This program utilizes qualified non-profit youth- and veteran-serving organizations to carry out appropriate natural and cultural resource conservation, education, volunteer service and education…

The Department of the Interior National Park Service National Office awarded a $180,000 cooperative agreement to Santa Monica Mountains Fund on February 2, 2026, under the Youth and Veteran Organizations Conservation Activities program (CFDA 15.931) to improve trail conditions and reduce wildfire risks in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Santa Monica Mountains Fund will deliver skilled trail maintenance and restoration work, hazardous vegetation removal, and training for trail workers and volunteers. The project runs through February 1, 2027, with performance at Calabasas, California. Deliverables include restored trails, enhanced public safety, and educational programming that fosters environmental stewardship and leadership among youth. The work serves hikers, local communities, and visitors to the heavily used recreation area near a major urban center, while building conservation workforce capacity among young adults.

This program utilizes qualified non-profit youth- and veteran-serving organizations to carry out appropriate natural and cultural resource conservation, education, volunteer service and education projects on department of the interior lands through authorized national park service programs. This project will improve trail conditions and reduce wildfire risks in the santa monica mountains, a heavily used recreation area near a major urban center. Skilled crews will maintain trails, repair damage, and remove hazardous vegetation. The project includes training for trail workers and volunteers, fostering environmental stewardship and leadership among youth. Deliverables include restored trails, enhanced safety, and educational programs. Outcomes will ensure public enjoyment, protect natural resources, and inspire future conservation leaders. Beneficiaries include hikers, local communities, and visitors seeking safe, accessible outdoor experiences.beneficiaries include private non-profit institutions and organizations public and private non-profit academic institutions state and local government agencies quasi-public non-profit institutions and organizations that support youth and young adult career training and development, and education in the areas of natural and or cultural resource conservation and management. Individuals families students and the general public will receive a benefit from the development and execution of these programs and projects.