The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal-FIRE) has announced a grant opportunity worth up to $5 million for Tribal Wildfire Resilience Projects. This funding aims to support California Native American tribes in managing ancestral lands, promoting Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), and improving wildfire safety for tribal communities.
Tribes and tribal-led non-profit organizations that meet the eligibility criteria can now apply for funding through the Tribal Wildfire Resilience Grants webpage. The deadline to submit applications is Friday, March 28, by 12:00 p.m.
Who Can Apply for the Grant?
Cal-FIRE encourages applications from:
California Native American tribes
Tribal-led non-profit organizations with proper documentation
This initiative aligns with California’s Wildfire & Forest Resilience Action Plan, helping tribal communities enhance fire resilience, restore ecosystems, and preserve traditional land stewardship practices.
Why This Grant Matters for California Tribes
The Tribal Wildfire Resilience Grants provide funding for projects focused on:
Cultural and prescribed fire management
Fuels reduction and forest resilience
Ecosystem restoration for culturally significant lands
Integrating Traditional Ecological Knowledge in fire management
Mapping, environmental compliance, and fire/forest management planning
According to Matthew Reischman, Cal-FIRE’s Deputy Director of Resource Management, these grants reflect Cal-FIRE’s commitment to:
Protecting tribal communities from wildfires Restoring ecosystems through traditional land stewardship Building a wildfire-resilient future for California
How This Funding Supports Climate Action & Rural Economies
Cal-FIRE emphasizes that these projects will enhance community resilience, mitigate climate change, and protect natural resources. By funding these initiatives, California aims to:
Reduce wildfire risks and improve air quality
Strengthen rural economies and create job opportunities
Revitalize Indigenous fire management techniques
Ensure water resource conservation and forest sustainability
Since 2023, Cal-FIRE has already awarded $24 million to support eligible projects. The first 12 funded projects are listed on their official webpage, and an additional five projects were supported in collaboration with the California Natural Resource Agency’s Tribal Nature-Based Solutions Program.
How to Apply for the Tribal Wildfire Resilience Grant
Application Deadline: Friday, March 28, 2025 (12:00 p.m.)
Where to Apply: Tribal Wildfire Resilience Grants webpage
Contact for Questions: TribalWildfireResilienceGrants@fire.ca.gov
Online office hours will be available throughout the application period, where Cal-FIRE’s Tribal Wildfire Resilience team will provide guidance on the application process and eligibility requirements.
Conclusion: A Step Toward Safer & Resilient Tribal Lands
By investing in Tribal Wildfire Resilience, California is taking a major step toward safeguarding Indigenous communities, protecting ecosystems, and fighting climate change. This funding opportunity empowers tribes to apply traditional land management practices while strengthening wildfire preparedness.
If you are part of a California Native American tribe or a tribal-led organization, don’t miss this chance to secure funding for wildfire resilience. Visit the Tribal Wildfire Resilience Grants webpage today and submit your application before March 28, 2025!
