DNR Shares Annual Report Summarizing How Runoff Management Grant Dollars Are Allocated

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced the publication of the 2022-2023 Annual Runoff Management Grant Report. The report summarizes financial assistance provided by the DNR for projects that prevent polluted runoff from entering the state’s waterways.

In 2022, DNR runoff management grants provided over $1.9 million in reimbursements for the implementation of 20 different pollution control practices and storm water planning activities in Wisconsin. Successful practices included barnyard runoff control systems, cropping practices, streambank stabilization, storm water erosion control plans and urban detention systems.

There are two different categories of runoff management grants. The Targeted Runoff Management Grant Program offers competitive grants for local governments for the control of pollution that comes from diffuse sources. These grants reimburse costs for agricultural or urban runoff management practices in specific geographic areas with surface water or groundwater quality concerns.

The Urban Nonpoint Source & Storm Water Management Grant Program offers competitive grants to local governments for the control of pollution from diffuse urban sources that are carried by storm water runoff. These grants reimburse the costs of planning or construction projects controlling urban nonpoint source and storm water runoff pollution. The Urban Nonpoint Source & Storm Water Management Planning and Construction grants are offered in alternate years.

In 2023, the DNR received 37 runoff management grant applications and was able to award 30 grants totaling $3,588,611 for projects starting in January 2024. The department may award additional grants with underspending from other projects that are completed under budget.

Grant applications for the 2025 grant award cycle are due April 15, 2024.