Best Water Grants

The Sanitary & Storm Sewer Funding program supports projects aimed at improving wastewater treatment and storm water management in South Dakota. Grants and low-interest loans are available, with eligibility contingent on inclusion in the State Water Facilities Plan. Additional subsidies may be granted based on established water rates and economic development needs. Applications are accepted quarterly, and projects must meet specific requirements to qualify for funding.

The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services is inviting proposals for projects aimed at reducing nonpoint source pollution in waterbodies across South Carolina. Projects should achieve measurable water quality improvements and align with an approved watershed plan. Administered in consultation with the EPA, these grants support initiatives that incorporate best management practices and require a non-federal match. Eligible projects must focus on on-the-ground implementation to enhance local water quality.

The Forest Health Grant from CAL FIRE aims to enhance the resilience of California's forests against extreme disturbances such as wildfires and drought. This program supports landscape-scale projects focused on restoring forest health, protecting water resources, and promoting carbon storage. By funding activities that improve forest management and reforestation, CAL FIRE addresses climate change impacts while ensuring the sustainability of vital ecosystems. Eligible projects must demonstrate clear climate benefits through various management practices.

The KY Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) offers year-round applications to enhance conservation efforts for agricultural lands. This program supports producers in improving grazing conditions, increasing crop resilience, and developing wildlife habitats through tailored conservation plans. Participants benefit from annual payments for implementing sustainable practices while maintaining existing conservation efforts. With a commitment to conservation, CSP aids in achieving a healthier ecosystem and better agricultural operations, making it a vital resource for Kentucky farmers.

The ME Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) empowers agricultural producers to enhance conservation efforts while improving their operations. This program provides technical and financial assistance for implementing conservation practices that promote better soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitats. CSP supports diverse agricultural activities and ensures compliance with USDA guidelines. With no minimum acreage requirement, it encourages participation from various landowners, allowing for a comprehensive approach to sustainable land management in Maine.

The UT Agricultural Management Assistance Grant supports agricultural producers in managing financial risk through diversification and conservation practices. Administered by NRCS, the program offers financial assistance covering up to 75% of conservation practice costs, with a cap of $50,000 annually per participant. Eligible producers must engage in agriculture, control the land for the contract duration, and comply with specific provisions. This initiative aims to enhance sustainability and resource management in Utah's agricultural sector.

The Capacity Building Initiative (CBI) by the Chesapeake Bay Funders Network aims to enhance the organizational capacity of groups working towards community well-being and natural resource management. Funded projects may include strategic planning, staff training, and technology assistance, with funding requests typically capped at $40,000 for nonprofits and $150,000 for local governments. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and local governments operating within the Chesapeake watershed, focusing on water and natural resource goals.

The MT Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) empowers agricultural producers to enhance conservation efforts while improving their operations. With year-round applications, the program offers technical and financial assistance tailored to individual goals, whether it's boosting crop resilience or wildlife habitat. Participants benefit from annual payments and can access additional funds through bundled enhancements. CSP's commitment ensures sustainable practices that lead to healthier ecosystems and profitable agricultural enterprises across Montana.

The Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program, administered by USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, aims to assist agricultural producers in managing financial risks through practices such as resource conservation and marketing. Participants can receive up to 75% financial assistance for conservation practices, with a cap of $50,000 per fiscal year. Eligibility includes being engaged in agricultural production and having control of the land for the contract term.

The NH Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) enhances existing conservation efforts for agricultural producers, offering tailored plans to improve land management. With no minimum acreage requirement, eligible participants can receive annual payments for implementing conservation practices. The program also supports a Grassland Conservation Initiative, protecting grazing lands and promoting wildlife habitat. Participants benefit from increased resilience to market volatility and reduced agricultural inputs. The CSP is a vital tool for sustainable farming, helping producers meet conservation goals while maintaining productivity.

