The North Bay Forest Improvement Program (NBFIP) offers two types of cost-share funding opportunities:

Project Types

Forest Management Plans (FMPs) and Implementation Projects.

Together, they help landowners plan, prepare, and carry out forest improvement work that reduces wildfire risk and builds resilience

A Forest Management Plan (FMP) provides the foundation.

An Implementation Project puts that plan into action.

Landowners may start with an FMP or apply for Implementation funding if a qualifying plan is already in place.

Forest Management Plans (FMPs)

Goal: Assess your forest and create a roadmap for long-term health.

FMPs are detailed documents prepared by a Registered Professional Forester (RPF).

They evaluate your property’s current forest conditions and outline recommended management actions for fire risk reduction, restoration, and habitat improvement.

Funding: NBFIP offers cost-share support for developing your FMP.

What’s Included:
• Property evaluation & mapping
• Inventory of vegetation and fuels
• Management goals and recommended practices
• Long-term maintenance plan

Applications: Accepted year-round (rolling basis).

Implementation
Project

Goal: Turn your plan into action.

Implementation Projects provide cost-share funding to carry out forest improvement work identified in your plan.

Projects can include:
• Fuels reduction & thinning
• Pruning or reforestation
• Shaded fuel breaks
• Removal of dead or diseased trees
• Erosion control and habitat restoration

Applications: Accepted during open funding windows (typically 2–3 per year).

Note: You must have an approved Forest Management Plan or equivalent document to apply for Implementation funding.

Compare Project Types

Understand the difference between a Forest Management Plan (FMP) and an Implementation Project—and which one is right for your property.

	🌲 Forest Management Plan (FMP)	🪵 Implementation Project
Purpose	Creates a professional plan to guide forest health and fire resilience work.	Carries out approved forest improvement work from a plan.
Who Prepares It	Registered Professional Forester (RPF)	Landowner and contractors, guided by your local RCD.
Funding Type	Cost-share assistance for plan creation.	Cost-share assistance for on-the-ground project work.
Application Timing	Open year-round (rolling).	Accepted during scheduled funding windows.
Requires a Plan?	No — this is the plan.	Yes — requires an approved FMP or equivalent.

Ready To Get Started?

Whether you’re planning your first project or ready to apply for funding, our team is here to help.

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