Operating Capacity Grants
Forecasted
Operating Capacity Grants support Oregon watershed councils and conservation districts, funding operations that engage communities in voluntary watershed restoration and natural resource conservation.
Funder: Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Council Capacity application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Biennial operating support; Council Capacity has no maximum request and requires 5% match
Summary: Supports watershed council and conservation district operations that advance collaborative, voluntary watershed restoration and natural resource conservation in Oregon.
Key Information: Council Capacity eligibility requires local designation, qualifying geographic coverage, an adopted action plan, and approved governance documents.
Description
The Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) awards Operating Capacity Grants biennially to support watershed councils and soil and water conservation districts as they engage communities in collaborative, voluntary watershed restoration. These investments support organizational operations, including staff and contractors, rather than serving solely as funding for individual restoration projects.
District Capacity Grants support 45 soil and water conservation districts working with landowners to conserve natural resources and support the Oregon Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Water Quality Management Program. Council Capacity Grants support watershed councils engaging people in restoration and protection of native fish and wildlife habitat and natural watershed functions to improve water quality or stream flows. Council awards are performance- and outcome-based, with review focused on governance, planning, restoration progress, and engagement.
