Forest Legacy Program - FY2028 Funding
Description
The USDA Forest Service is requesting applications for the Forest Legacy Program (FLP), authorized by the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978, as amended ( 16 U.S.C. 2103 ) and funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). The Forest Legacy Program is a competitive grant program that is administered by the Forest Service in partnership with State agencies to encourage the permanent protection of privately owned forest lands through conservation easements or land purchases in support of state priorities, as described in each State Forest Action Plan. USDA Forest Service and States also cooperate with tribal and local governments, other Federal agencies, forest landowners, land trust organizations, and other partners to implement FLP. Landowner participation in the program is entirely voluntary. The purpose of the program is to identify and conserve environmentally important forestlands that are threatened by conversion to non-forest uses and provide the opportunity for continuation of traditional forest uses. Conservation of private forests through the Forest Legacy Program maintains a multitude of public benefits, including: opportunities to hunt, fish, and camp; clean and abundant drinking water; habitat for fish and wildlife; and timber, fuel wood, and other forest products. More information on the program and past awarded projects can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/private-land/forest-legacy .
Eligibility
See official grant page for eligibility requirements
Industry Tags
About This Grant
The USDA Forest Service is requesting applications for the Forest Legacy Program (FLP), authorized by the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978, as amended ( 16 U.S.C. 2103 ) and funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). The Forest Legacy Program is a competitive grant program that is administered by the Forest Service in partnership with State agencies to encourage the permanent protection of privately owned forest lands through conservation easements or land purchases in support of state priorities, as described in each State Forest Action Plan. USDA Forest Service and States also cooperate with tribal and local governments, other Federal agencies, forest landowners, land trust organizations, and other partners to implement FLP. Landowner participation in the program is entirely voluntary. The purpose of the program is to identify and conserve environmentally important forestlands that are threatened by conversion to non-forest uses and provide the opportunity for continuation of traditional forest uses. Conservation of private forests through the Forest Legacy Program maintains a multitude of public benefits, including: opportunities to hunt, fish, and camp; clean and abundant drinking water; habitat for fish and wildlife; and timber, fuel wood, and other forest products. More information on the program and past awarded projects can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/private-land/forest-legacy .
Funding Information
- Award Ceiling
- $20,000,000
- Award Floor
- $5,000
- Expected Number of Awards
- 12
Eligibility Overview
This opportunity from Forest Service is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Federal are especially encouraged to review the requirements.
Federal grant opportunities like this one are typically open to a range of applicant types. Common eligible organizations include:
- Nonprofits and 501(c)(3) organizations
- Small businesses and startups (especially for SBIR/STTR programs)
- State, local, and tribal governments
- Colleges, universities, and research institutions
- Individuals (for select programs in education, arts, and research)
Eligibility requirements vary by opportunity. Always review the official listing before investing time in an application.
How to Apply
- 1
Review the full opportunity
Read the complete Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for this Forest Service program on its official page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/363363).
- 2
Confirm eligibility
Check that your organization meets every requirement set by Forest Service — applicant type, location, registration status, and any prior-award restrictions.
- 3
Prepare required documents
Gather your budget narrative, needs statement, organizational details, SAM.gov registration, and any required certifications.
- 4
Submit before the deadline
This opportunity closes on September 11, 2026. Submit at least 48 hours early — portal systems are often slow near closing time.
Grant Writing Tips
Proposals for federal programs such as those from Forest Service are competitive — these tips can strengthen your application:
- ✓Start your application at least 4 weeks before the deadline — rushed proposals score lower.
- ✓Tailor your needs statement to match the funder's stated priorities, using their exact language where possible.
- ✓Have a colleague outside your team review your budget narrative before submitting — fresh eyes catch errors reviewers penalize.
More Grants from Forest Service
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Forest Legacy Program - FY2028 Funding?
This opportunity from Forest Service is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Federal are especially encouraged to review the requirements. Always confirm the full eligibility criteria on the official listing before applying.
How much funding does Forest Legacy Program - FY2028 Funding provide?
Award amounts for Forest Legacy Program - FY2028 Funding range from $5,000 to $20,000,000.
When is the deadline for Forest Legacy Program - FY2028 Funding?
The application deadline for Forest Legacy Program - FY2028 Funding is September 11, 2026. Submit at least 48 hours early to avoid last-minute portal issues.
How do I apply for Forest Legacy Program - FY2028 Funding?
Apply for Forest Legacy Program - FY2028 Funding through the official grant page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/363363). Confirm your eligibility and prepare your application materials before the deadline.
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