The 2025 Biennium Watershed Management Grants (Cycle 2) are offered by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) to support watershed-related planning and capacity-building initiatives. The program funds locally led efforts that conserve, develop, manage, or preserve Montana's renewable resources, as outlined in the Montana Code Annotated Title 85, Chapter 1, Part 6. Applications are due by January 10, 2025, at 5:00 PM and must be submitted via the Submittable platform. Detailed guidelines should be reviewed before applying.

Eligible applicants include governmental entities such as state agencies, tribal governments, and various local and regional authorities like cities, counties, school districts, water districts, and conservation districts. Non-governmental entities, such as private individuals, corporations, and associations, are not directly eligible but may participate if sponsored by a government entity. Sponsoring government entities must submit the application and oversee the project, providing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) as part of the startup requirements.

The program does not mandate a financial match for local government entities, although applications are evaluated based on financial and technical feasibility, including committed matching funds. Non-government entities are required to provide a 50% cost share, which can include in-kind services or cash contributions from various sources. All contributions must directly support the specified project and be verifiable through accounting records.

Funding is available for specific project types with set limits. These include $8,000 for hosting a Big Sky Watershed Corps member, $40,000 for watershed group formation, $25,000 for watershed organization strategic plans, and up to $50,000 for strategic programs or initiatives. Examples of eligible activities include stakeholder outreach, development of strategic plans or bylaws, and staff support for implementing watershed restoration plans or educational initiatives.

To apply, applicants must provide a detailed proposal aligning with the program's objectives, clearly demonstrating the connection to watershed management goals. Applications will be reviewed for alignment with organizational missions, the feasibility of proposed activities, and adherence to the funding categories and requirements outlined in the guidance materials.

For assistance or further information, applicants may contact Melissa Downing, the WMG Program Manager, at melissa.downing@mt.gov or 406-444-0697. The application process is facilitated through Submittable, and technical support is available through the platform.