Desert Conservation Program
🏛 Wildlife Conservation Board (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Jul 10, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for California shoreline erosion control projects. Local sponsors, municipalities, and public agencies managing waterfront property can apply. The program funds construction and erosion management along California's shoreline, bays, and navigable waterways. State funds typically cover up to 50% of local sponsor cost-share requirements for projects partially funded by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
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Program description
The Desert Conservation Program includes the following actions: Protect, preserve, and restore the natural, cultural, and physical resources of the portions of the Mojave and Colorado Deserts region in California through the acquisition, restoration, and management of lands.Promote the protection and restoration of the biological diversity of the region. Provide for resilience in the region to climate change.Protect and improve air quality and water resources within the region.Undertake efforts to enhance public use and enjoyment of lands owned by the public. The Wildlife Conservation Board accepts pre-applications for acquisition, restoration, and management projects on a continuous basis. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to: Acquisition of land, especially parcels that are part of a wildlife movement corridor, contain water sources, have sacred or culturally significant tribal sites, protect listed species, or provide public accessRestoration of riparian and upland vegetationInvasive plant removal and control.Seed collection, processing, and propagationScientific studies, especially those that help aid in the recovery of listed species.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- Letter of Intent
- Project Narrative
- Budget and Cost-Share Plan
- Site Assessment/Erosion Documentation
- Environmental Compliance Documentation
- Local Government Resolution or Sponsor Authorization
Program contact
- 📧 amy.henderson@wildlife.ca.gov
- 📞 1-916-926-9585
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 | 1 | 4 | 400% |
| 2025-2026 | 4 | 1 | 25% |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply for this grant?
Local sponsors and public agencies managing California shoreline are eligible. Private entities may apply through a local government partner.
What is the deadline?
Letter of Intent is due December 16, 2024 at 5pm. Full application deadline is February 3, 2025.
What types of projects are funded?
Shoreline erosion control, stabilization, and protection projects. Projects must align with California's waterway management goals.
What is the cost-sharing requirement?
Cost sharing is required. State funds cover up to 50% of the local sponsor's required project cost share for Corps-funded projects.
What is the funding range?
Awards typically range from $40,000 to $1,000,000 depending on project scope and need.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Start early with the Letter of Intent (due 12/16/2024). This is your first opportunity to signal a competitive project.
- Document your cost-sharing plan clearly. Show how local funds will cover the remaining portion beyond state support.
- Partner with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers if possible. Many funded projects leverage federal engineering support.
- Include site data and erosion impact assessments. Quantify the threat and demonstrate urgency.
- Align your project with California's coastal management and environmental policies. Reference relevant state planning documents.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Weak cost-share documentation or unrealistic funding timelines. Missing connection to Army Corps of Engineers partnership or federal co-funding. Vague erosion threat assessment without engineering data or site photos.
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