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Community Forest & Open Space Conservation Program (CFP)
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Program level:
State
Provider:
U.S. Forest Service
Benefits provided:
Free technical assistance, Financial
Land use:
Forest
Water-focused program:
Yes
Competitive grant program that provides financial assistance directly to Tribes, local units of government, and qualified conservation non-profit organizations to acquire and establish community forests that provide community benefits (economic benefits through active forest management, clean water, wildlife habitat, educational opportunities, and public access for recreation.)
Overview
Description:
The Community Forest Program (CFP) of the Forest Service offers a unique opportunity for communities to acquire and conserve forests that provide public access and recreational opportunities, protect vital water supplies and wildlife habitat, serve as demonstration sites for private forest landowners, and provide economic benefits from timber and non-timber products.
Eligibility:
To be eligible for purchase, land must be:
- Privately owned forestland
- Threatened by conversion to non-forest use
- Not held in trust by the United States
- Must provide defined community benefits
- Must be at least five acres in size, suitable to sustain natural vegetation
- At least 75 percent forested
Who is eligible to receive funding:
Federally Recognized Indian Tribes (including Alaska Native Corporations), local governmental entities, or qualified nonprofit organizations that are qualified to acquire and manage land. Individuals are not eligible to receive funds through this program.
Click on "Link to full program details" for program projects and partners, and to learn how the project works.
Financial benefit:
The CFP can pay up to 50 percent of the total allowable project costs with a maximum grant request of $600,000. A 50% non-federal cost-share is required. The match can include cash, in-kind services, or donations from a non-Federal source.
Individual grant applications may not exceed $600,000.
Contact information
Information last updated on July 15, 2025.
Planning Importance
Developing a forest, agricultural, or conservation plan helps identify and prioritize objectives for landowners. These objectives can determine what type programs to search for. Supporting organizations in your area often provide free consultation and planning.
Landscape Characteristics
See how your land fits into the broader context of regional conservation, ecosystem services, and working lands' values across the landscape through our interactive mapper tool. It could help you determine which program is a good fit for you!
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