CDFW Newshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/NewsGeorge H.W. Bush Vamos A Pescar Education Fund Awards Grants to Four Programs in Californiahttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/george-hw-bush-vamos-a-pescar-education-fund-awards-grants-to-four-programs-in-californiaR3Tue, 12 Mar 2024 13:42:56 GMTThe Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF) and CDFW announced the 2024 grantees for the George H.W. Bush Vamos A Pescar Education Fund. Approximately $172,800 in funding will help 12 programs in Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Kansas and Rhode Island to bring fishing, boating and aquatic stewardship education opportunities to Hispanic families.<p>The Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF) and California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) announced the 2024 grantees for the <a href="https://www.takemefishing.org/educationfund/" target="_blank">George H.W. Bush Vamos A Pescar Education Fund</a>. Approximately $172,800 in funding will help 12 programs in Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Kansas and Rhode Island to bring fishing, boating and aquatic stewardship education opportunities to Hispanic families. Four California organizations were selected as recipients and will receive a total of $76,346.30 in funding. The 2024 California Vamos A Pescar Education Fund recipients are: <a href="https://casthope.org/" target="_blank">Cast Hope</a>, <a href="https://www.friendsoffish.org/" target="_blank">Friends of Fish</a>, <a href="https://www.reelguppyoutdoors.com/" target="_blank">Reel Guppy Outdoors</a> and <a href="https://www.solidaritynpo.org/" target="_blank">Solidarity.</a></p> <p>The California organizations chosen for funding provide urban-centric, mutigenerational inclusive events open to families of all races and ethnicities with Spanish-English bilingual instruction, materials and outreach. The grantees focus on providing multiple opportunities to introduce participants to fishing, boating and aquatic stewardship in California. This grant program is part of CDFW’s ongoing angler recruitment, retention and reactivation (R3) efforts to decrease barriers to participation and increase awareness and support for conservation activities across the state.</p> <p>The funding for Vamos a Pescar is made available from the George H.W. Bush Vamos A Pescar Education Fund and <a href="https://www.fws.gov/program/sport-fish-restoration" target="_blank">Sport Fish Restoration Act</a> (SFRA) funds.</p> <p>The George H.W. Bush Education Fund supports the RBFF’s Hispanic initiative, Vamos a Pescar. To further the reach and facilitate partnerships at the local level, funds are provided for state agencies to match and sub grant to local 501(c)(3) organizations. With the help of donations from companies and organizations, this fund has continued to grow and expand nationally to keep future generations educated about the joys of fishing and boating and the importance of conservation.</p> <p>SFRA is a self-imposed angler and boater excise tax that provides funding to state fish and wildlife agencies. Modeled after the Wildlife Restoration Act, a need for dedicated permanent funding was identified for fishery conservation and the SFRA was established. The excise tax is placed on sport fishing equipment, import duties on fishing tackle and boats and a portion of gasoline fuel tax from small engines and boats. The funding provided is utilized in fishery projects, boating access, aquatic education and more, all aiming to connect people with outdoor recreational angling opportunities and aquatic education programs.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contact:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Taylor.williams@wildlife.ca.gov" target="_blank">Taylor Williams</a>, CDFW R3 Manager, (916) 203-1362</em></p> CDFW Awards $14 Million for Salmon, Steelhead Habitat Restoration Projectshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/cdfw-awards-14-million-for-salmon-steelhead-habitat-restoration-projectsSalmonTue, 12 Dec 2023 16:04:32 GMTCDFW today announced the selection of 26 projects that will receive a collective $14 million to protect, restore and enhance the freshwater habitats of salmon and steelhead in northern California.<p>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) today announced the selection of 26 projects that will receive a collective $14 million to protect, restore and enhance the freshwater habitats of salmon and steelhead in northern California.</p> <p>Trout Unlimited, Inc. was awarded more than $2 million for the Duffy Gulch Fish Passage Improvement Project in Mendocino County. This project will remove a railroad stream crossing along the Mendocino Railway and restore fish access to nearly three miles of high-quality spawning and rearing habitat in Duffy Gulch, a tributary to the Noyo River. The new crossing will be a 45-foot diameter steel arch that will allow fish passage and is capable of handling a 100-year flood event.</p> <p>All projects were awarded through CDFW’s Fisheries Restoration Grant Program (FRGP). FRGP was first established in 1981 and since 2000, has included funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund. The fund was created by Congress to reverse the declines of Pacific salmon and steelhead throughout California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Alaska. This award also includes funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act to help support the recovery, conservation, and resilience of Pacific salmon and steelhead.</p> <p>“California’s salmon continue to face the challenges of both past and present, through countless legacy impacts to fish passage and growing climate-driven threats to their seasonal cycles,” said CDFW Director Charlton H. Bonham. “In the face of these grim challenges, we find optimism and hope through projects like these, which will restore access to miles of river habitat and acres of floodplain, greatly improving the productivity and sustainably of fish populations.”