Grant applications open to conserve forests

OLYMPIA – On Sept.1, eligible organizations may begin applying for state grants to conserve community forests.

The new state Community Forests Program will offer grants of up to $3 million. But organizations need to hurry. Applications are due Oct. 1.

The grants must be used to buy at least 5 acres of forestland and the land must be maintained as forestland forever. The land also must be actively managed to include timber harvest and other income-generating activities. Grants, when combined with land purchases, also may be used to restore the land or provide recreation opportunities, such as t...