CSFS opens competitive grant program to help communities reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health
By North Forty News Staff | NorthFortyNews.com
FORT COLLINS, Colo. – Communities, fire protection districts, nonprofits, tribal organizations, utilities and other eligible groups can now apply for a share of $7.04 million through the Colorado State Forest Service’s Forest Restoration and Wildfire Risk Mitigation (FRWRM) grant program.
The competitive program supports projects that reduce wildfire risk, improve forest health and protect homes, infrastructure and water supplies across Colorado through science-based forest management practices.
“Once again, in 2026, Colorado is experiencing multiple wildfires that have destroyed homes and businesses, endangered community health and taken lives,” said Colorado State Forester and CSFS Director Matt McCombs. “This season is one more solemn reminder that wildfire is a part of life in Colorado, which means being wildfire ready must be part of the Colorado way of life.”
McCombs said the grant program helps communities take action before wildfire strikes.
“The most effective time to reduce wildfire risk is before smoke is in the air,” McCombs said. “The FRWRM grant program helps communities, fire protection districts, nonprofits and local partners organize, plan and implement the forest interventions and wildfire mitigation work today that protects Colorado lives, homes and businesses tomorrow.”
The funding supports fuels reduction, forest health improvements and capacity-building projects that strengthen local wildfire mitigation efforts. Projects may take place on private, state, county or municipal forestlands.
Grant recipients must provide matching funds. Depending on project location, the state will cover either 50% or 75% of project costs, with recipients contributing the remaining 50% or 25% through cash or in-kind support. Reduced matching requirements are available for projects located in areas identified as having fewer economic resources in the Colorado Forest Atlas.
Applicants must coordinate proposed projects with county officials to ensure consistency with local wildfire risk reduction plans. The Colorado State Forest Service will also conduct project monitoring and site visits to evaluate treatment effectiveness.
Preference will be given to projects that:
- Leverage additional financial resources.
- Support local wildfire risk reduction efforts.
- Utilize accredited Colorado Youth or Veterans Corps organizations.
- Protect critical watersheds or infrastructure.
This year’s grant cycle introduces a new online grant management system that allows applicants to submit proposals, manage awards, and complete reporting requirements through a single platform.
Applications are due by 5 p.m. on Oct. 8, 2026. A technical advisory panel will review proposals, with funding awards scheduled to be announced on March 31, 2027.
Additional information about the Forest Restoration and Wildfire Risk Mitigation grant program is available through Colorado State Forest Service field offices and on the agency’s website.
Source: Colorado State Forest Service
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