Monterey Fire Safe Council

The South Coast Fuel Reduction Grant, approved in 2012, was completely funded by year end 2013. With an emphasis on sustaining defensible space, 162.98 acres were treated by contracted foresters, 35 acres treated by property owners as part of the grant match requirements. The total acreage of 197.98 exceeded the 175 acres specified in the grant. Of the $151,167 funding received in 2013, expenditures included $133,436 for contractor agreements. The grant will close in the first quarter of 2014 with the completion of the educational component.

The Carmel Valley Regional Shaded Fuelbreak project was awarded in April 2013. Funding for this project is $124,602. This is a roadside fuel reduction grant - to reduce fuel loading on roadways and to improve ingress and egress. Approximately 3,000 homes are in the purview of this grant. Initial funding received November 2013 was $16,000. Initial expenses include $4,225 for project management. No "on the ground" work was initiated in 2013 due to the need for completion of CEQA analysis.

The Rancho Tierra Grande Residential Chipping & Public Education Grant was approved February 28, 2013. The purpose of this grant is to distribute fire safety educational materials, provide assistance creating defensible space and increase compliance with PRC 4291 (Public Resource Code 4291 require 100 feet of defensible space around structures). Approximately 208 homes will be affected. Of the $58,384 awarded, $33,361 has been funded. Expenses incurred include $19,816 for contractor agreements and $2,272 for project management.