Commissioner Wilton Simpson announces six point three million dollars in grants to help Florida landowners improve and protect the state’s forests

Tallahassee, Florida – Florida landowners have a new opportunity to invest in the state’s forests, with $6.3 million in grants now available through two cost-share programs administered by the Florida Forest Service. Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced the funding today, highlighting the importance of healthy forests for Florida’s environment, economy, and communities. The programs—Florida’s Future Forests Program and the Enhancing Gulf Waters Through Forested Waters Restoration (RESTORE) Program—aim to support tree planting, timber stand improvement, and other forest management practices that help maintain water quality, enhance wildlife habitat, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the state’s forestlands. Applications for both programs will be accepted until March 27, 2026, at 3 p.m. EST.

“Florida’s forests are some of our most valuable natural assets – protecting water quality, supporting wildlife, and fueling an industry that supports thousands of jobs,” Commissioner Wilton Simpson said. “These programs are a significant long-term investment for the state and will help maintain and preserve Florida’s forests and natural resources for future generations.”

The Florida’s Future Forests Program targets non-industrial private landowners, local governments, and registered nonprofit organizations. Landowners seeking funding can request assistance for tree establishment on tracts ranging from 10 to 250 acres. Interested applicants are encouraged to reach out to their Florida Forest Service County Forester to begin the application process. More information is available online at FDACS.gov/FutureForests.

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“Private lands make up the majority of Florida’s forestlands, and these funds will help landowners reestablish forests, improving water quality and enhancing overall forest health,” said Florida Forest Service Director Rick Dolan. Since 2021, the Florida Legislature has allocated approximately $18 million for the Future Forests Program, which has already supported the creation of more than 50,000 acres of healthy forest throughout the state.

In addition to the Future Forests Program, $2.3 million is available through the RESTORE Landowner Incentive Program, which focuses on priority watersheds along the Gulf of Mexico. Eligible applicants include non-industrial private landowners, local governments, and registered nonprofit organizations within these designated areas. The program covers a variety of forest management practices, including reforestation, prescribed burning, first pulpwood thinning, and both mechanical and chemical underbrush treatments. Funding is available for projects ranging from 10 to 250 acres. Applications and program details are available at FDACS.gov/Restore.

Together, these programs provide tools for landowners to maintain and improve forest health, while also protecting vital water resources and contributing to wildlife habitat. The Florida Forest Service manages over 1.2 million acres of state forests and provides technical guidance to more than 17 million acres of private and community forests statewide. The agency also plays a key role in wildfire prevention and suppression, protecting homes, forestland, and natural resources across more than 26 million acres of Florida’s landscape.

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Commissioner Simpson and Florida Forest Service officials emphasized that the new funding is part of a broader effort to ensure that forests remain a cornerstone of Florida’s environmental and economic future. By investing in sustainable forestry practices, the state hopes to safeguard natural resources, support local communities, and promote responsible stewardship of private and public lands.
Applications for both programs must be submitted by 3 p.m. EST on March 27, 2026, and interested landowners are encouraged to apply early to take full advantage of the available funding. For more information about the programs, application procedures, and additional resources, landowners can visit FDACS.gov or contact their local Florida Forest Service office.
With these grants, Florida continues to demonstrate its commitment to preserving its forestlands for future generations, ensuring that the state’s natural beauty, wildlife, and industries dependent on healthy forests remain vibrant and sustainable.