</p> <p><strong>Other Awarded Project Highlights</strong></p> <p><strong>California Conservation Corps Watershed Stewards Program 2023</strong><br /> (Nearly $700,000 Awarded to California Conservation Corps Watershed Stewards Program in partnership with AmeriCorps)</p> <p>The California Conservation Corps Watershed Stewards Program in Partnership with AmeriCorps will enlist 44 Corps members throughout coastal California to enhance watersheds that support salmon, steelhead and other types of migrating fish through restoration and protection, community education and recruiting volunteers for hands-on projects.</p> <p><strong>Lagunitas Creek Coho Habitat Enhancement Plan</strong><br /> (Nearly $600,000 Awarded to the Marin Municipal Water District)</p> <p>This project will fully fund the design, permitting and environmental review for Phase 2 of the Lagunitas Creek Coho Habitat Enhancement Plan. Phase 2 consists of five enhancement sites located within Samuel P. Taylor State Park in Marin County. This project has also been funded through CDFW Proposition 1 and Proposition 68 grants in collaboration with Marin Water and California State Parks since 2020.</p> <p>In response to the 2023 Fisheries Habitat Restoration Grant Solicitation, CDFW received 35 proposals requesting more than $23 million in funding. The proposals underwent a thorough technical review involving subject matter experts from CDFW and NOAA.</p> <p>The complete list of approved projects is available on the <a href="/Grants/FRGP/Funded">Fisheries Restoration Grant Program</a> website.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>CDFW Photo: </strong>Fish passage structure to be replaced.</em></p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:matt.wells@wildlife.ca.gov">Matt Wells</a>, Watershed Restoration Grants Branch, (916) 216-7848<br /> <a href="mailto:steve.gonzalez@wildlife.ca.gov">Steve Gonzalez</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 804-1714</em></p> Wildlife Conservation Board Names Jennifer Norris Executive Directorhttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/wildlife-conservation-board-names-jennifer-norris-executive-directorWildlife Conservation BoardMon, 16 Oct 2023 10:38:37 GMTThe Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) today announced Dr. Jennifer Norris as its new Executive Director.<p><em><strong>California Natural Resources Agency Deputy Secretary Becomes First Female Executive Director in 76-Year History of WCB</strong></em></p> <p>The Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) today announced Dr. Jennifer Norris as its new Executive Director.</p> <p>“I’m thrilled for the Wildlife Conservation Board and Dr. Norris,” said California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot. “The Board’s work has never been more important as we aim to conserve 30 percent of California’s lands by 2030, protect our world-renowned biodiversity, expand equitable access to the great outdoors, and better manage our lands to combat climate change. Dr. Norris’ remarkable career as a federal scientist delivering innovative conservation projects at scale, combined with her recent leadership enabling such projects to happen more quickly and effectively through state agencies, makes her the perfect leader to guide the Board into the future. I’m excited about what the Board will accomplish under Dr. Norris’ leadership.”</p> <p>Norris arrives from the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) where she served as Deputy Secretary for Biodiversity and Habitat since 2020. At CNRA, Norris led <a href="https://www.californianature.ca.gov/pages/30x30" target="_blank">California’s 30x30 initiative</a> to conserve 30 percent of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030 and oversaw the <a href="https://resources.ca.gov/Initiatives/Cutting-Green-Tape" target="_blank">Cutting Green Tape initiative</a> to accelerate the pace and scale of ecological restoration.</p> <figure class="img-left" style="width:"><img alt="Portrait of Jennifer Norris" src="/Portals/0/Images/OCEO/News/JenniferNorrisPortrait.jpg" /> <figcaption><strong>Dr. Jennifer Norris</strong></figcaption> </figure> <p>“Over its 76-year history, the Wildlife Conservation Board has made an indelible mark on biodiversity protection in California,” said Norris. “I am incredibly honored to be chosen to lead WCB in a time when conservation is needed more than ever. I look forward to working with the outstanding Board and staff to expand partnerships with tribes and redefine outdoor equity, while protecting even more of California’s incredible nature.”</p> <p>When Norris assumes her new role on November 1, she will manage day-to-day operations and support WCB’s seven-member Board, which consists of the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the President of the Fish and Game Commission, the Director of the Department of Finance, and four public members.</p> <p>“As the first public member Chair in WCB’s history, the 75th Anniversary marks an unprecedented opportunity to build and expand on WCB’s conservation legacy,” said Alina Bokde, Chair of the Wildlife Conservation Board. “Jen is the right leader at the right time to envision and advance California’s conservation movement to be inclusive, diverse and lead with a bold focus on equity and access.”</p> <p>The primary responsibilities of WCB are to select, authorize and allocate funds for the protection, conservation, and restoration of fish and wildlife habitat and related public recreation. These investments have created recreational opportunities for millions of Californians, protected and created essential habitat for threatened and endangered species and preserved iconic landscapes for future generations to enjoy.