Invasive Aquatic Plant Management Grant Program

The Invasive Aquatic Plant Management (IAPM) Grant Program offered by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) supports efforts by Tribal governments and local entities—including lake associations, watershed districts, cities, and counties—to manage harmful invasive aquatic plants. The goal is to mitigate ecological and recreational harm caused by species such as curly-leaf pondweed, Eurasian watermilfoil, flowering rush, and starry stonewort, while preserving Minnesota’s natural aquatic ecosystems. The program is administered through two types of grants: small-scale and population-scale, each with distinct funding levels and evaluation processes. Small-scale grants support localized treatments of any of the four target species. Prioritization is highest for projects targeting starry stonewort, which are evaluated independently. Applications for other species are randomized for funding consideration, ensuring an equitable distribution across DNR regions. Water bodies not funded in previous years are given preference to broaden reach. Projects may involve herbicide or mechanical treatments and must be supported by pre- and post-treatment delineation surveys conducted by third parties. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $15,000 for most species, and $10,000 to $20,000 for starry stonewort projects, with a maximum of $35,000 if multiple species are treated. Population-scale grants are available exclusively for comprehensive management of Eurasian watermilfoil infestations across entire lakes. These awards are merit-based and determined through a point-based evaluation by DNR Invasive Species Program staff. Funding amounts range from $25,000 to $49,999, depending on project scope and acreage. Applicants may apply for both grant types but cannot receive funding for Eurasian watermilfoil under both categories for the same lake. To be eligible, applicants must ensure their lake is confirmed by the DNR as infested with the targeted species. A valid IAPM permit is required prior to treatment, but submission of the permit application occurs post-award as part of the work plan. Delineation, treatment, and monitoring must follow strict protocols and occur within the grant period, which ends no later than June 30, 2027. The grant program reimburses only for eligible expenses incurred after official award notification and prohibits retroactive funding. Applications must be submitted through the program’s online portal between November 10, 2025, and December 8, 2025. All questions should be directed to Angelique Dahlberg via email. Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend one of three scheduled online information sessions. The application process includes submitting assurances and ensuring accurate vendor registration via the Minnesota SWIFT Supplier Portal. Grant award notifications will occur in March 2026, with work commencing after contract execution. Based on its annual structure, the program is expected to recur, with the next cycle anticipated in November 2026.

Confirm infestation status with DNR prior to application; ensure delineation is done by an independent third party; prioritize starry stonewort projects for better funding odds.