The broad goal of the Oregon Natural Resources Education Fund is to improve natural resources education among high school students. It supports this objective by providing financial assistance for the purchase of related tools, equipment, technology, and educational materials. The grant program is structured around a main fund and three subfunds, each with specific objectives:
- The Main Fund focuses on supporting statewide forestry education programs.
- The subfunds are designed to support specific schools, programs, or regions, with current funds dedicated to Pleasant Hill School District, Benton County, and the Oregon Society of American Foresters.
These subfunds allow for targeted contributions and ensure that local advisory committees have representation, thereby ensuring that the funding aligns closely with the unique needs of different communities and programs. Funding recommendations for all grants are made to the Oregon Community Foundation board of directors, based on assessments by the ONREF Board of Directors and nominations by the ONREF Association, a 501(c)(3) entity. The availability of funds for distribution depends on market conditions, available resources, and demand.