The Connecticut Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) offers vital support to farmers and landowners, providing technical and financial assistance to enhance conservation efforts on working lands. This program addresses key issues like water quality, soil health, and wildlife habitat, while supporting sustainable agricultural practices. Participants can benefit from customized conservation plans, reducing pollution and improving resilience against climate variability. EQIP also includes targeted initiatives for specific environmental challenges, ensuring comprehensive support for agricultural sustainability.

The SC Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) offers year-round applications to enhance conservation efforts on agricultural lands. It aids producers in improving grazing, increasing crop resilience, and developing wildlife habitats through custom-designed plans. Participants can receive annual payments for implementing new practices and maintaining existing efforts. CSP is the largest conservation program in the U.S., helping landowners achieve better environmental outcomes while improving their operations. Eligible applicants must meet specific land and income criteria.

The Connecticut Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) supports farmers and landowners in enhancing their existing conservation efforts while improving agricultural operations. The program offers technical and financial assistance for practices that promote environmental stewardship, such as improving soil health and wildlife habitats. Participants can receive annual payments and bundles of enhancements, all while committing to a five-year contract aimed at sustainable land management. CSP is designed for all producers, regardless of operation size or type of crops.

The NV Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program, managed by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, offers vital financial assistance to agricultural producers. By supporting practices like water management and resource conservation, the AMA aims to mitigate financial risks associated with farming. Participants can receive up to 75% funding for conservation efforts, with annual payments capped at $50,000. This program is crucial for enhancing sustainable agriculture and supporting historically underserved producers in Nevada.

The Small Community Planning Grant Program offers financial assistance to small communities for water and wastewater infrastructure management. Eligible entities can receive up to $10,000 for engineering studies, covering 80% of costs. The program aims to help communities develop necessary engineering reports for their projects. To qualify, communities must serve populations of 2,500 or fewer and meet specific eligibility criteria. This proactive approach ensures that essential infrastructure needs are addressed effectively.

The Texas Water Development Fund (DFund) offers state-funded loans for a variety of infrastructure projects, including water supply and flood control initiatives. Eligible applicants include political subdivisions and nonprofit water supply corporations. The program streamlines funding by allowing multiple project components to be included in one loan. As of FY 2020, approximately $2.7 billion has been committed, with applications requiring a pre-application conference to discuss eligibility and project details.

The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) provides low-cost financing for water projects that ensure compliance with drinking water standards. With year-round funding, eligible applicants such as public and nonprofit water systems can secure assistance for planning, design, and construction of water infrastructure. For FY 2024, $435 million is available, including $95 million in principal forgiveness. Applications open in December and close in March, requiring submission of a Project Information Form.

Alaska Fish and Wildlife Fund

2027 Request for Proposals

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) is soliciting proposals to further conservation of species and habitats in Alaska. The Alaska Fish and Wildlife Fund (AFWF) invests in projects that achieve or substantially lead to measurable on-the-ground conservation outcomes and fill key information gaps through assessments and strategic monitoring that result in improved habitat or population management actions. The availability of federal funds estimated in this solicitation is contingent upon the federal appropriations process. Funding decisions will be made based on level of funding and timing of when it is received by NFWF.

Support for the AFWF is provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS). Grants may be awarded using one or more of these sources of funding.

The Coastal Zone Management Grant Program, managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, supports projects that protect coastal resources in Pennsylvania's Delaware Estuary and Lake Erie. Open for applications from September 9, 2024, to October 21, 2024, the program promotes initiatives focused on coastal hazards, public access, and ecological preservation. Eligible applicants include local governments, educational institutions, and nonprofits. Grants help fund planning, construction, and research projects essential for sustaining coastal ecosystems and enhancing public access.

About MNRCP

The Maine Natural Resource Conservation Program (MNRCP) awards competitive grants to projects that restore, enhance, and protect high priority aquatic resources throughout Maine. MNRCP is administered by The Nature Conservancy on behalf of the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Since its launch in 2008, MNRCP has awarded over $36 million to non-profit groups, municipalities, and public agencies to help restore, enhance, or preserve wetlands and other important habitats at over 180 project sites across the state.

