CONTACT: CAL FIRE Duty PIO, (916) 651-3473, Calfire.dutypio@fire.ca.gov

RELEASE DATE: May 7, 2026

NEW FUNDING AVAILABLE TO HELP COMMUNITIES STRENGTHEN WILDFIRE RESILIENCE

Sacramento – As California recognizes Wildfire Preparedness Week and as announced by California Governor Gavin Newsom today, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is advancing the state’s ongoing Wildfire and Forest Resilience efforts by announcing the availability of up to $70 million in funding for community-focused Wildfire Prevention and Resilience projects. These grants support locally led efforts that reduce wildfire risk, strengthen preparedness, and help protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure.

Grant applications are now open. Completed applications must be submitted by 3:00 p.m. on July 8, 2026.

CAL FIRE's Wildfire Prevention Grants Program provides financial support for projects that reduce the potential for destructive wildfire in and around communities. Eligible activities include hazardous fuels reduction, wildfire prevention planning, and wildfire prevention education aimed at increasing readiness and reducing wildfire ignition potential. Projects that also deliver carbon‑reduction benefits will receive additional consideration.

“These grants empower communities to reduce hazardous fuels, strengthen evacuation readiness, and protect the places Californians live, work, and recreate,” said Frank Bigelow, Deputy Director of Community Wildfire Preparedness and Mitigation. "By investing in locally driven prevention projects, we are reducing risks today while building long term resilience for future generations.”

Last year, CAL FIRE’s 2025–26 Wildfire Prevention Grant awards funded high-impact resilience projects across California. In Siskiyou County, the Eastside Yreka Community Protection Project is reducing hazardous fuels across 410 acres near homes, evacuation routes, and critical infrastructure. In Alameda County, the Anthony Chabot Forest Fuels Enhancement Project is treating 556 acres near nearly 22,000 homes in a high-risk wildland-urban interface area. In San Bernardino County, roadside fuel reduction work across 282 acres is improving evacuation routes and help protect more than 37,000 structures.

These examples of effectiveness demonstrate how thoughtful planning and preventative work funded through CAL FIRE grants directly reduce wildfire risk, improve firefighter safety, and safeguard communities.

A virtual public workshop to explain the grant process and requirements will be held on May 13, 2026, from 10:00 a.m.to 11:00 a.m. The Wildfire Prevention Grants Program will also host a series of ‘office hours’ to assist with various steps in the Wildfire Prevention grants process, including answering questions. Please check the Wildfire Prevention Grants webpage for exact dates, times, and locations for each office hour event. A recording of each will also be made available on the Wildfire Prevention grants webpage. At least 40 percent of available grant funding will support projects that deliver direct and meaningful benefits to disadvantaged communities.

“California’s strength lies in the layers of resilience we build together. As we face a changing wildfire environment, the State remains steadfast in supporting communities with the resources and partnerships needed to safeguard our future,” said California State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant. “Our commitment is clear: we understand the challenge, and we are fully dedicated to creating a safer, more resilient California for generations to come.”

For more information about CAL FIRE’s Wildfire Prevention Grants, including previously awarded projects and application details, visit CAL FIRE Grants.



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