FY27 Forest Reserve RFR Grant

The FY27 Forest Reserve RFR Grant, solicitation number BD-27-1042-ENV-ENV01-134739, is a reimbursement grant program administered by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA). The program focuses on the permanent conservation of undeveloped land, prioritizing forests and existing ecological functions. All acquisitions must be permanently conserved via conservation restrictions in accordance with Sections 31-33 of Chapter 184 of the MA General Laws, specifically restricting the alteration of natural ecological regimes and timber harvesting. Funding is not available for the purchase of buildings. Applications must be submitted through the EEA Grant Management System by February 18, 2027. Projects are evaluated on a point system covering landscape considerations (26 points), ecological contributions and condition (22 points), public passive recreational access (18 points), project readiness and suitability (18 points), and property size (16 points). Awardees must execute their contracts within 90 days of the public announcement, and all approved project costs must be expended by June 30, 2028. Reimbursements are processed via electronic funds transfer following the submission of required documentation, including title certifications, recorded surveys, and appraisal reports that adhere to EEA specifications.