Colorado State Forest Service launches natural resources grants database

The Colorado State Forest Service has just launched a comprehensive grants and assistance database for community groups, landowners, government agencies, nonprofit organizations and others to search for programs that promote the health and welfare of Colorado’s natural resources.

The online Natural Resources Grants and Assistance Database offers a free, searchable index of grant opportunities that pertain to many natural resources topics; examples include agroforestry, education, forest restoration, research, urban forestry and wildfire mitigation. In addition to offering information on programs administered through the CSFS, the database includes opportunities sponsored by federal, state and private organizations that are relevant to Colorado and its residents.

“This database was developed largely in response to suggestions from our cooperators, who expressed the need for a centralized resource that helps them identify funding opportunities to achieve their forest stewardship goals,” said Mike Lester, state forester and director of the CSFS. “Ultimately, their actions will help protect Colorado’s diverse natural resources, which are important to recreation and tourism, water and air quality, and local and state economies.”

The database currently includes more than 50 active grant and assistance programs, and will be updated as new programs become available. This resource focuses primarily on opportunities for Colorado; however, funding opportunities also may apply regionally, nationally or, in some cases, internationally.

After identifying a program of interest, users can access detailed information on each grant or assistance opportunity, including:

• general program description and eligibility requirements;
• deadlines and how to apply;
• required match or cost-share;
• links to detailed program information; and
• relevant contact information.

To access the database, visit the CSFS website at csfs.colostate.edu and click on “Funding Assistance.” The tool is free, and users are not required to register or create a password to access the system.