Wisconsin Grants

This grant is issued to Wisconsin counties or municipalities that participate in boating enforcement efforts. Eligible agencies may receive law enforcement aids for up to 75% of their net costs. ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS A unit of government authorizing the patrol must contain at least one of the following within its jurisdiction: a lake of at least 100 acres in size, determined by the current department lake survey; or, at least one mile of river within the jurisdiction of the unit of government.

The Wisconsin Forest Landowner Grant Program (WFLGP) WFLGP program [PDF] is a cost share program offered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). It is designed to assist woodland owners in protecting and enhancing their woodlands. This program reimburses woodland owners up to 50% of the cost of eligible practices. Grant amounts are based on the type of project and number of acres to be completed.

The DNR and the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) offer cost share funding grants to governmental units working with owners and operators of livestock operations to meet pollution control requirements imposed by the DNR. ELIGIBLE PROJECTS Eligible projects are those designed to implement best management practices (BMPs) for improving water quality impaired by pollution discharges at an animal feeding operation satisfying the conditions of the NOD or NOI. INELIGIBLE PROJECTS Ineligible projects are those that address previously in-compliance facilities, were included in a previous offer of cost-sharing, cover routine maintenance and operation of BMPs, or cover a significant expansion of the livestock operation.

County conservation grants provide financial assistance to enhance county/tribal fish and wildlife programs. This Fish and Wildlife Management Grant Program was created to assist counties in the improvement of the fish and wildlife resources. The fund was established by the Wisconsin Legislature in 1965 as an alternative to bounty payments on coyote, foxes and bobcats. Every year since the bounty program was canceled, a state allocation equal to the average annual bounty payment has been earmarked as matching money for a growing list of county-sponsored fish and wildlife habitat projects. After the state budget is approved, funds are allocated to each county in proportion to the ratio of the size of each county to the total area of the state.

The goal of the Landowner Incentive Program (LIP) is to help private landowners create and manage habitat for species that are rare or declining. The program provides management advice, assistance with management plans and cost share funding to individuals and organizations on private lands — with a focus on the Driftless Area of Wisconsin. The LIP is a cost-share program, and the DNR can reimburse a landowner for up to 75% of the cost for the on-the-ground practices that are involved in the management of the project

The Angler Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation (Angler R3) grant program provides financial assistance to partners who conduct Angler R3 programs and activities in Wisconsin. Funding is provided through the Dingell Johnson Sportfish Restoration Act, a federal aid program. The goals of the Angler R3 grant program are to grow the numbers of anglers in Wisconsin and expand angling participation among adults, particularly from non-traditional audiences. To achieve these goals, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will award cost-sharing funds to community-based organizations, community centers, government agencies, Wisconsin tribes, colleges, universities and schools to ensure the education and development of safe and ethical adult anglers. Grant awards may be up to 75% share of total eligible project costs.

The Women's Giving Circle Grant Fund is a competitive grant opportunity offered annually by the Women's Giving Circle (WGC) of Dunn County. The WGC aims to support the needs of women and families in Dunn County through collaborative philanthropy. Non-profit organizations that primarily benefit women and/or children/families are eligible to apply. The typical award amounts range from $500 to $2,500 or more. Applicants must be certified 501(c)(3) organizations or governmental/educational organizations. The proposed project must have a geographical focus on Dunn County and demonstrate cultural sensitivity. The grant does not fund capital campaigns, deficit reductions, organizational endowments, travel grants, event tickets/sponsorships, ongoing operational expenses, grants to individuals, political parties/activities/candidates/action committees, or programs requiring adherence to religious beliefs. Only one grant proposal per organization is allowed per cycle, and all funds must be used within one year unless an extension is granted. The decision process involves review by the grants committee and final approval by the WGC board members in July. Notification of decisions will be sent in August, and the grant funds must be used within one calendar year. Grantees are required to acknowledge support from the Women's Giving Circle in their project materials and submit a final grant report within 30 days of project completion or one year from the award date. To apply for this grant opportunity, eligible applicants must create an account on the Community Foundation's online grant application system starting in January 2022. Required uploads include current Board of Directors information, organizational budget with projected revenues/expenses for the current year, audited financial statement (if available), and proof of current IRS 990 filing. For more information or assistance with the application process, applicants can contact the Community Foundation at 715-232-8019 or email [email protected]. Funding Organization: Women's Giving Circle (WGC) of Dunn County Contact Information: Community Foundation of Dunn County, 715-232-8019, [email protected] Award Details: Typical award amounts range from $500 to $2,500 or more. Eligibility: Non-profit organizations that primarily benefit women and/or children/families. Applicants

This grant provides financial support to educators in the School District of the Menomonie Area for projects that enhance learning and academic achievement, particularly in history, culture, and the arts.

