The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has recently announced the availability of more than $20 million in grant funding through its Cannabis Restoration Grant Program (CRGP). These grants are designed to support a variety of projects related to environmental restoration and conservation, with a particular focus on the remediation of watersheds affected by cannabis cultivation and related activities.
The CRGP Grant Opportunities
The CRGP is offering two new solicitations for grant funding opportunities. The first is the Qualified Cultivator Funding Opportunity, which is designed to assist small cannabis cultivators in becoming fully licensed. The second is the Cleanup, Remediation and Watershed Enhancement Funding Opportunity, which covers a wide range of activities, including cleanup and remediation of illegal grow sites, upgrading road crossings and culverts, and other projects that benefit the environment.
How to Apply
Both solicitations are open, continuous and non-competitive, meaning that applications can be submitted at any time. More information on the solicitations and pre-application forms can be found on the CRGP website. If you have any questions about the application process or the grant opportunities, you can email canngrantprogram@wildlife.ca.gov.
The Benefits of the CRGP Grant Program
The CRGP grant program is an excellent opportunity for cannabis cultivators and environmental organizations to receive funding for important projects that help to protect and restore California’s natural resources. In 2022, the program awarded nearly $5 million in grants, and it expects to quadruple awards this year. By providing funding for projects related to environmental restoration and conservation, the CRGP is helping to create a more sustainable future for California and its residents.
