Improved Surface Water Grant Process Streamlines DNR Funding
For the City-Time
A new, streamlined application process including an online submission option will make it easier for communities, nonprofit organizations, academic institutions and waterfront property associations to pursue funds for a variety of water protection, management and education grants.
Since 1989, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has been funding projects to protect and restore water bodies throughout the state. DNR recently consolidated the application for the lakes, rivers and aquatic invasive species grant programs to streamline the application process. In addition, interested grant applicants are now able to electronically submit their application materials.
“DNR provides significant funding to encourage communities, nonprofits and other groups to take on projects that protect and enhance Wisconsin’s tremendous water resources,” said Shelly Thomsen, lakes and rivers team leader for DNR. “We want to make it as simple and efficient as possible for stakeholders to apply for and access this support.”
Additionally, the application deadlines have been modified to account for the busy field season. Now, lake and river associations, nonprofit organizations and government agencies can apply for planning and education grants including aquatic invasive species education projects until Dec. 10. Grant applications for projects that focus on lake and river protection and restoration as well as controlling aquatic invasive species are due Feb. 1.
These new deadlines ensure grant recipients will be notified of successful projects early enough to allow for project planning before the summer field season is in full swing.
The consolidated surface water grants program used the Lean Six Sigma process, which combines the methods of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma to streamline business operations and increase efficiency. In broad strokes, the Lean Six Sigma process identifies each step in a process and determines whether value is added or not. Combining the applications into an online form and modifying the deadline should make it easier for applicants to apply while also simplifying the review process for DNR staff.
For more information on who can apply, how to apply and how to access the new application, visit dnr.wi.gov and search for “surface water grants.”