Wisconsin Assessment Monies (WAM) Brownfield Assessment Grant Program

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is now accepting applications for its Wisconsin Assessment Monies (WAM) brownfield assessment grant program. The program is supported through funding received from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which has awarded $5.3 million to the DNR and its partners since 2010. These funds are allocated to support environmental assessments of brownfield sites, which are properties whose redevelopment or reuse may be hindered by real or perceived environmental contamination. Brownfields may range from large former industrial facilities to small abandoned service stations. The WAM program is designed to aid communities and other eligible applicants by providing resources to assess environmental conditions that may be limiting redevelopment efforts. Through this program, the DNR aims to catalyze the revitalization of underutilized properties by clarifying environmental liabilities and informing future cleanup or reuse efforts. Environmental assessments are often a critical first step in the transformation of such properties, and the WAM program helps to mitigate initial barriers to redevelopment. Funding is available in two distinct formats: applicants may apply for up to approximately $54,000 in contractor services managed directly by the DNR, or they may request a subgrant of up to $75,000. In the latter case, communities must select a qualified consultant themselves and oversee the environmental assessment work. The DNR provides oversight and ensures compliance in both funding paths. These options provide flexibility depending on the needs and administrative capacity of the applicant community. Eligible applicants include local governments and other entities seeking to redevelop properties burdened by potential or known contamination. Priority is given to applications that demonstrate strong community involvement and support, particularly in rural or disadvantaged communities. Other considerations in the evaluation process include whether the property is a barrier to a larger redevelopment project, whether there are positive community outcomes such as improved health or economic conditions, and alignment with local redevelopment goals. The WAM grant program operates on a rolling basis and will continue to accept applications until the current grant cycle ends in 2027 or until available funds are exhausted. This flexible application timeline allows communities to apply when they are ready to initiate assessment activities. Over 70 communities across Wisconsin have previously partnered with the DNR through the WAM program, supporting the revitalization of many neglected properties. Interested parties can learn more about the application process, eligibility criteria, and funding specifics by visiting the DNR’s Remediation and Redevelopment Program (RR Program) webpage. Additional inquiries can be directed to Gena Larson via email at Gena.Larson@wisconsin.gov. For press or public information, Jodie Peotter serves as the primary contact and can be reached at Jodie.Peotter@wisconsin.gov or by phone at 608-259-6557.