Wetland Mitigation Banking Program Fiscal Year (FY) 2026
NRCS is offering $3 million in grants for developing wetland mitigation banks to help agricultural producers comply with conservation rules, prioritizing states with many wetlands; applications are competitive.
Funder: Natural Resources Conservation Service
Due Dates: September 8, 2026 (Full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $3,000,000 total; typical awards $100,000–$1,000,000 for 1–4 years; ~7 awards expected
Summary: Supports development and establishment of wetland mitigation banks for agricultural producers to meet wetland compliance requirements.
Key Information: 20% non-federal cost share required; priority to projects in GA, IL, IN, IA, MI, MN, NE, OH, PA, SD, WI.
Description
This opportunity provides competitive grants to eligible entities for the development and establishment of wetland mitigation banks and banking opportunities specifically for agricultural producers who must comply with the wetland conservation provisions of the Food Security Act of 1985. The program aims to increase the availability of wetland mitigation credits for agricultural producers, enabling them to maintain eligibility for USDA program benefits when agricultural wetlands are converted. Priority is given to banks in states with significant numbers of wetlands and compliance requests, notably Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
