The California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection and Outdoor Access for All Act of 2018 (Proposition 68) SMMC Grant Program – Prop 68 River San Fernando Valley – California
🏛 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 to support wildlife conservation and habitat protection. Applicants must own property or represent willing sellers interested in conservation easements or fee-simple acquisitions. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) evaluates biological value and makes funding recommendations to the Wildlife Conservation Board. Properties must meet conservation priorities established by CDFW and WCB jointly.
All acquisitions follow fair market value appraisals approved by the Department of General Services. The evaluation and approval process typically takes 6 to 12 months. Willing seller agreements are required for all acquisitions.
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Program description
This program Supports The California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection and Outdoor Access for All Act of 2018 is codified as Division 45 (commencing with section 80000) and sections 5096.611 and 75089.5 of the public resources code and section 79772.5 of the water code. Prop 68 authorizes $4 billion in general obligation to finance a drought, water, parks, climate, coastal protection and outdoor access for all program. The Santa Monica Mountains conservancy’s (“Conservancy”) Proposition 68 Grant Program Guidelines (“Guidelines”) Specifically pertain to grants funded by proposition 68 and administered by the Conservancy. Prop 68 River San Fernando Valley – California
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Full WCB Real Property Acquisition Application
- Fair market value appraisal (DGS-approved)
- Biological value assessment by CDFW
- Willing seller documentation/proof of agreement
- Property description and conservation justification
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 | — | — | — |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Who can apply for Land Acquisition funding?
Property owners or their representatives seeking to conserve land in California. CDFW must evaluate the property's biological value and recommend funding.
How long does the approval process take?
Typically 6 to 12 months from application through CDFW evaluation and director approval to WCB funding decision.
What types of properties are eligible?
Land that meets CDFW and WCB's conservation priorities, evaluated for biological habitat value and strategic conservation goals.
Do I need a willing seller agreement?
Yes. All acquisitions are made on a willing seller basis with fair market value appraisals approved by the Department of General Services.
Is there a specific deadline?
This is a rolling application program with no fixed deadline. Submit applications year-round as opportunities present themselves.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Work closely with CDFW early in the process. Their biological evaluation and director approval are critical to funding success.
- Ensure your property aligns with CDFW and WCB's current conservation priorities before investing in the application.
- Budget 6 to 12 months for the evaluation and approval timeline. Start conversations with CDFW well in advance.
- Have a fair market value appraisal completed by a qualified appraiser certified by the Department of General Services.
- Document the property's ecological value clearly. CDFW's biological assessment is the foundation for funding recommendations.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applications fail when properties don't align with current CDFW/WCB conservation priorities or biological evaluation criteria. Many applicants underestimate the 6 to 12 month timeline and lose opportunities. Incomplete appraisals or unclear willing seller documentation delays funding decisions.
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