</p> <p>In its 76-year history, WCB has had six executive directors, and Norris becomes the first female to fill the role. She replaces John Donnelly, who retired in March 2023. Norris has extensive experience in conservation policy, endangered species protection and ecosystem management. Prior to joining CNRA, she served as Supervisor of the Sacramento Office of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. She has held numerous roles in state and federal government over the years.</p> <p>Norris holds a bachelor’s degree in resources policy and planning from Cornell University, a master’s degree in conservation biology from the University of Michigan, and a Ph.D. in ecology from the University of New Mexico. A native of New York State, Norris lives in Sacramento with her husband Scott and occasionally sees their grown children Jessica and Daniel. For more information about the WCB, please visit <a href="https://wcb.ca.gov/" target="_blank">wcb.ca.gov</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contact:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Mark.Topping@wildlife.ca.gov">Mark Topping</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 539-4673<br /> <a href="mailto:rebecca.fris@wildlife.ca.gov">Rebecca Fris</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 212-5637</em></p> CDFW Announces Availability of $8.6 million in Grant Funding for Improving Boating Access Statewidehttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/cdfw-announces-availability-of-86-million-in-grant-funding-for-improving-boating-access-statewideOutreachMon, 18 Sep 2023 16:12:30 GMTCDFW has announced the availability of up to $8.6 million in funding for projects to improve public access for recreational boaters statewide.<p>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has announced the availability of up to $8.6 million in funding for projects to improve public access for recreational boaters statewide. CDFW’s <a href="/Grants/Boating-Access">Boating Access Grant Program</a> will reimburse the costs of projects that seek to acquire, develop, renovate, maintain or improve facilities that create or enhance public access to California waters or advance the suitability of waters for recreational boating.</p> <p>CDFW is accepting proposals through Nov. 3 for the 2023-2024 Boating Access Grant Program. CDFW will also hold a <a href="https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=215113&inline" target="_blank">Public Solicitation Workshop on Oct. 4, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. (PDF)</a>. to provide an overview of the program including eligible activities, program requirements and the grant process.</p> <p>“California’s waterways, from our coastline to majestic lakes and a vast network of rivers, provide unparalleled recreational opportunities for every boater,” said CDFW Director Charlton H. Bonham. “Ensuring safe and reliable access for our anglers and every boater statewide remains a high priority.”</p> <p>Supported with federal funds through the <a href="https://www.fws.gov/program/boating-access" target="_blank">U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Sport Fish Restoration Grant Program</a>, funding for the program comes from revenue via taxes on sport fishing equipment, fishing tackle, pleasure boats and the portion of the gasoline fuel tax attributable to small engines and motorboats. The Boating Access Program provides funding for a broad range of access facilities and associated amenities that benefit recreational boaters. To find out more about eligible activities please visit <a href="/Grants/Boating-Access">wildlife.ca.gov/Grants/Boating-Access.</a><span style="font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"></span></p> <p>Project activities eligible for Boating Access grant funds include:</p> <ul> <li>Planning, permitting, design and construction of boating access facilities.</li> <li>Amenities for boaters including compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act at boating access facilities: <ul> <li>Launching and landing facilities for paddle craft and non-motorized boats.</li> <li>Outreach to boaters about available boating access and amenities.</li> <li>Aquatic invasive species information and education (inspection but not enforcement).</li> <li>Vegetation management related to boater access.</li> <li>Pump out facilities for vessels with on-board sanitary holding tanks.</li> <li>Fueling docks for boaters.</li> <li>Potable water supplies for boaters.</li> <li>Dinghy docks.</li> </ul> </li> <li>Operation and maintenance of boating access facilities.</li> <li>Administration and coordination of boating access programs (including personnel, travel, training and planning)</li> <li>Maintenance and operations projects for boating access sites, facilities and structures.</li> </ul> <p>For questions on CDFW’s Boating Access Grant Program, please email <a href="mailto:boatingaccess@wildlife.ca.gov">boatingaccess@wildlife.ca.gov</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts</strong>:<br /> <a href="mailto:matt.wells@wildlife.ca.gov">Matt Wells,</a> CDFW Watershed Restoration Grant Branch, (916) 216-7848<br /> <a href="mailto:steve.gonzalez@wildlife.ca.gov">Steve Gonzalez,</a> CDFW Communications, (916) 804-1714</em></p> CDFW Announces $20.4 Million in Grant Funding to Protect Salmon Habitat and Other California Fish and Wildlife Species Statewidehttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/cdfw-announces-204-million-in-grant-funding-to-protect-salmon-habitat-and-other-california-fish-and-wildlife-species-statewideSalmonThu, 25 May 2023 15:19:16 GMTThe California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is pleased to announce $20.4 million in awards to 15 projects to improve salmon habitat and support climate resiliency, wildlife corridors and wetlands restoration.<p>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is pleased to announce $20.4 million in awards to 15 projects to improve salmon habitat and support climate resiliency, wildlife corridors and wetlands restoration. This is the third round of grant awards made in 2023 with funding made available last year under <a href="https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Watersheds/Restoration-Grants/Concept-Application">Drought, Climate and Nature-Based Solutions Initiatives</a>, bringing the total grant funding awarded to nearly $80 million.