This funding opportunity supports organizations working to improve shoreland habitat and water quality by implementing best practices on behalf of multiple property owners in Wisconsin.

Grant Name: Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Funding Organization: Federal program administered in most states Contact Information: Bobbi Winebar, Department of Natural Resources, 2984 Shawano Ave, Green Bay, WI 54313, (920) 461-2595 Program Intent: The RTP provides reimbursement for the development, rehabilitation, and maintenance of recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both motorized and non-motorized recreational trail uses. Award Details: Eligible sponsors may be reimbursed for up to 80% of eligible project costs. Funds from this program may be used in conjunction with funds from other state grant programs that also fund trail projects. Eligibility: Towns, villages, cities, counties, tribal governing bodies, school districts, state agencies, federal agencies or incorporated organizations are eligible to apply. Incorporated organizations must be incorporated under s. 181, Wis. Stats., and have a primary purpose of promoting outdoor recreation trails activities. Eligible Projects (in order of priority): 1. Maintenance and restoration of existing trails 2. Development and rehabilitation of trailside and trailhead facilities and trail linkages 3. Construction of new trails (with certain restrictions on federal lands) 4. Acquisition of easements and fee simple title to property for recreational trails or recreational trail corridors (must comply with the provisions of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970) Deadline: Applications are typically due on May 1 each year. Additional Information: The RTP legislation prohibits using funds for condemnation of any kind of interest in property. Non-motorized projects constitute 30% of funding category definitions while motorized projects constitute another 30%. Diversified projects that include both motorized and nonmotorized uses make up the remaining 40%.

Grant Name: Snowmobile Enforcement Patrol Grant Funding Organization: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Contact Information: For more information on these grants, please contact your local recreation warden. Notice of intent must be submitted before June 1st of the patrol year. Grant Intent: This grant is issued to Wisconsin sheriff departments that participate in snowmobile enforcement efforts. The DNR can provide up to 100% of county net cost for the enforcement of snowmobile regulations. Actual funding received is based on total allotted funds split between participating agencies. Eligible Applicants: Sheriff departments are eligible to receive grants for snowmobile patrols. Forms Required: Prior to Patrol - Intent to Patrol [PDF], Patrol Activities - Enforcement Patrol Daily Log [PDF], Enforcement Patrol Monthly Report [PDF], Accident Forms - ATV/Snowmobile Operator Incident Report [PDF], ATV/Snowmobile Officer Report Form [PDF], Audit Paperwork - State Aid Application - Snowmobile/ATV [PDF], Salary Schedule [PDF], Travel, Materials, and Supply Schedule [PDF], Depreciation Schedule-Straight Line Method [PDF], Record of Violations [PDF]. Additional Information: The grant is renewed every year. A link to the manual can be found at https://widnr.widen.net/s/6zcxqwxcr2/le0503.

The C.D. Besadny Conservation Fund is a grant opportunity that invests in grassroots conservation and education projects benefiting Wisconsin's lands, waters, and wildlife, while also connecting people to the state's natural resources. The grants range from $500 to $2,000. The fund has several grantmaking priorities, including projects that benefit Wisconsin's imperiled natural communities and native plant or wildlife species, engage and impact underserved communities or support diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within Wisconsin's conservation and environmental education sectors, and build climate resiliency through natural climate solutions or climate adaptation. Projects should demonstrate measurable outcomes and encourage innovation through resource leverage and partnerships. Eligible applicants include public charities with approved 501(c)(3) exempt status (under section 509(a)(1), 509(a)(2), or 509(a)(3) Type I and Type II), federal, state, or local governmental units, American Indian nations or tribal communities, or accredited schools, colleges, or universities. Ineligible organizations include individuals, businesses, section 509(a)(3) Type III supporting organizations, private foundations, and private operating foundations. Projects must benefit Wisconsin's natural resources or people. The total project budget cannot exceed $10,000 with overhead costs limited to 15% of the grant amount. Project expenses incurred prior to submitting the application are not eligible. A one-to-one match is required and can include in-kind support such as volunteer hours or donated materials. Only one application per organization per grant cycle will be accepted. To apply for the grant opportunity: 1. Ensure your project addresses the grantmaking priorities and meets eligibility requirements. 2. Complete the application (paper copies not accepted). 3. Include proof of IRS tax-exempt status (IRS form 501c3 tax determination letter). 4. Submit all materials by email to Lindsey at [email protected] by September 1st. Applicants will be notified within six weeks following the submission deadline. For more information or inquiries, contact Lindsey Taylor, Conservation Programs Coordinator, at (608) 409-3145 or [email protected]. The grant is renewed every year with a deadline of September 1st.

