Local communities receive wildfire relief and conservation grants

San Bernardino News Daily December 4, 2024

In celebration of Giving Tuesday, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians announced it was granting $1 million to support recovery, conservation, and wildfire prevention efforts in the communities threatened by recent wildfires.

“Giving Tuesday is a day that calls upon us to reflect on the power of collective generosity,” said Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. “We are honored to support our 2024 grant recipients in their efforts to rehabilitate lands affected by the recent wildfires and invest in the long-term health of our communities and ecosystems. The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is deeply committed to preservation and stewardship of the cultural and natural resources of the region.”

The following organizations received grant monies:

The Wildlands Conservancy $200,000 to support clean up and restoration efforts to Bluff Lake which was severely impacted by the Line Fire and will also provide support for replanting of vegetation and removal of invasive growth.
Mojave Desert Land Trust $200,000 to support the design and planning of a comprehensive fire management response plan that can be implemented by MDLT and be shared with other organizations and entities as a resource.
San Bernardino Mountains Land Trust $100,000 to aid in the implementation of a seed bank; this will support collecting and growth of native plants and trees in the mountain area after wildfires or other disasters occur.
Center for Biological Diversity $100,000 to support relationship building between tribes, and lead land stewardship projects and projects in advocacy to protect sacred sites.
Victor Valley College Foundation $100,000 to provide support for students of the “Fire Fighter I” academy to help increase the number of trained fire personnel.
Arrowbear Lake Fire Department $100,000 to help purchase emergency rescue equipment and make modifications to the existing station.
Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians $100,000 to purchase emergency rescue equipment.
Apple Valley Fire Protection District $100,000 to purchase emergency generators for Stations 332 and 334 allowing the stations to maintain operations during critical times enabling effective and efficient response.