MILWAUKEE — The USDA Forest Service Eastern Region has opened applications for the 2025 Cohesive Fire Strategy grant program. These competitive grants support local wildfire management initiatives on non-federal land in the 20 Northeast and Midwest states and the District of Columbia. Over the past five years, the region has distributed nearly $21 million through this grant program and anticipates awarding approximately $2.8 million in 2025. 

Cohesive Fire Strategy grants support projects that reduce wildfire risk to communities and resources by restoring and maintaining resilient landscapes and creating fire-adapted communities.  

Eligible applicants vary by grant but include sovereign Tribal nations, states and local governments, nonprofit organizations, forest fire compacts, and academic institutions. The maximum funding that an organization can request per project is $25,000 - $300,000 for Wildfire Risk Reduction grants. 

“Through the Cohesive Fire Strategy competitive grant program, we are supporting our partners and their work of protecting lives, homes, and property, developing resilient, fire-adapted landscapes, and improving wildfire preparedness benefiting local communities and forests,” said Steve Goldman, Forest Service Eastern Region Fire and Aviation Management deputy director. “These efforts show that the commitment to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires doesn't end at jurisdictional or property boundaries.” 

For more information on the Eastern Region Cohesive Fire Strategy grant program including information on how to apply visit the Cohesive Fire Strategy page. The final submission deadline is January 15, 2025.