Proposition 68 Fish and Wildlife Improvement Grant Opportunities – (Including Severely Disadvantaged Communities)

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is offering grant opportunities under the California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and Outdoor Access for All Act of 2018, known as Proposition 68. These competitive grants are designed to fund projects that enhance a community's ability to adapt to climate change, protect coastal and rural economies, ensure agricultural viability, and improve wildlife corridors and habitats. Key project priorities include the restoration of riparian and side-channel habitats, the reconnection of rivers with floodplains, and the protection of upper watershed forests and meadow systems essential for fish and wildlife resources. The program specifically emphasizes equity, requiring that at least 15 percent of available funds be allocated to projects serving severely disadvantaged communities, defined as those with a median household income less than 60 percent of the statewide average. The solicitation includes three specific grant opportunities: Rivers and Streams, Southern Steelhead, and Fish and Wildlife Improvement. Applicants must adhere to established administrative and technical review processes, budget requirements, and evaluation guidelines to qualify for funding aimed at increasing landscape resilience, drought tolerance, and water retention.