Natural Resources Conservation Service grant applications open

FOR THE STAR-NEWS

KEWAUNEE COUNTY – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is encouraging conservation groups, government organizations and private landowners to apply for a share of the $460,000 available through a federal Natural Resources Conservation Service grant.

The DNR will use these dollars to fund two agricultural wetland mitigation projects, selected from the applicant pool, and add them to the Wisconsin Agricultural Mitigation Bank.

Funds can be used to cover most on-the-ground costs, including engineering, site construction, seeding and up to three years of maintenance activities. Funds cannot be used for easement purchases or land acquisition.

The DNR is currently accepting applications for projects. The application period will remain open until two projects are selected. Prospective applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible to ensure consideration.

The Wisconsin Agricultural Mitigation Bank will review applications every month beginning March 1.

Potential applicants are encouraged to discuss prospective projects with Nathan Dhuey, DNR Agriculture Mitigation Specialist, at Nathan.Dhuey@wisconsin.gov or 608-640-0241.

The application and additional information can be found at https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Wetlands/wamb.