Starting December 2, conservationists and gardeners in Pierce County can apply for funding to help preserve important local open spaces. As Pierce County announces, applications for the 2025 Conservation Futures Grant open soon, with funding available for preserving local parks, habitats, and farmlands.
The Conservation Futures Program, supported by the Conservation Futures Tax Levy (CFT), helps protect and maintain green spaces in Pierce County. Grants are available every two years and encourage active stewardship of parks, habitats, and farmlands. Applicants must identify the conservation value of their project, contribute at least a 10% funding match, and provide a stewardship and public access plan. Priority is given to projects that serve the greater public good.
Since its inception in 1991, the Conservation Futures Program has helped preserve over 6,700 acres of land, protecting water quality, supporting local food sources, and maintaining recreational spaces. Notable successes include the expanded Swan Creek Park in Tacoma, a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife, and the Filucy Bay Preserve, which provides crucial habitat for salmon runs and other wildlife, according to Pierce County's official announcement.
New online resources, including video tutorials, are now available to help applicants submit strong proposals for the Conservation Futures Grant. These tools support local conservation projects like Little Eorthe Farm, which protects farmland, forests, and streams to benefit wildlife such as White River elk and local salmon.
