LRCD works with landowners to find external funding sources to help cut landowner costs of local conservation projects that provide public benefits. Historically, there have been funding opportunities available by various state or national programs. Funding opportunities within the state include the WY Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust Fund or the WY Water Development Commission’s Small Water Project program. Often, these funding programs require the conservation district to apply on behalf of the project. The District is then directly responsible for complying with all the program and funding requirements including submitting designs, reports, and the final distribution of the funds.

Nationally, several non-profit conservation organizations often have grants available for various causes. LRCD works with groups like Trout Unlimited, US Fish and Wildlife Service, The Conservation Fund, Mule Deer Foundation, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation to fundraise and sponsor conservation projects that accomplish multiple wildlife or natural resource management goals. LRCD will submit applications, as the sponsor, for various national programs and grants, as appropriate, and help facilitate project implementation and disbursement of funds.

Projects that are larger in scope and size are typically eligible for multiple funding partnerships. Past projects that involved one or more of the partners and programs listed above include:

-          Streambank restoration and stabilization for improved water quality, erosion control, and wildlife habitat

-          Well construction or enlargement for quantity and quality

-          Solar platforms

-          Pipelines and conveyance facilities

-          Wetland development for ground water recharge

-          Irrigation diversion structure rehabilitation

-          Small reservoir work

• Deadline to apply: March 1 and September 1, annually
• Projects are funded twice annually, with funds being available for approved projects in July and January.
• All applications are considered and reviewed by WWNRT staff and the Board
• Amount varies.

Find more info here: https://wwnrt.wyo.gov/how-to-apply/how-to-apply

• Deadline for applications is November 15th of each year
• Applications reviewed and approved/denied in March of each year
• 3 years to complete the project
• There are engineering and permitting requirements prior to construction
• Will reimburse 50% of eligible costs, up to $35,000, upon project completion, documentation, receipts, and inspection

Find past SWP across the state here: https://wwdc.state.wy.us/small_water_projects/storymap/index.html