Proposition 4 – Nature Based
🏛 Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Jul 10, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for land acquisition in California. Eligible applicants are typically willing property owners with land having documented biological or conservation value. CDFW must evaluate and recommend the property before WCB considers funding. Only California-based acquisitions are supported.
The application process involves developing a Full WCB Real Property Acquisition Application with biological evaluations. CDFW Director review and approval is required before submission to WCB. Timeline for the full process is typically 6-12 months.
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Program description
Climate projects are covered under Chapter 6 of Proposition 4 and must satisfy Section 93000, while also addressing at least one priority from Section 93020. Eligible projects protect biodiversity or nature, restore landscape health, or achieve California’s climate goals. To qualify, each project must also reduce climate change risks to communities, fish and wildlife, or natural resources, or increase public access to nature. Proposition 4 – Nature Based
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Full WCB Real Property Acquisition Application
- Biological evaluation by CDFW
- Fair market value appraisal approved by DGS
- CDFW Director approval letter
Program contact
- 📧 grants@smmc.ca.gov
- 📞 1-310-589-2899
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 | 2 | 2 | 100% |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Willing property owners with land of conservation value. CDFW must first evaluate and recommend the property.
What is the timeline for acquisition?
The full process typically takes 6-12 months from application to funding decision.
What properties are eligible?
Properties must have documented biological value and be appraised at fair market value by DGS.
How is the acquisition process structured?
CDFW evaluates biological values, seeks Director approval, then submits recommendations to WCB for funding decisions.
Is there a specific deadline to apply?
Deadlines are rolling. Applications can be submitted as opportunities present themselves.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Work directly with CDFW early. They evaluate biological values and make the funding recommendation to WCB.
- Prepare a complete Full WCB Real Property Acquisition Application with thorough biological documentation.
- Understand that the 6-12 month timeline means planning well in advance for property transactions.
- Engage a qualified appraiser familiar with fair market value appraisals for conservation land.
- Coordinate with both CDFW and WCB throughout the process to align with current acquisition priorities.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Insufficient biological documentation of conservation value. Failing to secure CDFW evaluation and recommendation before approaching WCB. Unrealistic timeline expectations for the 6-12 month acquisition process.
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