Applications open for Snohomish County Conservation Futures grants
Up to $9 million in grant funding available for preservation of open space, ag land, and timberland.
Courtesy of Snohomish County
Snohomish County is accepting applications for the 2026 Snohomish County Conservation Futures Program (SCCFP) Grants until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, September 18, 2026. Up to $9 million is available for distribution in 2026 for the preservation of open space, agricultural land, and timberland.
“Over the years, the Conversation Futures Program has helped direct more than $80 million toward preserving Snohomish County’s natural spaces, protecting habitats and farmland, and ensuring we keep the quality of life that our remarkable natural landscape provides,” County Executive Dave Somers said. “This program has allowed our communities to invest in preservation efforts all over the county, and our people and environment will benefit from that work for generations.”
“Snohomish County’s extraordinary natural landscapes, from the Cascade Mountains to the Puget Sound, help define our community and inspire residents and visitors alike,” said Snohomish County Councilmember Nate Nehring. “Through the Conservation Futures Program, we are preserving these treasured lands, protecting critical habitat, and supporting agricultural conservation for future generations. I look forward to the next round of funding and the projects that will help protect our county’s natural heritage for years to come.”
“Snohomish County is home to some of the region’s most diverse and captivating outdoor recreational areas,” said Snohomish County Councilmember Jared Mead. “Residents and visitors alike can enjoy the natural beauty, from evergreen forests to salmon-bearing streams to the stunning mountain views and the Puget Sound. Thanks to the Conservation Futures Program, we can prioritize funding to ensure preservation of our most cherished natural spaces for generations to come.”
"The Conservation Futures Program has helped preserve some of Snohomish County’s most treasured natural areas, working farms, and forest lands for nearly four decades," said Sharon Walker, Director of Snohomish County Parks & Recreation. "These investments protect important habitats, support agriculture and forestry, expand opportunities for outdoor recreation, and help ensure future generations can enjoy the landscapes that make Snohomish County such a special place to live. We encourage eligible organizations and agencies to apply and help us continue this important conservation work."
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 September 2026 Conservation Futures Program Advisory Board (CFPAB) meeting and recommended to the Executive and Snohomish County Council in October 2026.
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.
