406-752-4220

Conservation Grant Program

APPLICATIONS DUE: APRIL 30, 2023

Conservation Grant Program

The Conservation Grant Program assists private landowners with conservation projects in Flathead County. All applications will be reviewed and ranked based on project merit and benefit to natural resources. Projects that employ multiple conservation practices are encouraged.

Funding and Payment

FCD may fund 75% of the allowable project cost up to a maximum of $5,000 per project. District grant funds combined with other funds cannot exceed the total actual cost of a project. Only projects initiated and completed within the contract time frame will be reimbursed. Project timelines begin July 1 and end on June 1 the following year. The landowner is responsible for the up-front project costs. All receipts must be returned to FCD within the allotted time frame. Completed projects must be inspected before the reimbursement can be issued.

Enhancing a riparian buffer
Establishing a wind break

Eligible Practices

The following are some examples of practices that would be considered for funding under this program. Other practices that are not listed may also be considered.

  • Riparian fencing
  • Riparian vegetation planting
  • Bridge/culvert replacement/upgrade
  • Wetland restoration
  • Spring development
  • Stock water tank and pipeline
  • Noxious weed control
  • Windbreak
  • Wildlife habitat improvement
  • Pollinator habitat
  • Grass and/or forb seeding
  • Reforestation
  • Forest stand improvement
  • Forest disease reduction
  • Soil health improvement

Limitations

  • Funding is restricted to one project per person or group per year.
  • Program funding is limited to on-the-ground projects; i.e., fees and costs associated to project design, permitting, or similar activities are not eligible for this program, nor are costs related to scientific or research studies.
  • Projects that involve restricted-use herbicides to control weeds must demonstrate that either the applicant has the appropriate license or a licensed applicator will be contracted.
  • Landscaping projects are not eligible for funding.

Please contact Flathead CD if you have any questions about your project’s eligibility.

Application Process:

  1. Complete the application. Incomplete applications will not be processed. Be sure to attach a detailed sketch or map.
  2. Submit completed application materials to Flathead CD (address below) or by emailing Jessie Walthers at jessie@flatheadcd.org
  3. Flathead CD staff will contact you to arrange a site visit.
  4. Projects will be reviewed and ranked based on their merit and benefit to the natural resource. Funding will be allocated in late spring.
  5. Applicants whose projects are funded must submit a W-9 form. These grants are considered taxable income. If funded, applicants will enter into a 1-year contract (July 1 to June 1 of the following year) with option for six-month extension.
Conservation Grant Program Guidelines
Download the Application

Payment Process

  1. Project must be initiated and completed within the contract time frame (July 1 – June 1).
  2. Landowner is required to pay project costs and submit all receipts and invoices upon project completion.
  3. Flathead CD will verify project completion with a site inspection before issuing payment.

Questions about the Conservation Grant Program?

Please contact the Flathead Conservation District:
406-752-4220
133 Interstate Lane, Kalispell, MT 59901

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