MNRCP was created to manage the allocation of funds collected through Maine’s In Lieu Fee Compensation Program. This voluntary program provides flexibility for regulators as well as for those seeking natural resource permits to choose a fee in lieu of more traditional permittee-responsible mitigation options. These so-called In Lieu Fees are collected by the Maine DEP and then transferred to the Natural Resource Conservation Fund administered by The Nature Conservancy.

Funds are awarded through an annual competitive grants process. Proposals are solicited each year and evaluated by a Review Committee, convened by the Maine DEP, and made up of public and nonprofit entities. Final award decisions are made in November or December of each year by the Interagency Review Team (Approval Committee) comprised of state and federal agencies. The Nature Conservancy administers the process but does not decide which proposals receive funding.

Apply

MNRCP awards competitive grants each year to projects that restore, enhance, and protect high priority aquatic resources in Maine. MNRCP funding rounds are usually announced in April or May. Public agencies, non-profit conservation organizations, tribes, and municipalities are encouraged to submit a Letter of Intent for eligible projects.

The PTES Worldwide Conservation Insight Grants support scientific research and practical conservation efforts aimed at preserving endangered species. Grants range from £3,000 to £10,000 annually, up to a total of £20,000 over two years. Eligible applicants include researchers and conservationists working on critical conservation questions or local actions. The fund prioritizes projects with clear, sustainable outcomes that benefit endangered species and their habitats, particularly in low-income countries.

The Coastal Fund (CF) Grant provides vital funding to support projects that preserve and enhance coastal ecosystems at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Aimed at fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship, the grant encourages proposals that align with the Coastal Fund's mission. Eligible applicants include UCSB-affiliated departments and registered nonprofits, with funding typically around $200,000 allocated quarterly. This initiative is essential for advancing ecological research and restoration efforts in the Santa Barbara region.

The DCNR State and Regional Partnerships' Grants support collaborative projects aimed at enhancing local and regional capacity for managing recreation and park facilities while promoting conservation efforts. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and municipal entities that comply with tax-exempt regulations. Projects may involve training, education, or implementation of conservation strategies, with a mandatory 50/50 funding match. This initiative fosters community engagement and sustainable resource management across Pennsylvania.

The DCNR Community Recreation and Conservation Planning Grants support planning projects aimed at enhancing parks and recreational facilities. Eligible applicants, including municipalities and qualified organizations, can develop comprehensive plans for land conservation, indoor facility feasibility, and site development. The program emphasizes community involvement and requires a 50% match for funding. It fosters sustainable management of natural resources, ensuring a balanced approach to conservation and recreation.

The DCNR Land Acquisition and Conservation Grants support projects aimed at purchasing or donating land for parks, recreation areas, greenways, and critical habitats. Eligible applicants include county and municipal governments, educational institutions, and prequalified land trusts. The grants promote public access to community spaces and protect essential ecosystems, ensuring sustainable land use for future generations. For more details, applicants should refer to the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund Act guidelines.

The Burning Foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, totaling around $650,000 annually, to support environmental 501(c)(3) organizations in Washington and Oregon. The foundation focuses on preserving habitats that enhance biodiversity and promote quiet recreation. Eligible projects must align with their mission of protecting local rivers, forests, and ecosystems. Preference is given to local initiatives over national organizations, encouraging grassroots efforts in environmental conservation.

The Alice Huffard Richards Fund provides environmental grants aimed at conserving and stewarding the natural resources of the West Georgia Region. The fund supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits engaged in river monitoring, recycling projects, and community education initiatives. Grants are specifically for projects in Carroll, Haralson, or Heard counties, promoting environmental awareness and community engagement to protect local ecosystems. This initiative empowers individuals to contribute meaningfully to their environment.