Watershed Management Grant Program
Forecasted
Watershed Management Grant Program supports Montana watershed groups with locally led planning and capacity building to conserve renewable resources and deliver public benefits.
Funder: Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation
Due Dates (Anticipated): January 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $8,000 per Corps member or $25,000–$50,000 per project, depending on category
Summary: Supports locally led watershed planning and capacity building that conserve, develop, manage, or preserve Montana’s renewable resources.
Key Information: Nonprofits and watershed groups may apply with government sponsorship or a 1:1 match; equipment requires 1:1 match for all applicants.
Description
The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) Watershed Management Grant Program funds locally led watershed planning and organizational capacity building. Administered through the Conservation and Resource Development Division, it supports watershed group formation, organizational strategic plans, mission-aligned programs and initiatives, and Big Sky Watershed Corps host-site costs. Projects must enhance renewable resources and provide public benefits, including implementation of state water plan priorities.
Supported work includes developing bylaws, conducting stakeholder outreach, preparing three- to five-year strategic plans, supporting watershed restoration planning, managing projects, coordinating volunteers, and creating education materials. Watershed groups formed through the program must be self-sustaining, non-regulatory, consensus-based, and composed of diverse stakeholders.
