Cost-share opportunities

Cost Share Directory
The 2000-01 Cost Share and Assistance Programs for Individual California Landowners and Indian Tribes Directory is now available online at http://ceres.ca.gov/foreststeward/financial.html or as a hard copy booklet from the California Forest Stewardship Helpline at 1-800-738-TREE.

This valuable directory is updated annually by UC Cooperative Extension Forestry and can provide forestland owners with the latest information on funding sources and contacts.

This year's Directory includes funding sources from state, federal, and private/nonprofit entities. The summary of each program includes its goals, types of projects supported, eligibility, limitations, and contact person. There are tips on how to submit a successful project and lists of technical assistance resources.

CFIP
The goal of the California Forest Improvement Program (CFIP) is to "improve the timber productivity of non-industrial private forest lands while also improving other forest resources, such as fish and wildlife habitat and soil resources so that the overall effect is to improve the total forest resource system."

CFIP funds forestry practices including management planning, reforestation, site preparation, pre-commercial thinning, land conservation (erosion control, forest road rehabilitation, revegetation), and fish and wildlife habitat improvement. The cost-share rate is generally 75% up to $50,000 per contract but can be higher in emergency situations such as fire or other natural disaster.

CFIP is administered by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF). Applications for CFIP funds are accepted continually. For information on the availability of funds and to contact the CDF Forestry Assistance Specialist nearest you, call the California Forest Stewardship Helpline (1-800-PET-TREE).

EQIP
EQIP, the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, provides technical, financial and educational assistance targeting natural resource problems. Over $350,000 will be allocated for forestry and range programs and there are opportunities for forestland owners to participate in this program. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis. EQIP is administered by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). For more information, contact your local NRCS office or go to the website at http:// www.ca.nrcs.usda.gov/rts/eqip1.html.

California Forest Stewardship Helpline
The Stewardship Helpline is a great starting point for any questions on project funding. A Registered Professional Forester staffs the Helpline, and is knowledgeable in all aspects of forestry assistance. Call 1-800-738-TREE.