Deschutes County offering grants to reduce wildfire risk

Deschutes County has earmarked $125,000 for fuel reduction grants aimed at helping local communities reduce wildfire risk. Residents can apply for grant funds beginning Sept. 1.

Since 2022, the County has allocated $425,000 in support of the Fall Fuel Reduction Grant program, which has funded 68 communities.

Grants are intended to help communities with specific, short-term projects that reduce fuels and improve defensible space. Typical grant awards range between $100 and $5,000.

Eligible projects include, but are not limited to:

• Equipment rental
• Supplies for community work parties
• Contracting fees for roadside chipping, fuel reduction or defensible space creation
• Debris disposal fees

Note: The County discourages grant requests for regular, annual maintenance projects, such as pine needle raking and removal.

Online applications will be accepted starting Monday, Sept. 1 through Tuesday, Sept. 30. Preference will be given to communities or neighborhoods that are working toward, or have achieved, recognition as a Firewise USA™ site and are proposing projects consistent with their Firewise action plan and community assessment.

For more information about the County’s Fuel Reduction Grant Program and to fill out an online application, visit: www.deschutes.org/forester. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 30.