Texas A&M Forest Service awards $457,000 in wildfire risk reduction grants
69 projects funded to protect homes, infrastructure, natural resources and people
Texas communities will receive $457,413 from the Texas A&M Forest Service Community Wildfire Risk Reduction Grant Program to help them become more resilient against wildfires.
The funding, provided to landowners, will support 69 wildfire mitigation projects that will treat 9,610 acres, helping protect homes, infrastructure, natural resources and the people who live in at-risk areas.
As wildfire risk continues to affect many areas of Texas, mitigation projects like mechanical fuel reduction and prescribed fire fill a vital role in protecting lives and property while supporting long-term community safety.
Tackling vegetation buildup on the community level
By reducing hazardous fuels, communities can lower the intensity and spread of future wildfires and improve overall preparedness.
“These grants help landowners take proactive steps to lessen wildfire risk while supporting healthy, resilient landscapes across Texas,” said Karen Stafford, Texas A&M Forest Service community resilience program coordinator. “By investing in mitigation today, we can better safeguard communities and improve their ability to withstand future wildfire events.”
The projects will strengthen community resilience by reducing the buildup of vegetation that can contribute to dangerous wildfires and creating safer conditions around homes and other assets. Through mechanical fuel reduction and prescribed fire activities, landowners and local partners will take proactive steps to reduce wildfire risk before fires occur.
“Reducing hazardous fuels before a wildfire occurs is one of the most effective ways to protect people, homes and natural resources,” said Stafford.
Effective planning to reduce wildfire risk
The Community Wildfire Risk Reduction Grant Program is part of Texas A&M Forest Service’s ongoing commitment to helping Texans prepare for and reduce wildfire risk through education, planning and implementation of proven mitigation practices.
Funding for the program is provided by the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.
Applications are accepted annually from June 1 through July 14. Landowners, communities and partners interested in future funding opportunities can learn more by exploring Texas A&M Forest Service’s online Funding Connector.
For more information about grants and assistance, visit tfsweb.tamu.edu/grants-financial-assistance/.
