The Nevada Division of Forestry is accepting applications for grants up to $400,000 to purchase private forest land.

Local governments, qualified nonprofit organizations and Indian tribes are eligible to apply for grants to establish community forests through the acquisition of private forest land from a willing seller. NDF administers the pass through of these grants from the U.S. Forest Service, which has $5 million to distribute nationally for this program.

The purpose of the program is to establish community forests by protecting forest land from conversion to non-forest uses and provide community benefits such as sustainable forest management, clean air, water, and wildlife habitat, forest-based educational programs and recreational benefits to the public.

Eligible lands under this program are private forests that are at least 5 acres, suitable to sustain natural vegetation and at least 75 percent forested. The lands must also be threatened by conversion to non-forest uses, not be held in trust by the United States on behalf of any Indian tribe or allotment lands, provide community benefits defined by the Community Forest Program and allow public access.

Applications are due to the Nevada Division of Forestry by Jan. 15. For more info or an application, go online or call  (775) 684.2500.