design, and installation. You must maintain the unit for at least 10 years and cover all operational costs.
How much funding is available?
The program has $1.2 million total. Individual awards typically reach up to $240,000 in the value of the restroom unit provided.
Are there matching requirements?
No cost share is required. However, you must commit resources to maintain the restroom for 10 years.
When is the deadline?
The FY25 deadline is December 19, 2025. Check with DBW for future year timelines.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Identify a specific on-water location where the restroom will serve boaters. Have site details ready before applying.
- Confirm your organization has legal authority to install and maintain infrastructure at your proposed location.
- Document the boating activity and demand at your site. Show how the restroom meets a real need.
- Plan for 10-year maintenance costs. Budget for cleaning, repairs, and potential replacements in your application narrative.
- Contact DBW early to understand site requirements and any local permitting needed before submitting your request.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applicants underestimate long-term maintenance costs and fail to budget realistically for 10 years of upkeep. Sites without clear boating demand or public access are less competitive. Vague or incomplete site location details weaken applications significantly.
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