Middle Fork Project now accepting grant applications - aims to reduce fire risk to forested watershed

Published on January 04, 2017

Grant funding is now available to help protect the Middle Fork American River from fire risk thanks to an annual funding agreement between Placer County and Placer County Water Agency.

Grant applications are now being accepted from organizations that perform fuel management activities to reduce fire risk in the forested watershed in the Middle Fork Project area.

The Middle Fork Project is a multi-purpose water supply and hydro-generation project designed to conserve and control waters of the Middle Fork American River, the Rubicon River and several associated tributary streams. The project stores water from rain and snow during the fall and winter months and releases water all year to meet consumptive (municipal, industrial and agricultural) demands within western Placer County, provides recreational experiences, contributes to the natural resource preservation and enhancement of the river and generates power for the California electrical grid. The Middle Fork Project is located in the Middle Fork American River watershed between the areas of Auburn and Foresthill.

Through the duration of the federal license for the Middle Fork Project, an annual amount of funds will be made available to organizations that propose projects or have programs that have a direct connection to the project area and show the potential to reduce fire danger through fuels management projects.

Interested organizations must meet application and matching fund requirements, and there are specific agreements and documentation of results requirements to become eligible to receive an award.

The first grant period for the 2017 Fuel Reduction Management Program grant process is now open with a second grant period to follow in June.

Grant funding applications may be addressed to Placer County, Community Development Resource Agency, Attention: Brett Storey, 3091 County Center Drive, Auburn, CA 95603; or by email. Applications for January’s funding cycle must be received no later than 5 p.m. on January 31.

For more information regarding grant funding or application preparation guidance, please contact the program manager, Brett Storey, at 530-745-3011 or email.