by Eight initiatives have received $5 million in grant funding from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. These programs will help small companies increase their involvement in preventing wildfires in communities and forests, train future forestry workers, and create jobs.
The funds are provided by CAL FIRE’s Business and Workforce Development Grant program, which encourages creative strategies for lowering the risk of wildfires and fostering rural economic development. The program has given more than $100 million to more than 100 projects throughout the state since it began in 2022.
According to Assistant Chief John McCarthy of CAL FIRE’s Wood Products & Bioenergy Team, these initiatives—which range from new mass timber production right here in California to practical training for young adults—are contributing to the development of a more resilient future for our forests and communities. By putting woody debris to good use, we are pleased to support initiatives that expand our workforce, improve forest health, and lessen pile burning.
The following initiatives will be supported by this most recent round of grants:
-
Job training programs
for youth and entry-level forestry workers, such as the F.I.R.E. Bootcamp from Conservation Corps North Bay and Fire Forward s workforce initiative by Audubon Canyon Ranch. -
A statewide mentorship program
connecting college forestry students with experienced professionals, led by the Placer Resource Conservation District. -
A web-based course
from the California Licensed Foresters Association to help more people prepare for the state s Registered Professional Forester exam. -
The Forestry Challenge
, a long-running program giving high school students hands-on experience in forest science and management. -
Business expansion grants
for Diversified Resources, Inc. and Thompson Land Management to purchase equipment that will allow them to treat more acres for wildfire risk reduction and forest restoration. -
Mass timber production investment
at Mad River Mass Timber in Humboldt County, supporting new jobs and local use of sustainably harvested wood in construction.
When combined, the initiatives will increase the ability to treat thousands of acres a year, train over 300 people, and create or retain dozens of employment.
These expenditures are in keeping with California’s Wildfire and Forest Resilience Action Plan, which describes methods for enhancing forest health, protecting communities, and using sustainable forestry to mitigate climate change. According to a news release, the funding comes from California Climate Investments and General Funds, which support the forest sector and assist lower greenhouse gas emissions.
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