DNR and State Cost-Share Programs Across the Pacific Northwest

Helping Private Landowners Reduce Wildfire Risk

Cost-share programs offered through state forestry agencies help private landowners reduce wildfire hazards and improve long-term forest health. These programs reimburse a portion of approved project costs, making proactive fuel reduction and forest management more affordable.

Across Washington, Idaho, Montana and Oregon, cost-share funding supports treatments that improve defensible space, reduce hazardous fuels and strengthen overall forest resilience.

Funding availability, eligibility requirements and reimbursement percentages vary by state and by program year.

Mixed pine and fir forest managed for wildfire risk reduction and forest health

What Types of Projects May Qualify?

Eligible treatments commonly include:

  • Non-commercial thinning
  • Forestry mulching and brush reduction
  • Pruning lower tree branches
  • Slash disposal
  • Defensible space creation around homes and structures
  • Fuel break installation in high-risk areas
  • Forest Stewardship Plan development

Projects must typically be reviewed and approved by a state forester before work begins in order to qualify for reimbursement.

How the Cost-Share Process Works

While each state administers its own program, the general process includes:

  1. Contacting a local service or stewardship forester
  2. On-site evaluation and treatment recommendations
  3. Submitting a cost-share application
  4. Receiving approval before starting work
  5. Completing approved treatments
  6. Final inspection and reimbursement

Funding is competitive and dependent on available budgets.

Cost-Share Programs by State

We assist landowners in navigating cost-share opportunities throughout the Pacific Northwest, including:

  • Washington DNR Cost-Share Program
  • Idaho Department of Lands Cost Share
  • Montana DNRC Cost-Share Program
  • Oregon Department of Forestry Cost Share
  • National Forest Cost-Share Opportunities

Each state program has specific guidelines, eligibility standards and approved treatment types.

Working With Axsus Land Management

Axsus Land Management partners with landowners to implement approved treatments such as forestry mulching, thinning, brush clearing and defensible space creation.

We coordinate with foresters, follow program specifications and complete projects in alignment with state requirements.

If you are exploring cost-share funding for wildfire mitigation or forest health improvements, contact Axsus Land Management to discuss your property and determine whether your project may align with available programs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cost-Share Programs

What is a cost-share program?

A cost-share program reimburses a portion of approved forest health or wildfire mitigation project expenses for eligible private landowners.

Do I need approval before beginning work?

Yes, projects typically must be approved before work begins in order to qualify for reimbursement.

How much funding is available?

Reimbursement percentages and funding limits vary by state and by program year.

Who qualifies for cost-share assistance?

Most programs are available to private, non-federal landowners, though specific eligibility requirements vary by state.

Can Axsus complete approved cost-share work?

Yes, Axsus Land Management completes treatments that align with program standards once projects are approved.