Vermont Watershed Grant Program

The Vermont Watershed Grant Program, administered jointly by the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department and the Department of Environmental Conservation, supports the protection, restoration, enhancement, and public appreciation of Vermont’s lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams. Established in 1998, the program is funded through proceeds from the Vermont Conservation License Plate and is geared toward local and regional water-related projects that improve surface water quality and contribute to long-term habitat integrity. The program particularly encourages applications from groups new to watershed protection and community engagement initiatives. Grants are awarded annually and are available to a range of eligible entities, including municipalities, nonprofit organizations, local or regional government agencies, and citizen groups. Projects must relate to watershed health and may include efforts in environmental education, biological monitoring, shoreline restoration, cultural heritage protection, and recreational enhancements. Importantly, individuals and state or federal agencies may not apply directly but can partner with eligible groups. For the 2026 project year, a total of $80,000 in grant funds will be distributed across three categories. Education and outreach projects may receive up to $6,000; planning, assessment, inventory, and monitoring efforts may be awarded up to $5,000; and on-the-ground implementation projects are eligible for grants of up to $10,000. Funded activities can include materials, labor, administrative costs, and equipment purchases, provided the expenditures support discreet and complete projects or well-defined portions of larger undertakings. Applicants must affirm understanding of insurance requirements during submission. All applications must be submitted by February 4, 2026, via email to William.Eldridge@vermont.gov. The submission must include the application form, budget table, site location maps, and relevant supporting documents such as photos or letters of support. Projects are evaluated by a Citizen Review Committee, which scores proposals based on value, design, community involvement, cost-effectiveness, and habitat restoration benefits. The Committee then makes recommendations to the Commissioner of Fish and Wildlife, who provides final approval. Selected projects are expected to begin implementation no later than August, and final reports are typically due in January of the following year, although extensions can be granted if needed. Advance payment of up to 80% of the awarded amount is available upon request. The remaining 20% is disbursed upon submission and approval of a final project report. Projects should be designed with measurable outcomes such as acres restored, water quality improvements, or community participation metrics. Priority is given to proposals that align with Vermont’s Tactical Basin Planning and other watershed protection frameworks. For more information or to request a copy of the application materials, applicants may contact Will Eldridge at 802-585-4499 or by email. Additional resources, including application forms, administrative guides, and insurance requirements, are available on the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department’s website.

Include quantitative outcomes and demonstrate partnerships for stronger proposals.