Watershed Based Implementation Funding Grant Program
The Watershed Based Implementation Funding Grant Program funds science-based, measurable water quality projects in Minnesota watersheds, guided by comprehensive management plans and administered by BWSR.
Funder: Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources
Due Dates: September 30, 2026 (monthly funding request/workplan deadline) | April 30, 2027 (FY2027 funding request deadline)
Funding Amounts: Typical awards range from ~$500,000–$2,300,000 per watershed for FY26–27; see allocations by watershed for details.
Summary: Supports local and Tribal governments in Minnesota to implement high-priority, measurable water quality projects identified in comprehensive watershed management plans.
Key Information: Funding requests and workplans are processed monthly; all activities must be tied to an eligible, state-approved watershed plan.
Description
The Watershed Based Implementation Funding (WBIF) Grant Program, administered by the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR), provides a streamlined, non-competitive alternative to traditional project-by-project grants for water quality improvement. The program funds collaborative projects by local and Tribal governments that address the most urgent needs within Minnesota’s watersheds, based on comprehensive, state-approved management plans. The main focus is on implementing prioritized, targeted, and measurable actions to protect, enhance, and restore surface water quality in lakes, rivers, and streams, as well as safeguarding groundwater and drinking water sources.
