By Blake Jackson
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is now accepting applications for its 2026 Producer-Led Watershed Protection Grants.
The deadline to apply is September 12, 2025. These grants support farmer-led conservation efforts aimed at improving local watershed health.
The program’s total funding for 2026 is $1 million, with eligible producer-led groups able to receive up to $40,000 each. These funds help producers develop and promote conservation strategies tailored to their specific watershed needs, taking into account factors such as soil types, land topography, and agricultural operations unique to each region.
“Wisconsin farmers are stewards of the land, and land and water conservation programs are a priority in Governor Evers’ 2025-2027 Executive Budget,” said DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski. “Thanks to funding proposed by Governor Evers and approved by the legislature, producers and their many partners across Wisconsin will be able to continue working together to implement and promote practices that support soil and water health.”
To qualify, groups must consist of at least five farmers operating within the same or neighboring watershed. Each farm must have generated a minimum of $6,000 in gross revenue in the past year or $18,000 over the last three years.
Groups must also partner with a county land conservation department, UW-Extension, or a nonprofit conservation organization. Both new and existing groups are eligible to apply.
Applications and further details can be found at Producer-Led Projects - DATCP. Submissions must be sent via email in Microsoft Word format.
For assistance, applicants can contact Dani Heisler, Producer-Led Watershed Program Manager, at dani.heisler@wisconsin.gov or (608) 640-7270.
Launched in 2015, this innovative program is the first of its kind in the nation. Since its inception, DATCP has awarded over $7.2 million to 53 producer-led groups. In 2024 alone, conservation efforts supported through the program impacted 1.7 million acres statewide.
Photo Credit: pexels-ron-lach
Categories: Wisconsin, Rural Lifestyle