Action grants

Small, simple grants for community projects to protect clean water
Want to install a rain barrel? Plant native flowers in your yard? Hold a community clean-up? Get up to $250 and resources to help you make your project a reality.
The catch? You can't do it alone! In order to get a grant, you have to find at least one other person to join your team. Want to buy that rain barrel? See if your neighbor wants one too. Those native plants? Invite friends over to help you plant them.
Criteria
- Who can apply: residents, students*, local businesses, groups and troops
- You need a team to apply (at least one person, but we hope more!)
- Projects must take place within the watershed district
- Projects must have a water resources component
- You are eligible for one grant per year
*If you are a minor, a project supervisor (parent or teacher) needs to fill out the application.
Awards
- Amount: up to $250
- Grants are awarded as a rebate for purchases made
- A project report and receipts must be provided for refund to be issued
How it works
Before you apply
- Come up with an idea
- Assemble your team
- Apply online
If your project is approved
- Buy your materials and do your project
- Keep your receipts and take lots of photos
- Have fun!
After your project
- Submit the project reimbursement form online
- Send in copies of all your receipts
- A reimbursement check will come in the mail
Submit your report before the 15th of each month to receive your reimbursement the 1st week of the following month.
Deadline
There is no deadline. Apply at any time. Applications accepted while funds last.
(2022 Action Grant budget = $5000)
Questions?
Contact Eleanor:
emahon@rpbcwd.org
Project ideas
Below are a few project ideas to kick-start your creativity, but you're not limited to these. We're excited to see what you come up with!
Host a clean-up
Get your friends or neighbors together to clean up trash at a local lake, creek, or wetland. Use grant money to promote your event, and purchase gloves, trashbags, and snacks for your volunteers.
Plant native flowers
Native plants provide habitat, help more rain soak into the ground, and require less watering. Have some friends over to help you plant a native garden. Use funds for the plants, mulch, and maybe some lemonade!
Install a rain barrel
Collect rainwater off of your roof to water your lawn, or native plants. Invite a neighbor to get one with you!