</p> <p>“As climate driven challenges to California’s biodiversity continue to grow and shift, our own strategies for new projects must adapt,” said CDFW Director Charlton H. Bonham. “Saving salmon and rebuilding their populations for Californians is the goal and we are meeting these challenges head on.”</p> <p>CDFW has developed a single set of General Grant Program Guidelines to get restoration completed faster. CDFW continues to accept applications for new projects and make awards on an ongoing basis. An overview of eligible project types, priorities and information is available at <a href="http://www.wildlife.ca.gov/grants" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.wildlife.ca.gov/grants</a>.</p> <p><strong>Protecting Species and Habitats Statewide</strong></p> <p>Projects awarded with Drought for Salmon Protection and Wildlife Corridors funds will support planning and implementation of projects to enhance habitat for salmon through removing barriers to fish passage, restoring flows and providing critical habitat for juvenile rearing salmonids.</p> <p>Within CDFW’s Inland Desert Region, two new projects supported with Addressing Climate Impact funds will also focus on the effects of climate-driven weather whiplash on both the arroyo toad and the desert salamander.</p> <p>Throughout central and northern California, Wetlands and Mountain Meadows funds will support projects to restore and enhance floodplains, wetlands and mountain meadows to benefit fish and wildlife species and their habitat. Work will include enhancing waterfowl habitat on Battle Creek in Shasta County. </p> <p><a href="https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/a2f521824768491392f94ab5113db452" target="_blank">View all projects awarded today online</a>.</p> <p><strong>Increasing Pace and Scale of Restoration</strong></p> <p>In the past 90 days, CDFW has awarded a total of just under $80 million to 53 projects statewide from the $200 million in new initiatives made available this year. CDFW has streamlined the processes for applying for funding, reviewing and finalizing awards, and getting agreements in place so projects can start without delays. Projects awarded in March and April of 2023 have agreements in place and are currently starting work.</p> <p><a href="https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Watersheds/Cutting-Green-Tape">CDFW’s Cutting the Green Tape Program</a> has streamlined the grant process and continues to improve permitting and environmental review of restoration projects statewide.</p> <ul> <li>The First Slough Fish Passage, Floodplain Restoration and Coastal Habitat Connectivity Project, awarded grant funds in this round, is moving forward with implementation with the support of a recent concurrence through <a href="https://wildlife.ca.gov/Cutting-Green-Tape/SERP">CDFW’s Statutory Exemption for Restoration Projects</a> process.</li> <li>The Bull Creek Hamilton Floodplain Restoration Project, also awarded funding in this round, recently worked with the Cutting the Green Tape program to secure a streamlined <a href="https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Watersheds/Cutting-Green-Tape/RMP">Restoration Management Permit</a>.</li> </ul> <p>These two project efficiencies alone have saved an estimated $100,000 and countless hours which can now be diverted to more restoration.</p> <p>The pace and scale of CDFW grant funding has also been led by sister agencies including the Wildlife Conservation Board, who in the first two months of 2023 awarded just under $70 million in block grants and another $59 million to individual projects for the enhancement and protection of California biodiversity.</p> <p>###</p> <p><strong>Background</strong></p> <p>This grant funding supports key initiatives including conserving 30 percent of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030 under California’s 30x30 initiative, Nature-Based Solutions and increasing the pace and scale of restoration through Cutting Green Tape.</p> <p>More information about these funding opportunities, including guidelines and how to apply, general information about CDFW’s grant programs, as well as a schedule for upcoming grant solicitations, once available, can be found at <a href="http://www.wildlife.ca.gov/grants">www.wildlife.ca.gov/grants</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><strong>Media contacts</strong>:<br /> <a href="mailto:Matt.Wells@wildlife.ca.gov">Matt Wells</a>, CDFW Watershed Restoration Grant Branch, (916) 216-7848<br /> <a href="mailto:Jordan.Traverso@wildlife.ca.gov">Jordan Traverso</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 212-7352</p> CDFW Holding Public Workshops in Central and Southern California to Promote Grant Funding Opportunitieshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/cdfw-holding-public-workshops-in-central-and-southern-california-to-promote-grant-funding-opportunitiesGrantsTue, 09 May 2023 15:39:50 GMTCDFW’s Restoration Grant Program is holding two in-person workshops in central and Southern California to provide information on various grant funding opportunities and the application process.<p><strong>Who:</strong> The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW)</p> <p><strong>What: </strong>CDFW’s Restoration Grant Program is holding two in-person workshops in central and Southern California to provide information on various grant funding opportunities and the application process. Staff will present information on permitting tools available through the Cutting the Green Tape Program and the recently formed Cannabis Restoration Grant Program (CRGP).