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Community Forests & Open Space
What is the Community Forests & Open Space Program?
This is a competitive grant program where the Forest Service publishes a request for proposals annually in the federal register. Eligible applicants include qualified nonprofit and local government entities who have submitted their application to the State Forester with jurisdiction over the project location and Federally recognized tribes. Lands acquired through the program require public access and are actively managed in accordance with a community forest plan to provide community benefits.
Our Work
The Community Forest and Open Space Program was established to award grants for acquiring private forest land threatened by conversion to non-forest uses in order to provide communities with:
- Economic benefits
- Environmental benefits
- Educational benefits
- Forest Management Demonstration benefits
- Recreational benefits
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Applying for the Community Forests and Open Space Program
Fiscal Year 2025 Community Forest Program Request for Applications (RFA) is now available. Please contact your regional program manager in advance if you are planning to submit an application or have questions about the program.
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2024 Funded Projects
In fiscal year 2024, the Forest Service is awarding $5.5 million to create or add to 13 community forests.
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Community Forest Program Accomplishment Map
Community forests have been established across the United States with multiple partners.
Partners
The Forest Service partners with the State Forester, tribal governments, and non-profit organizations to successfully implement this program.
Resources
To keep you in the know, here are some resources about:
For more information about grant proposals and grant management, please visit our Funding page.
- National Community Forests and Open Space Website
- For complete information on the program and application process, see the Final Rule and the Community Forest Road Map.
- Assistance for Native American proposals from First Nations Development Institute
Contact Us
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Katie Friday, Program Manager Hawaiʻi and Pacific IslandsVoice: 808-785-5197Email: kathleen.friday@usda.gov