The FY25 Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Fuels Management and Community Fire Assistance Program for Oregon/Washington (ORWA) aims to reduce wildfire risks and support community resilience through a variety of initiatives. With a total funding pool of $8 million, the program anticipates issuing up to 10 awards ranging from $30,000 to $900,000. Applications are due by March 5, 2025, and successful projects may begin as early as July 1, 2025, with an expected completion date by September 30, 2030.

The program’s goals include conducting fuels management activities on federal and non-federal lands, developing fire education and training programs, supporting Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs), and enhancing local employment opportunities. Projects should align with BLM priorities such as creating fire-adapted communities, addressing the effects of climate change, and fostering conservation and restoration. Eligible activities encompass hazardous fuels reduction, community fire prevention outreach, and long-term monitoring and maintenance of fire prevention initiatives.

Eligible applicants include state, county, and local governments, special district governments, federally recognized Native American tribal governments, nonprofit organizations, and public and private institutions of higher education. For-profit organizations and individuals are ineligible. Collaborative applications are encouraged, especially those leveraging partnerships and additional resources.

Applications must be submitted via Grants.gov and include forms such as the SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance, project and budget narratives, and a Project Abstract Summary. Narratives should detail the statement of need, project objectives, proposed methods, anticipated outcomes, and alignment with program priorities. Proposals must also demonstrate compliance with environmental and regulatory standards, including NEPA requirements, where applicable.

Proposals will be evaluated based on criteria including technical approach, public benefit, applicant qualifications, and leveraging of resources. Strong applications will address BLM’s strategic goals and include clear milestones, a sound technical approach, and effective partnerships. The review process will also consider geographic and institutional diversity, project type, and applicant performance history.

The program supports federal goals outlined in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), with additional emphasis on advancing equity, climate resilience, and economic recovery. Post-award requirements include regular financial and program performance reporting, adherence to the Buy America provisions for infrastructure projects, and compliance with federal standards for geospatial data collection and management.

Applicants are encouraged to engage with BLM program leads prior to submission to ensure project alignment and eligibility.