Coordinated Natural Resources Conservation Grants

The Coordinated Natural Resources Conservation Grants, administered by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources through its Resource Conservation and Forestry Division, provide financial assistance to conservation districts within the state for projects that yield tangible natural resource benefits. This grant program is part of the broader efforts of the South Dakota State Conservation Commission to support the sustainable management and protection of South Dakota’s natural landscapes and agricultural infrastructure. Grants are issued twice annually, with two cycles—spring and fall—intended to maximize access to conservation funds and improve strategic project planning across seasons. These grants are open to all officially organized conservation districts operating within South Dakota. Eligible applicants must submit their applications using an approved form or a format matching the official template. The two fixed annual deadlines are March 1 for the Spring cycle and October 1 for the Fall cycle. Applications must be received by the Resource Conservation and Forestry Division no later than these dates. The program operates on a competitive basis, meaning submitted proposals are evaluated and ranked based on their conservation merits and potential impact. Funding availability is limited, and not all qualifying projects may receive support, underscoring the importance of project clarity and alignment with conservation priorities. Supported projects under this program reflect a diverse set of natural resource conservation goals. Previously funded activities have included windbreak tree planting and renovation, water development for livestock to protect riparian areas, construction and seeding of waterways, rangeland and pastureland improvements such as rotational grazing, and implementation of no-till cropping systems. Biological weed control has also been supported, particularly in fragile or inaccessible areas. Many successful projects also incorporate an educational or informational component to increase public awareness or stakeholder engagement in conservation practices. To apply, applicants must complete a multi-part application that includes basic organizational information, project description, legal land information, a comprehensive budget divided into operating, activity, and partner contributions, and narrative sections that detail project needs, beneficiaries, ecological goals, and long-term sustainability. In addition to the main application form, conservation commission grant applicants must submit a formal motion of approval from their conservation district board, along with any maps, figures, or photographs that help visualize the project scope. Supporting documentation is essential, particularly for demonstrating local support and partner commitments. Applicants are advised to thoroughly review Chapter 12:03:05 of the South Dakota Administrative Rules, which outlines requirements for allowable costs, grant period durations, ineligible activities, and mandatory prior year reporting. Projects must align with the goals of the Coordinated Plan for the Natural Resources Conservation and should demonstrate the capacity for implementation, maintenance, and post-project evaluation. The inclusion of federal, state, or local permitting requirements, where applicable, must also be clearly addressed in the application. For assistance in completing the application or to obtain official forms, applicants can contact the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Resource Conservation and Forestry Division, at 605-773-3623. Applicants must also submit a W-9 form along with their completed application materials. The program’s emphasis on project clarity, environmental outcomes, and alignment with state conservation priorities makes it a critical opportunity for districts seeking to enhance South Dakota’s natural resource health through locally-driven initiatives.