Program Objective(s):

This program is designed to encourage private forestland owners to actively manage their forest ecosystems and to develop long-term management plans that will enhance the understanding of forest systems, while at the same time providing outreach and education to all citizens about stewardship of our natural resources.

Criteria:

Proposals considered will be for projects that include management plans for school and municipal forests, outreach and education projects, demonstration areas and ecosystem projects. All proposals MUST include a component or specifically target the non-industrial private landowner.

Eligibility:

Local units of government, individuals, nonprofit organizations, and school districts with school forests. Grant funds cannot be used as substitutions for existing program expenditures and may not be used to purchase equipment. A 50% match is required, with a detailed budget prepared that identifies the source of the match dollars.

Application Process:

Applications are announced each fall, submitted to the Forest Resources Division and then reviewed by Division staff. Applications are approved, adjusted or denied. Applicants are notified and agreements signed.

Deadline(s):

Applications due annually each fall. Fiscal year 2011 applications must be received by COB on November 15, 2011 to be considered.

Timeline:

Project duration is approximately one year.

Dollar Amount(s) Available:

Grant requests may be up to $15,000

Source(s) of Funds:

U. S. Department of Agriculture - Forest Service

Authority:

Authorized by the 2008 Farm Bill, annual funding provided by the USDA Forest Service

Contact(s):

Forest Resources Division/Shawna Patterson Meyer (517-335-3355), meyers6@michigan.gov

Fiscal Year 2011 Appropriation:

Approximately $25,000 for grants