Grant Opportunities
Wildfire Resiliency Mini-Grant
(Application period closed)
Communities in Inyo and Mono counties have a wide array of needs to reduce the risk of damage and losses caused by wildfire and habitat degradation. Because of this need Whitebark Institute, through funding from Edison International, is opening a small grant program to aid fire prevention programs and critical fire-response projects which protect or restore the environment as a means of supporting community-driven stewardship and wildfire resilience.
Programs and projects will be considered in the areas of wildfire prevention, protection, mitigation, response and recovery in high-fire risk areas in Edison’s service area. Because of the particular requirements of the funding source, programs and projects must be for the purpose of protecting or restoring the environment or an ecosystem, improving forests, or providing a habitat for fish, wildlife or plants. For example, fuel-reduction activities at the community or neighborhood scale decrease the risk of severe wildfire and thereby reduce the threat of habitat loss.
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This initial opportunity will get a few small projects underway in hopes of expanding the grant program and partnering with an array of local agencies and organizations.
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Please see below for more information and requirements.
Application requirements
Available Project Funding
Project funding is limited to $5,000 per award and community. Requests greater than $5,000 will not be considered. This funding is intended for specific projects rather than ongoing operations.
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Application Period and Timelines
Application Opens: May 22, 2024
Application Closes: June 20, 2024 (noon)
Award Notifications: July 20, 2024
Project Implementation: Completed by November 15, 2024
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Eligible Applicants
Applications are encouraged from Tribes, Fire Safe Councils, FireWise Communities, Fire Protection Districts and Fire Departments, Community Service Districts, Homeowner Associations, and non-profits. Projects must be located within Inyo and Mono counties and Southern California Edison (SCE) service area. Individuals and for-profit businesses are not eligible to apply for this current opportunity.
Fiscal Agents and Responsibilities
If the applicant does not have legal status (such as a 501(c)3 organization) to receive and disburse funds, the applicant must find a partner that can serve as a fiscal agent.
Examples of Projects Eligible for Funding
Basically, anything that has potential to make a tangible improvement in community wildfire safety is fair game. Be creative! A few examples:
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Rentals of roll-off dumpsters for green-waste generated by creation of defensible space.
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Purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g, gloves, helmets, dust masks, etc.)
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Enhancement of water sources and availability for fire-fighting.
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Restoration and rehabilitation of dispersed camping sites (with agreement of landowner).
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High-visibility residential address signs and community education signage.
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Contracts with landscaping professionals for difficult defensible space projects.
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Contracts with prescribed-grazing (e.g., goats) professionals.
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Purchase of home-hardening materials (e.g., metal screen, caulk, vent covers, etc.) that can be equitably distributed.
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Produce educational materials for thorough distribution within your community.
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Purchase mundane, but critical, equipment for fire departments.
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Upgrade emergency communication and notification equipment.
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Review process
Applications will be reviewed by a panel comprised of qualified individuals with relevant experience in Eastern Sierra communities and landscapes. Awards will be granted to projects that, in the panel’s judgment, will best enhance community wildfire safety and demonstrate clear benefits to ecosystem restoration and protection.