Klamath Falls, Oregon – Klamath County has opened a new funding opportunity for projects that could help local communities prepare for wildfires, strengthen emergency response services, and improve access to digital learning. But organizations interested in receiving support have a limited window to apply.
The county’s Fall 2026 Title III Grant Program is accepting applications through October 30, with updated federal rules and documentation requirements that applicants must follow to qualify for funding.
Klamath County officially opened the application period at 8 a.m. on October 1. The deadline is 5 p.m. on Friday, October 30, 2026. County officials have made it clear that late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.
The program operates under the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000, which was recently reauthorized through the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025, Public Law 119-58.
The renewed federal legislation allows participating counties to continue initiating eligible Title III projects. However, changes to the law and Klamath County’s application process mean organizations should carefully examine the latest requirements before submitting proposals.
Five categories of projects currently qualify for consideration.
These include wildfire education and prevention efforts through the Firewise Communities Program, reimbursement for qualifying emergency services conducted on federal land, and reimbursement for eligible emergency response training and equipment.
Funding can also support the development and implementation of Community Wildfire Protection Plans and projects that expand broadband connectivity or digital learning access for local students.
One particularly important change concerns emergency services training and equipment.
Organizations seeking reimbursement must provide records showing the proportion of qualifying emergency responses conducted on federal land over a five-year historical period. That percentage determines how much of the proposed expense may qualify for Title III reimbursement.
Applicants must submit the updated project submission form, budget worksheet, supporting documents, and an active SAM.gov Unique Entity Identifier.
Receiving funding is not automatic.
Federal requirements include a 45-day public-comment period before projects can receive final approval. Following that process, the county’s Title III Committee and Board of Commissioners will review project eligibility, proposals, and public feedback.
Importantly, submitting an application does not authorize spending. Costs incurred before a project agreement is executed cannot be reimbursed through the program.
Interested organizations can find application forms, budget documents, and additional guidance on the Klamath County Title III Grant Program webpage.
Questions about the application process can be directed to Klamath County Finance at 541-883-4202.