</p> <p><strong>When and Where: </strong><a href="https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=211242&inline" target="_blank">On May 11, an in-person/virtual workshop will be held in Ventura (PDF) </a>at the County of Ventura, 800 S. Victoria Ave, Lower Plaza Assembly Room from 2:30 to 5 p.m. For the virtual option, click on the link above.</p> <p><a href="https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=211243&inline" target="_blank">On May 12, an in-person workshop will be held in San Luis Obispo (PDF)</a> at the California Conservation Corps, 1530 Madera Ave., Dining Hall Room from 10 a.m. to noon.</p> <p><strong>Why:</strong> In 2022, CDFW’s Restoration Grant Program <a href="https://wildlife.ca.gov/News/cdfw-announces-the-availability-of-200-million-in-new-grant-funding-under-drought-climate-and-nature-based-solutions-initiatives#gsc.tab=0">announced the availability of $200 million in new funding opportunities</a>, including $100 million in emergency drought funding for protecting salmon against drought and climate change. Funding under the Addressing Climate Impacts and Nature-Based Solutions initiatives provides support for projects addressing water and habitat impacted by climate change, as well as restoring wetlands and mountain meadows, and creating wildlife corridors. This funding also supports key initiatives including <a href="https://www.californianature.ca.gov/pages/30x30" target="_blank">conserving 30 percent</a> of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030, while increasing the pace and scale of projects through the Cutting Green Tape Initiative. More information about these funding opportunities can be found at <a href="www.wildlife.ca.gov/grants">www.wildlife.ca.gov/grants</a>.</p> <p>CRGP is committed to promoting ecosystem restoration and ecological health in collaboration with a diversity of stakeholders. In 2023, CRGP announced $20 million in funding opportunities for Tribes, public agencies and non-profit organizations interested in restoring ecosystem function, improving habitat connectivity and assisting cultivators to become fully licensed. CRGP funded projects include enhancing fish and wildlife habitat for listed and sensitive species, restoring ecological resilience, improving water conservation and irrigation efficiency, sustainable agriculture practices and road improvement projects that reduce sedimentation. You can learn more about <a href="https://wildlife.ca.gov/News/cdfws-cannabis-grant-program-announces-availability-of-over-20-million-in-funding-for-qualified-cultivator-and-watershed-enhancement-projects#gsc.tab=0">recent funding opportunities through CRGP’s latest announcement</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Janice.Mackey@wildlife.ca.gov">Janice Mackey</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 207-7891<br /> <a href="mailto:Lauren.Barva@wildlife.ca.gov">Lauren Barva</a>, CDFW Grant Program, (916) 376-8637</em></p> CDFW Provides Nearly $36 Million for Projects to Save Salmon and Other California Fish and Wildlife Specieshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/cdfw-provides-nearly-36-million-for-projects-to-save-salmon-and-other-california-fish-and-wildlife-speciesSalmonThu, 13 Apr 2023 08:20:24 GMTThe California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) today announced nearly $36 million in projects to benefit salmon and their habitats, and to further support climate resiliency, wildlife corridors and wetlands restoration.<p>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) today announced nearly $36 million in projects to benefit salmon and their habitats, and to further support climate resiliency, wildlife corridors and wetlands restoration.</p> <p>Saving salmon and rebuilding their populations for future Californians involves many key actions including investing in and restoring salmon strongholds as climate refugia, increasing partnerships, working with Tribes, doing more large-scale restoration at a faster pace, modernizing old infrastructure and creating fish passage around migration barriers. Today’s awards invest in those types of salmon projects.</p> <p><strong>Salmon Strongholds: the Klamath, Scott and Shasta Rivers</strong></p> <p>CDFW is awarding $20 million in Drought Emergency Salmon Protection Grants to 10 projects demonstrating support from and collaboration with Tribes and landowner interests in the Shasta and Scott rivers and their watersheds. These include habitat improvement, removal of barriers to fish passage and groundwater recharge projects. CDFW is also awarding $9 million from the same fund to Tribes in the Klamath River mainstem for post-McKinney Fire debris flow damage remediation, slope and sediment stabilization, and restoration for salmonids.</p> <p>“These projects will help us save our struggling salmon populations,” said CDFW Director Charlton H. Bonham. “The Klamath, Scott and Shasta rivers are historic salmon strongholds where this kind of restoration investment will make a big impact. Rebuilding these watersheds and reconnecting salmon within them is one step further toward salmon recovery. The investments to support these 10 projects is happening in parallel to the largest river restoration in America’s history now underway to <a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2022/12/08/75829/" target="_blank">remove four dams on the mainstem Klamath River</a>.”</p> <p><a href="https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/ffb92ef638274580a9a58c1efb265c01" target="_blank">View these projects online</a>.</p> <p><strong>Climate Resiliency and Nature-Based Solutions</strong></p> <p>Additionally, CDFW is awarding $6.9 million to nine projects to further support nature-based solutions, climate resiliency, wildlife corridors and wetlands restoration.</p> <p>“Each week, each month that passes by on the calendar, California’s climate challenges increase, change and present a need to implement projects designed to keep pace,” Bonham said. “We are matching this pace with ongoing funding commitments to new projects, moving away from a once-a-year announcement of awards to fund more projects, toward sustained momentum.”