The Western State Fire Managers (WSFM) Program is a funding opportunity aimed at mitigating the risk of wildland fires, particularly within the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) regions. The program focuses on supporting projects that address hazard fuel reduction in the WUI, as well as information and education, assessment and planning, and monitoring. It encourages community and landowner involvement in fire risk management. The funding is provided by the USDA Forest Service, State and Private Forestry branch, and is administered by the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL). The program’s goals are to reduce the risk of wildfires in high-risk areas, promote fire preparedness, and foster collaboration between various entities working to protect communities from wildfires.

In Idaho, the WSFM program's project proposals are required to align with the objectives of the Idaho Forest Action Plan. Projects must be located within designated Priority Landscape Areas (PLA) or Special Landscape Areas (SLA) according to the state’s risk mapping, or in areas identified as high risk for wildfire. Projects that fall outside of these areas must demonstrate they are located in high-risk zones as indicated in the Forest Action Plan’s wildfire risk map. Additionally, projects must be explicitly included in a County Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP), Hazard Mitigation Plan, or equivalent documents. Coordination with the relevant county entity responsible for the CWPP is required to ensure that projects meet eligibility criteria.

The WSFM program is available to a variety of entities. Eligible applicants include state, county, and local agencies, non-profit organizations (501c3), tribal entities, and educational institutions. Individual private landowners are not eligible to apply directly for funding. For successful participation, entities must ensure their projects are aligned with the program’s priorities, such as the reduction of fire hazards and the promotion of fire awareness and safety within at-risk communities.

The application process for this funding opportunity occurs annually, typically with requests for proposals announced during the Fall/Winter months. The deadline for submission typically falls in late Winter or early Spring. Interested applicants must submit their proposals directly to the Idaho Department of Lands via email. The proposal packet requires several documents including an acknowledgment form, budget development guidelines, the program’s criteria and instructions, and a project proposal form. Applicants are encouraged to subscribe to the Forestry Grant Program News to stay updated on the latest information regarding grant cycle openings and deadlines.

Applicants are encouraged to seek input and guidance during the project planning stage to ensure that their proposals meet the program’s standards. The Idaho Department of Lands provides assistance through its Grants Project Coordinator, Isabella Pritchard. She can be reached at the contact details provided for any clarification or advice on the application process.