Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program

The Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program provides financial assistance to Indian Tribes, local governments, and qualified conservation non-profit organizations to acquire and establish community forests that provide community benefits. The program aims to protect forestland from conversion to non-forest uses and provide community benefits, including public recreation, environmental and economic benefits, and forest-based educational programs. Applicants must submit an application narrative, project maps, and eligibility verification. The application narrative should include a description of the proposed community forest, including the land to be acquired, community benefits, and long-term management plans. The project maps should display the project area and show the location of the property in relation to roads and other improvements. Eligibility verification should include a written description or documentation verifying that the applicant is an eligible entity. • The program provides financial assistance for the acquisition of private forest land. • The program aims to establish community forests that provide community benefits, including public recreation, environmental and economic benefits, and forest-based educational programs. • Applicants must submit an application narrative, project maps, and eligibility verification. • The application narrative should include a description of the proposed community forest, including the land to be acquired, community benefits, and long-term management plans. • The project maps should display the project area and show the location of the property in relation to roads and other improvements. • Eligibility verification should include a written description or documentation verifying that the applicant is an eligible entity.