The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has announced funding under the FY25 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to support Oregon/Washington Rangeland Resource Management projects. This initiative focuses on conserving and restoring rangelands to combat climate change, improve land health, and enhance resilience against environmental challenges. The program includes activities such as vegetation restoration, invasive species management, grazing management, and ecological site descriptions. Priority will be given to projects that offer public benefits, align with Department of Interior and BLM priorities, and provide national or regional impact by crossing state boundaries.

A total of $500,000 in funding is available, with awards ranging from $30,000 to $500,000. Up to three projects will be funded under this program. The funding opportunity emphasizes collaboration between BLM and recipients, with substantial federal involvement expected in project management, evaluation, and implementation. Eligible applicants include state, local, and tribal governments; public and private higher education institutions; nonprofit organizations; and certain tribal organizations. For-profit entities and individuals are ineligible. No cost-sharing is required for this program.

Applicants must register in SAM.gov and Grants.gov before applying, which can take several weeks. Proposals must include detailed project narratives, a budget narrative, and a summary of the project’s objectives, activities, deliverables, and public benefits. Compliance with federal regulations, including environmental and conflict-of-interest disclosures, is required. Applications are due by February 18, 2025, and the anticipated project start date is June 2, 2025, with a maximum duration through September 30, 2030.

Applications will be evaluated on their alignment with program goals, technical approach, public benefit, qualifications, and past performance. Proposals must demonstrate clear objectives, technical feasibility, and measurable outcomes. BLM will assess the proposed budget for reasonableness and compliance with federal standards. Priority will be given to proposals that demonstrate effective partnerships and resource leveraging.

Award recipients must comply with reporting requirements, including financial and performance reports, and adhere to federal standards for geospatial data collection and use. Notices of Federal Award will be sent electronically, detailing the terms and conditions. Any pre-award costs incurred are at the applicant's own risk. Successful applicants must fulfill all post-award administrative and reporting obligations, ensuring the alignment of project activities with federal guidelines and priorities.

This funding opportunity underscores the BLM’s commitment to addressing climate resilience, promoting environmental justice, and investing in sustainable land management practices. It provides an avenue for eligible entities to engage in meaningful conservation efforts with the potential to yield long-term ecological and community benefits.