</p> <p>Projects funded with these grants will go toward planning and implementation of wetlands and mountain meadows including expanding habitat for Lahontan cutthroat trout habitat on the Upper Truckee River, addressing urgent degrading water and habitat conditions due to climate change impacts in Shasta and Sonoma counties, and creating habitat connectivity through wildlife corridors funding for species such as Clear Lake hitch and newts, among other projects.</p> <p><a href="https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/fe65083f824b4356b684219c1a4fc779" target="_blank">View these projects online</a>.</p> <p><strong>Next Steps</strong></p> <p>These projects will soon commence work. Meanwhile, CDFW will continue to accept applications for new projects and make awards on an ongoing basis with an emphasis on a strategic approach to rebuild salmon and other species by removing barriers to migration, improving water management and quality, restoring core salmon strongholds, taking substantial steps to modernize older infrastructure for salmon-friendly results and other actions.</p> <p><strong>Background</strong></p> <p>In late 2022 CDFW announced the availability of <a href="https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Watersheds/Restoration-Grants/Concept-Application">$200 million in new funding</a> for restoration, including $100 million in emergency drought funding for protecting salmon against drought and climate change. Funding under the Addressing Climate Impacts and Nature-Based Solutions initiatives provides grant funding for projects addressing water and habitat impacted by climate, as well as restoring wetlands and mountain meadows, and creating wildlife corridors. On March 7, 2023, <a href="https://wildlife.ca.gov/News/cdfw-announces-225-million-to-benefit-salmon-and-support-critical-habitat-projects-statewide#gsc.tab=0">CDFW announced its first round of awards totaling $22.5 million for 19 projects from this funding</a>.</p> <p>This funding also supports key initiatives including conserving 30 percent of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030 under California’s 30x30 initiative, Nature-Based Solutions and increasing the pace and scale of restoration through Cutting Green Tape.</p> <p>California must get more restoration done at a faster pace. To achieve that goal, CDFW has developed a single set of General Grant Program Guidelines with an overview of eligible project types, priorities and information on the application process, available at <a href="http://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Watersheds/Restoration-Grants/Concept-Application">www.wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Watersheds/Restoration-Grants/Concept-Application</a>. Applications submitted under these new initiatives may also be considered for further evaluation under CDFW’s Proposition 1 and Proposition 68 Grant Programs, and a separate call for projects will also be released for these programs in Spring 2023.</p> <p>More information about these funding opportunities, including guidelines and how to apply, general information about CDFW’s grant programs, as well as a schedule for upcoming grant solicitations, once available, can be found at <a href="http://www.wildlife.ca.gov/grants">www.wildlife.ca.gov/grants</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Matt.Wells@wildlife.ca.gov">Matt Wells</a>, CDFW Watershed Restoration Grant Branch, (916) 216-7848<br /> <a href="mailto:Jordan.Traverso@wildlife.ca.gov">Jordan Traverso</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 212-7352</em></p> CDFW Announces $22.5 Million to Benefit Salmon and Support Critical Habitat Projects Statewidehttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/cdfw-announces-225-million-to-benefit-salmon-and-support-critical-habitat-projects-statewideHabitat RestorationTue, 07 Mar 2023 11:12:51 GMTThe California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) today announced the award of $22.5 million to 19 projects to support the restoration of critical habitat for salmon, climate resiliency, wildlife corridors and wetlands restoration.<p>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) today announced the award of $22.5 million to 19 projects to support the restoration of critical habitat for salmon, climate resiliency, wildlife corridors and wetlands restoration.</p> <p>“This initial round of awards represents a commitment to hit the ground running to support restoration and protection of our species, and I look forward to more announcements like this in the very near future,” said CDFW Director Charlton H. Bonham. “We must stand up as many new projects in a short period of time to make this critical habitat more resilient to the ever-changing climate.”</p> <p><strong>Protecting Salmon</strong><br /> CDFW has awarded more than $8.2 million to eight projects in watersheds throughout the state to address drought impacts for salmon in rivers and streams important to their lifecycle. Some projects will restore riparian habitat and fix unscreened water diversions. The largest project awarded under this round will be led by the Yurok Tribe within the Oregon Gulch section of the Upper Trinity River where remnants of hydraulic mining have narrowed the river and lead to a loss of salmon rearing habitat. This project will reestablish the natural flow of the river as well as a functioning floodplain to greatly improve habitat for salmon across various life stages.</p> <p><strong>Addressing Climate Impacts</strong><br /> Approximately $6.6 million was awarded to seven new projects to address urgent degrading water and habitat conditions due to climate change impacts. These projects include a focus on winter-run Chinook, improving the diversity of hatchery winter-run, as well as juvenile salmon collection system evaluation for re-introducing this species in the McCloud River above the Shasta Dam. Other projects will restore hydrologic function to floodplain habitat in the Sierra Nevada and monitor drought conditions for Chinook and coho salmon in the Scott River in Siskiyou County.