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ATTACHMENT CWCB Construction Fund 2008-2009 Non-Reimbursable Project Application Part B. Description of the Project or Study 4. Please provide a brief narrative description of the proposed study or demonstration project including purpose, need, and service area. The Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) is proposing a four year continuation of the Community Forest Restoration grant program established by the General Assembly in HB07- 1130. The purpose of the program is to encourage diverse local stakeholders to work together to develop and implement forest restoration projects that protect critical water supplies and address related forest health challenges such as wildfire risk reduction, community protection, ecological restoration and woody biomass utilization. The need to reduce the risk of wildfire to critical watersheds and water supply infrastructure provides a clear nexus between forest management and water supply interests. The Colorado General Assembly recognized this connection in CRS 23.30.301(II)(d) by noting, "excessive runoff and soil erosion that occurs following wildfires poses a substantial threat to water quantity and quality in areas dependent on forest watersheds." Forest management practices including, but not limited to, thinning, selective harvest, prescribed fire, chipping, and planting of trees in deforested areas can be used to reduce wildfire risk and restore forest resilience. In addition, all forest management activities overseen by the CSFS are implemented in accordance with Colorado's Best Management Practices for Protecting Water Quality. The General Assembly provided one year of funding for the CFR grant program through SB07- 122. The CSFS issued a request for initial project proposals and received 46 requests for projects totaling $3 million. The agency facilitated review and selection of proposals for funding within two months of the legislation's passage and recently issued grant awards for 12 projects using the $1 million available. The CFR program was originally envisioned as a five year pilot program to encourage Colorado communities to work together, and learn from each other, in protecting forested watersheds. This proposal would enable the CSFS and interested communities to build on the initial year's success while also strengthening ties to the protection of critical watersheds. Although HB07-1130 sunsets on Julyl, 2008, Rep. Dan Gibbs, the bill's original sponsor, has committed to its reauthorization. In addition, the CSFS has existing authority in CRS 23.30.202 to implement all the key components of HB07-1130 if funding for such activity is made available. CWCP Construction Fund Page 1 2008-2009 Non-Reimbursable Project Application