The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) will give out more than $43 million in funds for 66 fire prevention projects across the state, including nearly $5.5 million within the Tri-Counties.

The grants will enable local organizations to address the risk of wildfire and reduce the potential of wildfires in communities, according to a news release from Cal Fire.

Funded activities include fuel reduction, wildfire planning, and fire prevention education. These projects all meet the goals of California’s Strategic Fire Plan adopted in 2018, as well as the recommendations of Cal Fire’s “Community Wildfire Prevention & Mitigation Report.”

Related fire prevention projects within the Tri-Counties are receiving the funds. In Ventura County $90,231 will be allotted; in Santa Barbara County some $2.75 million; and in San Luis Obispo County some $2.65 million.

Over $33 million of the funds will be provided by the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund for California Climate Investments, a statewide program that works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, strengthen the economy and improve public health and the environment. An additional $10 million comes from Cal Fire’s Community Wildfire Prevention Program.

— Contact Annabelle Blair at ablair@pacbiztimes.com