Grant Name: Teachers' Outdoor Environmental Education Fund Funding Organization: Wisconsin Conservation Foundation Contact Information: Lindsey Taylor, Conservation Programs Coordinator - Phone: (608) 409-3145 - Email: [email protected] Program Intent: The Teachers Outdoor Environmental Education Fund aims to provide meaningful outdoor environmental education learning experiences for public school students in Wisconsin. The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate a clear connection to classroom learning and standards, as well as those that have a significant component of outdoor activity. Award Details: Grants of up to $1,000 are available for eligible projects. A one-to-one match is required, which can include in-kind support such as volunteer hours or donated materials. Only one application per school per year will be accepted. The grant is renewed annually, with a deadline for applications on May 1st. Applicants will be notified within six weeks. Eligibility: - Applicants must be teachers at a Wisconsin public school (K-12). - Projects must address the grantmaking priorities and meet the eligibility requirements. - Proof of IRS tax-exempt status (IRS form 501c3 tax determination letter) or a letter of support from the school administration should be included with the application. To apply, complete the application form (paper copies not accepted) and submit all materials to Lindsey at [email protected] by May 1st. Note: This grant opportunity is specifically for nonprofits seeking funding for outdoor environmental education programs in Wisconsin public schools.

This grant provides funding to urban governments in Wisconsin to create and implement plans for managing wildlife populations, specifically targeting issues caused by white-tailed deer and Canada geese.

Program Name: LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND (LWCF) PROGRAM Funding Organization: Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Contact Information: For assistance with LWCF grants, contact Pam Rood, your regional DNR Stewardship contact. Award Details: Grants cover 50% of eligible project costs. Eligible Applicants: Towns, villages, cities, counties, tribal governments, school districts or other state political subdivisions. Eligible Projects: 1. Land acquisition or development projects that provide opportunities for public outdoor recreation. 2. Property with frontage on rivers, streams, lakes, estuaries and reservoirs that provide water-based outdoor recreation. 3. Property that provides special recreation opportunities such as floodplains, wetlands, and areas adjacent to scenic highways. 4. Natural areas and outstanding scenic areas that preserve scenic or natural values and are open to the general public for outdoor recreation use without impairing the natural attributes of the areas. 5. Land or development within urban areas for day-use picnic areas. 6. Land or development of nature-based outdoor recreation trails. 7. Development of basic outdoor recreation facilities. 8. Renovation of existing outdoor recreation facilities in danger of being lost for public use. Ineligible Project Examples: 1. Projects not supported by a local comprehensive outdoor recreational plan. 2. Acquisition and development of golf courses. 3. Projects where stormwater management is the primary purpose. 4. Lands that include cell towers. 5. Land that will be used for non-outdoor public recreation purposes. Deadlines and Funding Cycles: - Completed applications must be submitted to your regional Stewardship community service specialist by May 1 each year. - Department of Natural Resources regional staff review and rate eligible projects in early June. - Final project listing is compiled in July with projects ranking the highest selected for grants based on available funds. - Final selected projects will be reviewed and approved by the National Park Service before the sponsor receives an agreement with the DNR. Note: The grant is renewable every year, and the application period closes on May 1st each year.

