SNOHOMISH COUNTY, Wash., April 24, 2023 — Snohomish County is accepting applications for the 2023 Snohomish County Conservation Futures Program (SCCFP) Grants until 5 p.m. on August 18, 2023. Up to $10 million is available for distribution in 2023 for the preservation of open space, agricultural land, and timberland.
“Snohomish County is defined by our beautiful and abundant natural resources – protecting them is central to our way of life. We must make decisions every day of the year to protect our natural resources. We are already seeing the impacts of climate change, and Snohomish County will continue to lead regional efforts to invest in sustainable solutions. The health of our economy and community depends on us never becoming complacent,” said Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers.
“The Conservation Futures Program is an important tool to help protect our farms, forests, parks, and natural areas,” said Sharon Swan, Director of Snohomish County Parks & Recreation. “With a growing population, equity gaps and environmental concerns, it is critical we permanently protect these finite resources and access to nature and open space in Snohomish County now and in the future.”
Eligible applicants include cities, towns, county agencies, and conservation organizations. Requirements, guidelines, policies, instructions and the application can be found on the Conservation Futures Program webpage. Applications are scheduled to be reviewed at the August 2023 Conservation Futures Program Advisory Board (CFPAB) meeting and recommended to the Executive and Snohomish County Council in September 2023.
The Snohomish County Conservation Futures Program was started in 1988 as a mechanism for distributing Conservation Futures property tax funds for the preservation of open space land, farm and agricultural land, and timberland. The purpose of this program is to protect land for preservation, habitat, passive recreation and other uses that enhance our local environment and promote livable communities. Examples of land preserved through the Snohomish County Conservation Futures Program include Japanese Gulch Park, Paradise Valley Conservation Area, Bailey Farm and Bob Heirman Wildlife Park at Thomas’ Eddy.
About Snohomish County Conservation and Natural Resources
The Snohomish County Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) includes the Division of Surface Water Management; the Division of Parks and Recreation; the Office of Energy and Sustainability and the Office of Agriculture. DCNR works in support of thriving communities; a clean and healthy environment to foster environmental stewardship; ensuring food security; supporting a green economy and strengthening communities by providing regional parks and infrastructure; protecting the region’s water, air, land and natural habitats; enhancing agriculture and recreation; and reducing flooding. https://snohomishcountywa.gov/5758.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
