Noxious Weed and Invasive Plant Grant

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is offering the Noxious Weed and Invasive Plant Grant for fiscal year 2025. This grant provides financial support to counties, municipalities, tribal governments, and weed management entities across Minnesota to address noxious weed issues within their jurisdictions. The program aims to assist with identification, monitoring, education, control, and eradication of priority invasive plant species. Eligible applicants include authorized representatives from counties, municipalities, tribal nations, and cooperative weed management areas. Applicants outside tribal nations must consult with their local County Agricultural Inspector (CAI) before submitting a proposal. Additionally, applicants need approval from their financial authority prior to applying. The grant offers funding ranging from $10,000 up to $15,000 per project with approximately $150,000 available in total for FY25. Funds can be used for expenses such as postage and printing related to the project, contracted services like private applicators for roadside treatment, staff time limited to 25% of total expenses, and restoration materials capped at 10% of expenses. Projects that incorporate land management practices aimed at limiting erosion, reducing runoff, storing water, protecting native species or are located within vital ecosystems will receive preference. Examples include managing knotweed infestations along waterways or controlling non-native phragmites in lakes. Applicants should prepare proposals that align with these goals and meet all eligibility requirements outlined by MDA. For detailed information on application procedures and deadlines—applications are due by October 23, 2024—visit the Minnesota Department of Agriculture website. This grant opportunity supports efforts to manage invasive plants that impact Minnesota’s natural resources and communities.