Public Access
🏛 Wildlife Conservation Board (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Jul 10, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for California public entities restoring eroded beaches. Local agencies, districts, and municipalities can apply if their projects align with California's shoreline erosion protection standards. Projects must prevent erosion, protect public infrastructure, and serve public recreational use. Cost-sharing is required and all work must meet state environmental and engineering standards.
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Program description
Access to nature is critical to human health and wellbeing, yet outdoor access and its many benefits are not equitably distributed or equally welcoming to all communities. WCB supports California’s Outdoors for All Initiative by funding Planning and Construction projects that support wildlife-oriented recreation and nature-focused education throughout the state. Planning grants are intended to support the development of projects that are likely to qualify for future implementation funding under this program. Implementation grants are intended for construction or enhancement of public access facilities. WCB is committed to providing support for the full range of outdoor activities that are compatible with our habitat protection mandate: Hunting and fishing Non-consumptive recreation including but not limited to birdwatching, hiking, cycling, and environmental education
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- Letter of Intent (due 12/16/2024)
- Project Narrative with erosion assessment
- Engineering plans and specifications
- Cost estimate and budget detail
- Cost-share documentation and funding letters
- Environmental review or CEQA compliance
- Letters of support from local agencies
Program contact
- 📧 Alyssa.Benedetti@wildlife.ca.gov
- 📞 1-916-212-0691
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-2025 | 16 | 6 | 38% |
| 2025-2026 | 12 | 3 | 25% |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
California public agencies, local governments, and special districts working on beach restoration are eligible. Your project must serve public beaches and meet state erosion control standards.
What is the deadline?
Letter of Intent is due December 16, 2024 by 5 pm. Full application deadlines may vary yearly.
What types of projects are funded?
Beach nourishment, erosion control, and infrastructure protection projects that restore public beaches and improve recreational access.
How competitive is this funding?
Highly competitive. Awards range from $40,000 to $1.5 million from a $1.5 million total pool, so few projects receive funding.
Is cost-sharing required?
Yes, applicants must provide matching funds or in-kind contributions to strengthen their application.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Begin with a detailed erosion assessment. Show baseline conditions and measurable restoration goals backed by engineering data.
- Align your project with California's Shoreline Erosion Protection Policy and Harbors and Navigation Code requirements to strengthen competitiveness.
- Clearly document your cost-share commitment and funding sources early. Reviewers need confidence in your match before approving grants.
- Address long-term maintenance and sustainability. Explain how the restored beach will be monitored and managed after project completion.
- Engage local stakeholders and obtain letters of support from city/county officials. Community backing makes applications stand out.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Projects without credible erosion data or engineering justification often fail. Vague cost-sharing plans or inadequate match documentation weaken competitiveness. Insufficient detail on long-term beach maintenance reduces approval odds.
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