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Restoration Grant Opportunities – Accepting Concepts

CDFW is now accepting concept proposals on an ongoing basis for its Restoration Grant Programs, additional information can be found in the Call for Concepts (PDF)(opens in new tab). A single concept application may be submitted for consideration under each of the four funding sources as well as programs under Proposition 1 and 68.

CDFW Restoration Grant Opportunities five phase application flow chart. first phase - concept proposal, where applicant submits a concept proposal. Second phase - CDFW review and discussion, CDFW staff will consult with applicant if necessary. Third phase - Funding Decision, which includes executive review or selection panel review. Funding decisions are made in this stage. fourth phase - grant agreement, once approved CDFW will work with grantee to finalize a grant agreement. Fifth phase - project start, once agreement is executed

Starting in Fiscal Year 2022-23, CDFW will have over $200 million dedicated to restoration, including funding for grants under new initiatives under Nature Based Solutions, Drought and Climate resiliency.

Drought - Protecting Salmon - Funding for planning and implementation projects that enhance resiliency to drought and climate change through restoration, protection, or enhancement of riparian and aquatic habitat and river channels, reconnection of historical flood plains, or improvements to ecological functions.

Addressing Climate Impacts - Funding for projects addressing urgent degrading water and habitat conditions due to climate change impacts.

Wetlands and Mountain Meadows Restoration - Funding for Mountain Meadows and non-coastal Wetlands restoration consistent with the Natural and Working Lands Climate Smart Strategy(opens in new tab) and Pathways to 30x30(opens in new tab).

Up to $2 Million of the Wetlands and Mountain Meadows Restoration Funding will be available for non-lethal beaver damage management. More information can be found in the Beaver Conflict Resolution Grant Opportunities Call for Projects.

Wildlife Corridors - Funding to support connectivity projects that advance multi-benefit and nature-based solutions, consistent with the State Wildlife Action Plan, the California Wildlife Barriers Report, and the Fish Passage Annual Legislative Report.

Proposition 1 - Funding for projects that contribute to implementation of the State Wildlife Action Plan, the Sacramento Valley Salmon Resiliency Strategy, the Delta Plan, California EcoRestore, the Safeguarding California Plan, the California Biodiversity Initiative, and that fulfill CDFW’s Mission. Proposition 1 funds will be distributed through the Watershed Restoration Grant Program and the Delta Water Quality and Ecosystem Restoration Grant Program. More information can be found in the Proposition  1 Project Solicitation and Evaluation Guidelines. 

Proposition 68 – Funding for projects that address these priorities:

  • River and Stream Restoration - Restoration of rivers and streams for fisheries and wildlife
  • Southern Steelhead Habitat Restoration - Restoration of Southern California Steelhead habitat
  • Fish and Wildlife Habitat Restoration - Improvement of conditions for fish and wildlife in streams, rivers, wildlife refuges, wetland habitat areas, and estuaries

Additional information can be found in the Proposition 68 Project Solicitation and Evaluation Guidelines (PDF)(opens in new tab).

Application and Selection Process

Concept Proposal - CDFW is accepting proposal applications (continuous)

The application process begins with a concept proposal submitted through CDFW's WebGrants(opens in new tab) portal. CDFW will review concept proposals as received. Upon review, CDFW will contact applicants regarding next steps. Applicants awarded funding will work with CDFW to develop a grant agreement. If applicable, CDFW will contact applicants if proposals are deemed not sufficient and need additional information.

Consultations

Applicants may consult with CDFW staff at any time, including before submitting a concept proposal to discuss their projects. To request a consultation, fill out the Consultation Request Form.

Supplemental Applications

Eligible concept applicants may be invited to submit a supplemental application to some programs, such as Proposition 1 and Proposition 68 etc. The applicant will be required to provide additional project information to CDFW. CDFW will provide further instructions for the supplemental application to applicants on an invitation-only.

Award Schedule and Timelines

CDFW will review and award proposals on an ongoing basis, as often as monthly for Drought, Climate, and Nature Based Solutions eligible projects.

Eligibility Information

Unless otherwise limited by the funding sources or individual program guidelines, eligible applicants for funding include: Tribes, nonprofit organizations and public agencies.

Other entities that are not eligible to apply for funding to the programs may work as subcontractors for an eligible applicant.