Public Access

The Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) is offering the Public Access grant program to support planning and construction projects that expand wildlife‑oriented recreation and nature‑focused education across California. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and tribal governments, and projects must serve the statewide public, with particular emphasis on disadvantaged communities. Funding up to $3 million is available on a continuous basis, with a 5‑year performance period for awarded projects. No matching funds are required, though they can improve scoring. Applications are submitted online; a letter of intent is not required. • Eligible applicants: nonprofit, public agency, tribal government • Eligible geography: statewide (California) • Funding amount: total $3,000,000 (award count dependent) • Project focus: planning or construction of public access facilities (hiking, birdwatching, hunting, fishing, environmental education, etc.) • No mandatory cost‑share, but higher cost‑share improves evaluation score • Period of performance: 5 years • Application method: online portal (links provided) • Contact for questions: Erin Aquino‑Carhart (916) 212‑0691, Erin.Aquino‑[email protected]