Healthy Lakes & Rivers Grants

The Healthy Lakes and Rivers Grant Program is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in collaboration with the University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension and Wisconsin Lakes and River Partnership. As part of the larger Surface Water Grant Program, this initiative supports projects designed to implement cost-effective and accessible best management practices aimed at improving water quality and habitat along shorelands. These practices include fish sticks, native plantings, rain gardens, rock infiltrations, and diversions, with a focus on simplicity and affordability. Funding is available to eligible entities such as lake districts, towns, counties, and nonprofit organizations, but not to individual shoreland property owners directly. However, these owners may participate via eligible sponsors. Grants provide up to $1,000 per Best Practice and up to $25,000 for applicants acting on behalf of multiple properties. The Healthy Lakes and Rivers program has awarded over $1.7 million in funding since 2015, supporting the implementation of over 1,800 best practices across more than 1,000 properties in Wisconsin. The grant program is reimbursement-based, requiring the applicant to front the costs and then request reimbursement. It does not necessitate a pre-application and accepts submissions on a rolling basis throughout the year, although the process remains competitive. Application materials must include an authorizing resolution, a map with parcel-specific project locations, design plans for first-time applicants, and pre-implementation photos of proposed sites. Successful applicants also track volunteer time and expenses for reimbursement. To begin, prospective applicants should consult their regional DNR Environmental Grants Specialist and Lake Biologist for guidance and eligibility confirmation. Applicants then recruit shoreland property owners and conduct site visits to determine which practices will be installed and whether design input is necessary. The program encourages collaboration with local professionals and volunteers, such as landscape designers or conservation department staff. Upon submission and approval, recipients will receive a standardized grant agreement outlining required deliverables. Projects must conclude within three years from the application date, and the official timeline is specified in the agreement. Payment processing is conducted through the organization’s designated address, ideally a dedicated P.O. box to simplify future updates. Comprehensive guidance, application documents, financial administration resources, and instructional materials are provided via the program’s dedicated websites and fact sheets. These tools are aimed at easing navigation of the grant lifecycle, from recruitment through reporting and reimbursement.

Engage local champions early; use a dedicated PO Box for administrative ease; work closely with regional DNR representatives to strengthen applications.