Local governments can apply for multipurpose drainage management grants following the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) approving up to $1.8 million for these efforts at its September meeting. Up to $900,000 is available in Fiscal Year (FY) 2026, plus an additional $900,000 available in FY 2027.
Eligible applicants include counties, watershed districts, watershed management organizations, soil and water conservation districts and local government joint powers boards. Applicants must be working under a state-approved and locally-adopted local water management plan, comprehensive watershed management plan or soil and water conservation district comprehensive plan.
“These grants support management practices that reduce erosion and sedimentation, reduce peak flows and flooding and improve water quality, while also protecting drainage system efficiency and reducing the need for drainage system maintenance,” BWSR Executive Director John Jaschke said.
Applications will be accepted starting October 6. Local governments can apply for grants continually while funding remains available. Batching period dates and available funding amounts can be found on the MDM Program page. Local governments can learn more and apply for grants on BWSR’s website.
“The use of quarterly batching periods the last year was largely successful at allowing a more flexible grant program to align with our partners workflow and timelines. We are excited to continue with that model,” Jaschke said.
Funding is provided by the Minnesota Clean Water Fund.
About the Minnesota Clean Water Fund: Minnesota voters approved the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment in 2008 to protect, enhance, and restore wetlands, prairies, forests, and fish, game, and wildlife habitat; to preserve arts and cultural heritage; to support parks and trails; and to protect, enhance, and restore lakes, rivers, streams, and groundwater. The Clean Water Fund receives 33 percent of the sales tax revenue generated by the Legacy Amendment. More information about the Clean Water Fund is available here.