Description
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) is offering grants for the permanent protection of forest reserves in Massachusetts. The goal of the program is to conserve forested lands, allowing natural processes to determine forest structure and composition, and contributing to carbon sequestration and storage as part of the state's climate mitigation strategy. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, municipalities, and other qualified conservation organizations. The maximum grant award is $425,000, and the reimbursement rate is 50%.
• Eligible projects include the purchase of forested land in fee simple or a conservation restriction (CR) for conservation and climate change mitigation and resiliency.
• Applications will be evaluated based on landscape considerations, ecological contributions, size, public passive recreational access, and project readiness and suitability.
• A detailed budget and appraisal report(s) are required as part of the application package.
• The application deadline is February 6, 2026, and awards are expected to be announced at a later date.