Project Types
The North Bay Forest Improvement Program (NBFIP) offers cost-share funding opportunities for two types of projects:
Together, these projects help landowners plan, prepare, and carry out forest improvement work that reduces wildfire risk and builds resilience.
Forest Management Plan (FMP)
Provides a strategic, long-term foundation for forest health and wildfire resilience. FMPs are optional for implementation funding, but they strengthen implementation applications and many landowners may already have one.
Implementation Project
Funds on-the-ground forest improvement work. Projects may be based on an existing FMP, NTMP, or mini-plan—or your RCD/CLERC partner can help develop a treatment plan if you don’t have one.
Together or independently, these tools help landowners restore forests, reduce fuel loads, and improve wildfire resilience across the North Bay.
Goal
Assess your forested land and create a practical plan for long-term health, wildfire risk
reduction, and habitat improvement.
FMPs evaluate your property’s current forest conditions and outline recommended management actions so you can prioritize work over time.
Funding
NBFIP offers
cost-share support which reimburses a
percentage of the cost of developing your FMP
with an RPF.
What’s Included
- Property evaluation and mapping
- Inventory of vegetation and fuels
- Management goals and recommended practices
- Long-term maintenance and treatment schedule
Applications
Applications are accepted year-round on a
rolling basis.
Landowners may start with an FMP or apply for Implementation funding if a qualifying plan is already in place.
Implementation Project
Implementation Projects provide cost-share funding for on-the-ground forest improvement work that reduces wildfire risk and supports long-term forest health.
Implementation Projects provide cost-share funding for eligible forest-health treatments. Projects may be based on an existing Forest Management Plan, NTMP, or mini-plan, but a plan is not required. If a landowner is awarded funding without an existing plan, RCD or CLERC partner staff will develop a treatment plan specific to the project.
- Fuels reduction & thinning
- Pruning and tree care
- Shaded fuel breaks
- Removal of dead or diseased trees
- Reforestation and planting
Landowners may apply for Implementation funding with or without a Forest Management Plan. To qualify, projects must meet basic program requirements, including:
- Eligible land size (typically 5–5000 acres)
- Eligible ownership type (private, non-industrial landowners)
- Property location within a participating North Bay county
- Ability to cover full project cost upfront until reimbursement is issued
- Environmental and project-type requirements outlined by the program
Application Windows: Implementation applications are accepted during open funding periods (typically 2–3 per year).
Next application window:
January 16 - February 13, 2026
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. |
Ready To Get Started?
Whether you’re planning your first project or ready to apply for funding, our team is here to help.