By Blake Jackson
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is now accepting applications for the 2027 Producer-Led Watershed Protection Grant Program.
Applications will remain open through September 15, 2026, with funding available to support farmer-led conservation projects that improve soil health, water quality, and watershed management across the state.
Backed by Governor Tony Evers’ 2025-27 Biennial Budget, the program will distribute $1 million in grant funding during 2027.
Eligible producer-led groups may receive grants of up to $40,000 to develop conservation practices tailored to the unique needs of their local watersheds, considering factors such as soil conditions, landscape, farming systems, and regional characteristics.
“Farmers in Wisconsin lead on soil and water health initiatives because they know the value of these efforts,” said Governor Evers.
“My administration has worked to provide additional funding for these programs, and I am proud that we have increased the program’s on-the-ground support for producers.”
Interest in the program continues to grow. During the past two funding cycles, a record 49 producer groups submitted applications. In 2025 alone, requested funding totaled nearly $1.65 million, reflecting strong demand for conservation assistance.
“For more than ten years, farmers across Wisconsin have been leading conservation efforts within their communities as part of the Producer-led Watershed Protection Grant Program,” said DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski.
“The work that these groups perform is admirable, and I’m pleased that it will continue with this next round of grants.”
To qualify, applicants must form a group of at least five farmers operating within the same or neighboring watershed. Each participating farm must have generated at least $6,000 in gross farm revenue during the previous year or $18,000 over the past three years.
Groups must also partner with a county land conservation department, the University of Wisconsin-Extension, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, or an eligible nonprofit conservation organization.
Both new and existing producer-led groups are encouraged to apply. Applications must be submitted electronically in Microsoft Word format by the September 15 deadline.
For more information, contact Producer-Led Watershed Program Manager Dani Heisler at dani.heisler@wisconsin.gov or (608) 640-7270.
Photo Credit: istock-dorin-s
Categories: Wisconsin, General, Government & Policy