The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) designated over $20 million in grant funding opportunities to limit the number of unlicensed cannabis grows and help cultivators restore and conserve their properties.
The CDFW donated the money as part of its Cannabis Restoration Grant Program (CRGP). The organization announced the program in January, stating illicit cannabis grow practices, such as wildlife poaching, unlawful water diversions for irrigation, conversion of lands, banned pesticide use, and more, have negatively impacted California's environment and fish and wildlife.
"We are excited about our new cannabis grant opportunities and look forward to funding a variety of projects that restore and protect California's diverse natural resources," said Amelia Wright, CDFW Cannabis Program Director.
Wright told the Record Spotlight the CDFW wants to help limit the number of unlicensed grows because, in a regulated market, cultivators typically work with state regulators to minimize environmental impacts.
Wright said these grants could help limit cultivators' costs associated with things like permitting requirements, upgrading road crossings and culverts, and the cleaning and remediation of illicit grows.
However, the funding does not go to farmers. It's given to "nonprofits, tribes, government agencies and other organizations that manage environmental projects for landowners," the Record Spotlight reported.
According to the release, the CDFW also donated nearly $5 million in grants last year and anticipates it will quadruple awards this year as more cultivators learn about the program.
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