Simpler Grants.gov #L26AS00064

BLM Youth Conservation Corps: Funding for Youth-Led Natural and Cultural Resource Projects

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), under the Department of the Interior, is seeking organizations to deliver youth conservation and restoration services across multiple states through the FY26 Youth Conservation Corps program. - Government Buyer: - Bureau of Land Management (BLM), including Coos Bay District (Oregon), Spokane District Office (Washington), Canyon Country District (Utah), Arcata Field Office (California), Rio Puerco Field Office (New Mexico), and BLM Headquarters - OEMs and Vendors: - BLM is the only OEM/vendor mentioned; no commercial product manufacturers are specified - Products/Services Requested: - All work is service-based, focusing on hands-on field projects for youth and veterans - Key services include: - Native plant revegetation, habitat and trail restoration, fencing and facility maintenance, invasive species management, wildfire risk reduction, and ecological landscaping - Heritage and paleontological internships, cultural resource management, and educational outreach - Recreation area improvements, signage installation, and public engagement - Training, mentoring, and professional development for youth (ages 16-30) and veterans (up to 35) - No specific products, part numbers, or commercial equipment are requested - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Applicants must provide a 25% cost share (matching funds) - Compliance with Buy America preferences for infrastructure-related work - Substantial BLM involvement in project oversight, training, and mentorship - Projects are designed to build workforce skills and environmental stewardship among youth and veterans, including tribal members - Stipends for youth crews and interns (e.g., $800/week) - Security background checks required for some positions - Funding and Awards: - Individual project funding ranges from $30,000 to $220,000, with a total program funding of $900,000 and approximately eight awards expected - Project periods vary by location, generally ranging from one to five years

Description

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is offering funding through the Youth Conservation Corps program to support natural and cultural resource-focused projects across public lands. The program engages youth aged 16-30 and veterans up to age 35, including tribal members, to gain work experience in public lands management and develop skills in resource stewardship. Projects include trail building and maintenance, habitat restoration, wildfire risk reduction, cultural resource preservation, and educational material production. The program emphasizes hands-on engagement, skill development, and mentorship, with BLM providing substantial involvement and oversight.

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