Producer-Led Watershed Protection Grants
Forecasted
Producer-Led Watershed Protection Grants support Wisconsin farmer-led groups with conservation cost sharing, on-farm research, demonstrations, and outreach to improve soil and water quality.
Funder: Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $40,000 per group; reimbursement only, with no upfront payments
Summary: Supports Wisconsin producer-led watershed groups conducting conservation cost sharing, on-farm research, demonstrations, and outreach to improve soil and water quality.
Key Information: Groups need at least five farmers within the same watershed and at least one eligible collaborator.
Description
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) administers the Producer-Led Watershed Protection Grant Program to support producer-led solutions to nonpoint source pollution. The program aims to improve Wisconsin’s soil and water quality by increasing on-the-ground conservation practices and farmer participation in local watershed efforts.
Grants support conservation cost-share programs, on-farm demonstration and research projects, and education and outreach for farmers and other community members. Projects should connect conservation systems and innovative practices directly to water-quality improvements. The program emphasizes farmer-driven ideas, soil health, farmer-to-farmer learning, and the long-term sustainability of local watershed groups.