</p> <p><strong>Wildlife Corridor – Fish Passage</strong><br /> Wildlife corridors are essential to providing fish and wildlife room to roam, or in this case, swim. CDFW awarded more than $6.5 million to three fish passage projects that will modify bridges and remove other barriers to fish passage in northern and central California.</p> <p><strong>Beavers, or Something Like Them</strong><br /> Approximately $1.2 million was awarded to Regents of UC Davis to work toward incorporating beaver dam analogs in the restoration of wetlands and mountain meadows.</p> <p><a href="https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Watersheds/Restoration-Grants/Awards">Learn more about the awarded projects</a>.</p> <p><strong>Next Steps</strong><br /> These projects will soon commence work. These awards are part of a new effort to support critical restoration statewide with $200 million in new funding for multi-benefit ecosystem restoration and protection projects under Drought, Climate and Nature Based Solutions Initiatives.</p> <p>CDFW will announce additional awards throughout the month of March, with an emphasis on a strategic approach to rebuild salmon and other species by removing barriers to migration, improving water management and quality, restoring core salmon strongholds, taking substantial steps to modernize older infrastructure for salmon-friendly results, and other actions.</p> <p>###</p> <p><strong>Background</strong><br /> This new funding for restoration and protection of critical habitat and watersheds statewide also supports key initiatives including conserving 30 percent of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030 under California’s 30x30 initiative, Nature-Based Solutions, and increasing the pace and scale of restoration through Cutting Green Tape.</p> <p>California must get more restoration done faster. To achieve that goal, CDFW has developed a single set of General Grant Program Guidelines with an overview of eligible project types, priorities, and information on the application process, available at <a href="http://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Watersheds/Restoration-Grants/Concept-Application">www.wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Watersheds/Restoration-Grants/Concept-Application</a>. Applications submitted under these new initiatives may also be considered for further evaluation under CDFW’s Proposition 1 and Proposition 68 Grant Programs, and a separate call for projects will also be released for these programs in early 2023.</p> <p>More information about these funding opportunities, including guidelines and how to apply, general information about CDFW’s grant programs, as well as a schedule for upcoming grant solicitations, once available, can be found at <a href="http://www.wildlife.ca.gov/grants">www.wildlife.ca.gov/grants</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><strong>Media contacts</strong>:<br /> <a href="mailto:Matt.Wells@wildlife.ca.gov">Matt Wells</a>, CDFW Watershed Restoration Grant Branch, (916) 216-7848<br /> <a href="mailto:Jordan.Traverso@wildlife.ca.gov">Jordan Traverso</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 212-7352</p> CDFW’s Cannabis Grant Program Announces Availability of Over $20 Million in Funding for Qualified Cultivator and Watershed Enhancement Projectshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/cdfws-cannabis-grant-program-announces-availability-of-over-20-million-in-funding-for-qualified-cultivator-and-watershed-enhancement-projectsGrantsFri, 24 Feb 2023 09:59:25 GMTCDFW's Cannabis Restoration Grant Program announces over $20 million in grant funding opportunities.<p>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), through its <a href="/Conservation/Watersheds/Cannabis-Restoration-Grant">Cannabis Restoration Grant Program (CRGP)</a>, is pleased to announce over $20 million is available in grant funding opportunities. CDFW has released two new solicitations to support a variety of remediation, habitat enhancement and conservation projects, and to assist small cannabis cultivators become fully licensed. Both solicitations are open, continuous and non-competitive.</p> <p>“We are excited about our new cannabis grant opportunities and look forward to funding a variety of projects that restore and protect California’s diverse natural resources,” said Amelia Wright, CDFW Cannabis Program Director. “These solicitations cover a wide range of activities including assisting cultivators with permitting, upgrading road crossings and culverts, cleanup and remediation of illegal grow sites and many other important projects that benefit the environment.”</p> <p>Applications can be submitted under the CRGP revised <a href="https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=207683&inline" target="_blank">Qualified Cultivator Funding Opportunity (PDF)</a> or the <a href="https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=209227&inline" target="_blank">Cleanup, Remediation and Watershed Enhancement Funding Opportunity (PDF)</a>. More information on the solicitations and pre-application forms can be found on the <a href="/Conservation/Watersheds/Cannabis-Restoration-Grant">CRGP website</a>.</p> <p>In 2022, the CRGP awarded nearly $5 million in grants and expects to quadruple awards this year.</p> <p>Grants through the CRGP are funded through California’s Environmental Restoration and Protection Account pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code section 34019(f)(2), and may be used to fund the cleanup, remediation, and restoration of environmental damage in watersheds affected by cannabis cultivation and related activities, and to support local partnerships for this purpose.