The Well Abandonment Grant program provides financial assistance to properly fill and seal abandoned or unused private wells. Eligible applicants include landowners, their spouses, heirs, legal representatives, renters of the land, and shared well owners of a private residential water supply. To qualify, applicants must have a family income of $65,000 or less from the prior calendar year, with reduced reimbursement for those earning between $45,000 and $65,000. The grant covers the costs of materials and labor required for well abandonment. Applications must be submitted and approved by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) before any work begins to qualify for reimbursement. The application process involves obtaining an itemized estimate from a licensed well driller or pump installer, completing the necessary DNR forms, and submitting them via email or mail. Approved applicants will receive a grant award packet and must complete the well abandonment within one year. Reimbursement, which covers 75% of eligible expenses, is processed after submitting the completed reimbursement forms.

This program provides financial assistance to various governmental entities, organizations, and educational institutions in Wisconsin for the construction and improvement of shooting ranges.

This program provides financial support to Wisconsin fire departments and county fire associations to improve their capabilities in fighting forest fires through equipment, training, and resources.

Grant Opportunity: Sport Fish Restoration - Fishing Pier (SFR-FP) Funding Organization: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Contact Information: - Name: Faith M Murray - Email Address: [email protected] - Work Phone: (920) 461-8206 - Work Address: NATURAL RESOURCES, DEPT OF, GREEN BAY, WI 54313 Intent and Eligibility: The Sport Fish Restoration - Fishing Pier grant program provides funding for the construction and renovation of fishing piers primarily designed to provide public access for shore fishing. Eligible applicants include counties, towns, cities, villages, tribes, sanitary districts, public inland lake protection and rehabilitation districts, and qualified lake associations. Matching contributions must come from non-federal sources. Application Deadline: Applications for the Sport Fish Restoration Fishing Pier grant must be submitted by October 1 each year. Application Materials: To apply for the grant, applicants must submit various materials including the Sport Fish Restoration Grant Programs Application (Form 8700-385), Grant Project Authorizing Resolution (Form 8700-388), project location maps, topographical maps of the project area showing land disturbance area, illustrations of the current condition of the project area, drawings or site plans of the proposed project area including buildings and facilities, preliminary or final engineering plans with pier designs, draft easement/lease/MOU documents if applicable, and copies of required permits if already received. Submission Process: All grant applications should be emailed to [email protected]. The subject line of the email should indicate the type of grant being applied for. Application materials should be saved in PDF format and not exceed 15 megabytes in size. If email size exceeds 15 MB, documents can be sent in multiple emails. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that their application is submitted by the deadline. Additional Resources: Applicants are advised to read the Program Guidance for U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Subaward Grant Program: Boating Infrastructure Grant, Clean Vessel Act, and Sport Fish Restoration for Boat Access and Fishing Piers [PDF]. Accessibility guidance for grant-funded projects (CF-031) and the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and

Grant Program: EC-SDC Grant Program for OTM / Non-Profit NN Systems Funding Organization: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Contact Information: - Application Questions: [email protected] - Technical Program Coordinator: Briana Harter, [email protected], (608) 893-0709 Program Intent: The EC-SDC Grant Program aims to provide financial assistance to Other-Than-Municipal (OTM) and non-profit Non-Transient Non-Community (NN) public water systems serving small or disadvantaged communities in addressing emerging contaminants, specifically PFAS and manganese. Eligibility: 1. Applicants must be the owner or authorized representative of an OTM or non-profit NN public water system. 2. The public water system must serve a community with a population less than 10,000. 3. The public water system must have either PFAS or manganese contamination. Project Eligibility: Projects must include actions to address PFAS or manganese contamination. Eligible items include project planning and design, technical assistance, construction or treatment to address contamination (such as consolidation with another water system, new well construction and old well abandonment, and treatment installation). Application Process: 1. Review the eligibility requirements and grant announcement. 2. Develop your project plan, considering technical assistance if needed. 3. Complete all application materials once they become available on Jan. 16, 2024. 4. Submit the application materials and required documents to [email protected]. 5. The DNR will review complete applications and attachments. 6. If approved for a grant award, the DNR will notify you. 7. Reimbursement requests can be submitted quarterly for eligible expenses incurred. Deadlines: Application period opens on Jan. 16, 2024. Application period deadline: July 31, 2024. Funding: Eligible projects may receive funding up to $240,000 per public water system. $3 million is allocated for eligible PFAS projects, and $1 million for eligible manganese projects. Grant award payments are made on a reimbursement basis. Reimbursement Materials: Materials will be available once