County Conservation Aids
County Conservation Aids supports Wisconsin county and tribal governing bodies in funding habitat restoration, stocking, and outdoor recreation facilities to strengthen local fish and wildlife programs.
Funder: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates: October 1, 2026 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $148,500 statewide allocation; reimbursement of up to 50% of project costs
Summary: Supports county and tribal fish and wildlife projects, including habitat work, stocking, and outdoor recreation facilities.
Key Information: Applicants must pay project costs before seeking reimbursement and provide the remaining project share.
Description
County Conservation Aids is a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) cost-share program that helps county and tribal governing bodies enhance fish and wildlife programs. Established by the Wisconsin Legislature in 1965 as an alternative to bounty payments for coyotes, foxes, and bobcats, it directs state support toward local conservation projects.
Eligible work includes restoring fish and wildlife habitat, natural communities, and shorelines; stocking fish or wildlife; developing outdoor recreation facilities; and repairing or maintaining existing facilities. Projects can include prairie planting, stream restoration, invasive species removal, trails, fishing piers, boat launches, and repairs to culverts or docks. The program also has a miscellaneous category for county fish and wildlife projects that do not fit its other categories.