</p> <p>For questions on CDFW’s CRGP, please email <a href="mailto:canngrantprogram@wildlife.ca.gov">canngrantprogram@wildlife.ca.gov</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contact:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:janice.mackey@wildlife.ca.gov">Janice Mackey</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 207-7891</em></p> Wildlife Conservation Board Funds Environmental Improvement and Acquisition Projectshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/wildlife-conservation-board-funds-environmental-improvement-and-acquisition-projects6WildlifeFri, 17 Feb 2023 17:32:46 GMTAt its February 16, 2023, quarterly meeting, the Wildlife Conservation Board approved approximately $51.83 million in grants to help restore and protect fish and wildlife habitat throughout California.<p><strong>Wild ducks fly over the Kramer Ranch, part of a conservation easement to protect migratory bird habitat, seasonal upland wetlands, rangelands, grasslands and habitat linkages in Lassen and Modoc counties. Photo © Josh Vest.</strong></p> <p>At its February 16, 2023, quarterly meeting, the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) approved approximately $51.83 million in grants to help restore and protect fish and wildlife habitat throughout California. Some of the 25 approved projects will benefit fish and wildlife -- including some endangered species -- while others will provide public access to important natural resources. Several projects will also demonstrate the importance of protecting working landscapes that integrate economic, social and environmental stewardship practices beneficial to the environment, landowners and the local community.</p> <p>Funding for these projects comes from a combination of sources including the state’s General Fund, Habitat Conservation Fund and bond measures approved by voters to help preserve and protect California’s natural resources.</p> <p>Some of the funded projects include:</p> <ul> <li>A $2.1 million grant to the Mid Klamath Watershed Council for a cooperative project with the State Coastal Conservancy, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to conduct prioritization, planning, design and permitting actions for 16 miles of high value waterways in the mid Klamath River basin where restoration activities following the removal of the Klamath Dam will benefit migratory salmonids and other aquatic species.</li> <li>A $1.27 million grant to the Montague Water Conservation District for a cooperative project with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to repair 1.19 miles of the Montague Water Conservation District’s Main Canal and to dedicate cold water annually for instream benefit to migratory salmonids and other aquatic species in the Shasta River in Siskiyou County.</li> <li>A $4.3 million grant augmentation to the Ventura County Watershed Protection District for a planning project that will complete final design plans for Matilija Dam removal and for three downstream levee construction and rehabilitation projects, which are essential components to support future restoration of the most productive and resilient spawning and rearing habitat for Southern California steelhead in support of the Matilija Dam Ecosystem Restoration Project located four miles northwest of the city of Ojai in Ventura County.</li> <li>A $4.9 million grant to the Resource Conservation District of the Santa Monica Mountains for a cooperative planning project with CDFW, State Coastal Conservancy, California Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks), and Caltrans to develop the technical studies, environmental review and outreach necessary to restore the Topanga Lagoon located within the third largest watershed that drains into the Santa Monica Bay and maintains a natural hydrologic regime that supports three native fish species and over 20 native amphibians, including a population of endangered tidewater goby and Southern California steelhead in Los Angeles County.</li> <li>A $1.35 million grant to California Rangeland Trust for a cooperative project with the Sierra Nevada Conservancy and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service to acquire a conservation easement over approximately 4,922 acres of land for the protection and preservation of stream flow, migratory bird habitat, seasonal upland wetlands, rangelands, grasslands and habitat linkages located near the community of Bieber in Lassen and Modoc counties.</li> <li>A $1.5 million grant to Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority to acquire approximately 88 acres of land for the protection of threatened and endangered habitat and to provide for future wildlife-oriented, public-use opportunities located near Malibu in Los Angeles County.</li> <li>A $1.97 million grant to the Friends of the Dunes for a cooperative project with the Tollowa Dunes Stewards, CDFW, State Parks, USFWS and the Tollowa Dee-ni’ Nation to remove non-native vegetation, restoring 17.8 acres of coastal dune, coastal prairie, open sandspit, estuarine and freshwater wetland habitat within the Lake Earl Wildlife Area in Del Norte County.</li> <li>An $11 million grant to Save the Redwoods League for a cooperative project with the National Park Service, State Parks and CAL FIRE to enhance forest health and reduce hazardous fuels through selective thinning on 1,000 acres of mixed conifer forest and four miles of road removal in Redwood National and State Parks in Humboldt and Del Norte counties.</li> <li>A $1.81 million grant to California Waterfowl Association for a cooperative project with CDFW to complete wetland, riparian and upland habitat enhancement at the Palo Verde Ecological Reserve located in the town of Blythe in Riverside County.</li> </ul> <p>For more information about the WCB please visit <a href="https://wcb.ca.gov/" target="_blank">wcb.ca.gov</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:John.Donnelly@wildlife.ca.gov">John Donnelly</a>, Wildlife Conservation Board, (916) 445-8448<br /> <a href="mailto:jordan.traverso@wildlife.ca.gov">Jordan Traverso</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 212-7352</em></p>