BWSR offers a variety of competitive grant programs. These funds may be appropriated through the Clean Water Fund, Lessard Sams Outdoor Heritage Council, the general fund, or direct appropriations.
When funding opportunities are available through BWSR, opportunities to submit competitive requests will be listed on this page.
Funding opportunities for BWSR formula grant programs utilizing a Request for Interest (RFI) can be found here Request Formula Grant Funds
FY 2027 Managing Invasives for a Resilient Landscape Grants
The Managing Invasives for a Resilient Landscape Grants Program provides funding to support the restoration of native plant communities in areas impacted by terrestrial invasive or noxious weeds. Administered by the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR), the program provides funding to support collaborative efforts that manage terrestrial invasive plant species and reestablish resilient native vegetation. Tribal Governments, Local Government Units, Municipalities, and Townships are eligible for funding.
For questions regarding the grant program, email Erin.Loeffler@state.mn.us with “Managing Invasives for a Resilient Landscape Grant” in the subject line.
How to Apply: Applications must be submitted via eLINK, BWSR’s grants management system.
Application deadline: Applications must be submitted in eLINK no later than 4:30 pm on Thursday, June 30, 2026.
Resources:
- Request for Proposals (RFP)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Fact Sheet
- Completing a Funding Request in eLINK
Multipurpose Drainage Management
The Multipurpose Drainage Management RFP is now open, with an additional $900,000 in funding available starting in FY27. The amount available for any batching period may change based on awarded projects. Current balance for the available funding amount can be found here Multipurpose Drainage Management Program This competitive grant program funds multipurpose drainage management practices, targeting critical pollution source areas to reduce erosion and sedimentation, reduce peak flows and flooding, and improve water quality, while protecting drainage system efficiency and reducing drainage system maintenance for priority Chapter 103E drainage systems.
Applications must be submitted through eLINK, BWSR’s grants management system. Please read the RFP and program documents thoroughly to ensure eligibility, and that all application requirements are met. Applicants may contact their Board Conservationist with additional questions if they need assistance when submitting an application.
Eligible Org. Types: Counties, Joint Powers Board, Soil Water Conservation Districts and Watershed Districts
How to Apply: Funding request applications must be submitted through eLINK. Other required program information and the available funding amount can be found here Multipurpose Drainage Management Program
Application deadlines: Funding request applications in eLINK for FY27 grants will be accepted on a rolling basis. Applications must be submitted in eLINK no later than 4:30 pm on May 27, 2027, or until all funds are awarded. Submittals will be reviewed and funding decisions made at the following quarterly intervals:
- May 29, 2026
- August 31, 2026
- November 30, 2026
- February 25, 2027
- May 27, 2027
Resources:
- Multipurpose Drainage Management Program
- FY26-27 Multipurpose Drainage Management Competitive RFP
- FY26-27 Multipurpose Drainage Management Budget Worksheet
- Applicants may contact their Board Conservationist with additional questions if they need assistance when submitting an application.