The Landscape Scale Restoration (LSR) Grant is a competitive funding opportunity supported by the USDA Forest Service, State and Private Forestry branch, aimed at promoting the restoration of priority forest landscapes in Idaho. This program supports science-based, collaborative restoration efforts that align with the priorities identified in State Forest Action Plans. The purpose of the LSR program is to foster improvements in forest ecosystems, reduce wildfire risks, enhance wildlife habitats (including for threatened and endangered species), and improve water quality and watershed functions. Projects funded under this program are expected to mitigate the effects of invasive species, insect infestations, and diseases, while enhancing air and soil quality.

The program specifically funds restoration efforts in priority landscapes, as identified in the Idaho Forest Action Plan or its equivalent. These projects should aim for cross-boundary approaches, meaning that they may integrate different programs and span multiple ownerships or management areas. However, the funds cannot be used on any federal land. The focus of the projects must be on rural areas, particularly nonindustrial private lands or state-owned lands. For the purposes of the program, rural is defined as any area outside of urbanized zones with populations greater than 50,000.

Eligible applicants for the LSR Grant include state, county, and local governments, tribal entities, non-profit organizations (501(c)(3)), and educational institutions. Notably, individual private landowners cannot apply directly for this funding, although projects affecting their land may be eligible if submitted through an eligible organization. Projects related to fire mitigation must also be included in local County Wide Protection Plans (CWPP) or similar documents to qualify. Proposals are evaluated based on how they address the goals outlined in Idaho’s Forest Action Plan and whether they focus on identified Priority Landscape Areas (PLAs) or Special Landscape Areas (SLAs) in the state.

The funding amounts for individual projects range from $0 to $240,000, depending on the scope and impact of the proposed project. The program accepts proposals annually, with deadlines typically set for late winter or early spring. Interested parties are encouraged to subscribe to the Forestry Grant Program News to stay updated on grant cycle openings and submission deadlines. A completed proposal must be submitted via email to the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) with the appropriate forms and documentation.

The grant review process is competitive, and successful projects, such as the Blackfoot River Restoration Project, serve as examples of highly-rated applications. This project included restoration efforts within a Wildlife Management Area, contributing to improved water quality and fish habitat through the planting of cottonwood and willow trees to stabilize river banks.