Free Defensible Space Assistance
Low-income residents who are either 65+ or disabled are eligible for free defensible space clearing services within 100' of their homes. To apply, residents will be asked to supply proof of residency, medical disability, and income. Income qualifications are based on the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development /California Department of Housing & Community Development criteria. This program is funded and managed in cooperation with The County of Nevada, California Governor's Office of Emergency Services ( CalOES), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and The Fire Safe Council of Nevada County, with support from United Way of Nevada County.
California Forest Improvement Program
The purpose of the California Forest Improvement Program (CFIP) is to encourage private and public investment in, and improved management of, California forest lands and resources. This focus is to ensure adequate high quality timber supplies, related employment and other economic benefits, and the protection, maintenance, and enhancement of a productive and stable forest resource system for the benefit of present and future generations.
The program scope includes the improvement of all forest resources including fish and wildlife habitat, and soil and water quality. 90% cost-share assistance is provided to private and public ownerships containing 20 to 5,000 acres of forest land.
Environmental Quality Incentives Program
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service offers voluntary Farm Bill programs that benefit both agricultural producers and the environment.
The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides technical and financial assistance to producers to address natural resource concerns and deliver environmental benefits such as improved water and air quality, conserved ground and surface water, reduced soil erosion, and improved or created wildlife habitat. NRCS will help you develop a conservation plan that meets your goals and vision. This plan becomes your roadmap for selecting the right conservation practices for your land. NRCS offers about 200 unique practices designed for working farms, ranches, and forests. NRCS financial assistance can cover part of the costs of implementing conservation practices.
The Natural Resources Conservation Service works in partnership with the Nevada County Resource Conservation District and is located at 113 Presley Way, Suite 1 in Grass Valley. Office hours are 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- Valerie Bullard, District Conservationist (530) 798-5527
- Evan Smith, Forester (530) 798-5532
- Kristen Perano, Agricultural Engineer (530) 798-5526
- Diego Camacho Molina, Soil Conservationist (530) 798-5538
