This program provides cost-share grants to counties, cities, watershed districts, other local units of government, conservation groups and lake associations to conduct aquatic habitat restoration projects with native plants to improve fish and wildlife habitat.
Projects on private properties will have at least 75 percent of the frontage restored with an adjacent buffer zone that is at least 25 feet deep or wide. The focus of these projects must be on re-establishing vegetation for fish and wildlife habitat. Funds cannot be used for rock riprap stabilization or permanent wave breaks.
Grants recipients will be reimbursed for a maximum of 75 percent of the total project costs. Applicants must be able to fund at least 25 percent of the total project costs from non-state sources. Matching funds may be cash; volunteer labor; and in-kind contributions of materials, equipment and services.
"This i s an opportunity for lake associations, local communities and conservation organizations to help enhance native shoreline vegetation and fish habitat in their local lakes, streams and rivers," said John Hiebert,
Applications for grants are available on the
Successful applicants will be notified in February 2014. Funds will be made available after
The grants are funded from state lottery proceeds deposited in the Heritage Enhancement Account. Grants are administered through the
