State launches new grant program to conserve forests

OLYMPIA – Communities wanting to conserve forestlands now have a state grant program to help, the Recreation and Conservation Office announced.

Beginning September 1, communities can apply for grants of up to $3 million in the newly created Community Forests Program.

The grants must be used to buy at least five acres of forestland and the land must be maintained as forestland forever. The land must be actively managed to include timber harvest and other income generating activities. Grants also may be used to restore the land or provide recreation opportunities, such as trails, when combined w...