DO YOU NEED HELP APPLYING FOR A RENEWABLE RESOURCE PLANNING GRANT? 

DNRC is offering local governments Technical Assistance to apply for planning grants. Technical Assistance funds are designed to assist local governments that: 

1.  Do not have an established relationship with a professional engineering firm. OR 
2. Have not been successful in applying for DNRC planning grants in the prior biennium. 

DNRC will prioritize requests for Technical Assistance from local governments who meet the above criteria. 

If Technical Assistance is approved, DNRC will assign a contracted technical service provider to assist the local government with a Renewable Resource Planning Grant Application. 

Technical Assistance is limited to $3,000 or 20 hours @ $150/hour. Technical service providers are contracted with and paid by DNRC once a Renewable Resource Planning Grant Application is submitted. 

If you have questions, please contact Katherine Certalic kcertalic@mt.gov .

PURPOSE

The purpose of the RRGL Planning Grant Program is to provide funding to governmental entities for professional and technical services necessary to produce a high quality RRGL grant application which leads to a project that conserves, manages, develops, or protects Montana’s renewable resources. PLANNING GRANT GUIDELINES.

GRANT LIMITS

Infrastructure PER $40,000

Irrigation PER/ Technical Narrative $30,000

PER or Technical Narrative Update $20,000

Resource Services (Plans or Studies) $15,000

Watershed Restoration Plan $40,000

Watershed Restoration Project Plan $30,000

 FUNDING CYCLES

House Bill 6 includes $3,500,000 for Planning Grants. Application funding is available as revenue is received.

• Accepting Applications: September 25, 2024 – December 31, 2024
• Review and award – November 2024
• Review and award – January 2025

DNRC may choose to extend the application deadline into 2025.

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

DNRC will be offering local governments assistance to apply for planning grants. These funds are designed to assist local governments that:

1. Do not have an established relationship with a professional engineering firm. OR
2. Have not been successful in applying for DNRC planning grants in the prior biennium.

DNRC will evaluate requests from local governments for technical assistance based on demonstrated need. If approved, DNRC will assign a contracted technical service provider to assist the local government with a planning grant application. Technical assistance is limited to $3,000 or 20 hours. Technical service providers will be contracted directly with DNRC and assigned at random as local government requests are approved.

• Technical Assistance Opportunity

PROGRAM CONTACT

Katherine Certalic

Phone: 406-444-3146

Email: KCertalic@mt.gov
 

DNRC RRGL Emergency Grant 

Thank you for your interest in the RRGL Emergency Grant program. The legislature has appropriated $300,000 to the Renewable Resource Grant and Loan (RRGL) Program to provide emergency funding for projects that, due to their emergency nature, cannot wait for legislative approval. Grants are available for emergency projects that pose an immediate threat to the beneficial management of a renewable resource and, if delayed, will cause substantial damage or legal liability. All reasonable funding sources must be investigated before an emergency grant will be awarded. Emergency grants are limited to $30,000 per project. Grant assistance is limited to only serious emergencies that meet program requirements. 

Please review the Program Guidelines Here: RRGL-Program-Guidelines-2025-Biennium 

Grantees must enter into a contract with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) before funds can be reimbursed. Reimbursement requests must include copies of applicable invoices, proof of payment, and the DNRC Vendor Invoice. Project close-out documents include a Certificate of Compliance.
 

For the most up to date grant guidelines, please visit the CD Resource Documents Site.
 

To inquiry about ideas, and/or project feasibility, contact the CD Specialist for your District who will work with you to develop the proposal including a detailed scope, schedule, and budget.
 

https://dnrc.mt.gov/Conservation/Conservation-Programs/Conservation-Districts/
 

Stephanie Criswell, Steph.Criswell@mt.gov, 406-444-6669
Mary Hendrix,  Mary.Hendrix@mt.gov, 406-431-2639
Veronica Grigaltchik, Veronica.Grigaltchik@mt.gov, 406-437-4501
Catey Bauer, catey.bauer@mt.gov, 406-465-0948

Kasydi Lucas, kasydi.lucas2@mt.gov, 406-594-0726

Aquatic Invasive Species Grants
IMPORTANT DATES: Grant Applications Due Sunday, January 5, 2025
For additional information about the AIS Grant Program and to access the AIS Grant Program guidelines, visit misc.mt.gov.

GENERAL INFORMATION:
  The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) administers the Aquatic Invasive Species Grant Program in coordination with the Montana Invasive Species Council (MISC). DNRC provides fiscal management of the grant program and approves funding decisions. MISC manages the application process, reviews, and provides recommendations to the DNRC Director. Funding in the amount of $278,000/year for fiscal year FY24 and FY25 was appropriated by the legislature for this program. DNRC may incur up to 10% of the yearly appropriation for administration of the program.

WHO WE FUND: AIS grants are available to Montana communities or local, state, tribal, or other entities within the state and to Montana-based non-governmental entities.
WHAT WE FUND: AIS grants are intended to increase local capacity and involvement to address AIS issues. Projects that address the following AIS management components are eligible and include:

• Prevention
• Early detection
• Education and outreach
• Research
• Treatment

Current state-wide priorities that have been identified and vetted with former grantees and stakeholders for the upcoming AIS grant cycle include grants related to:
 

• Monitoring / early detection projects to expand local capacity and involvement in multi- AIS taxa early detection efforts.
• AIS outreach projects that expand AIS awareness at the local level.
• AIS research projects.

Locally-led proposals that address the state-wide priorities will receive ranking preference, however all eligible grant requests will be evaluated and considered.
  The state AIS program includes the Clean, Drain, Dry campaign and associated materials and products. Education and outreach projects must be coordinated with the state campaign for consistency, accuracy, and brand recognition to ensure maximum effectiveness. FWP will provide outreach materials for distribution and customization. For more information about AIS education and outreach, call Tom Woolf at 406-444-1230.
  Preference will be given to: AIS species on the Montana Noxious Weed List and AIS under the authority of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) (see Appendix A); and to locally-led on-the-ground projects such as surveys and removal that result in measurable control of AIS.
  The project must align with state AIS priorities, must show local support, and must be coordinated with related AIS efforts in the area and comprehensive invasive species plans. Priority will be given to local partnerships that demonstrate the administrative, financial, and management capacity to implement the project. The project must commit to using statewide AIS protocols and reporting.
  While match funding is not required, it will be considered in the grant review and ranking process.
 

For the complete AIS Grant Program Guidelines, including the application process and ranking criteria, visit: misc.mt.gov.
FUNDING LIMITS: Grants may be awarded for up to $50,000 for most projects depending on available funding, the intended activities, and based on a budget that is supported by a clear scope of work.
For Additional Information Contact:
  Montana DNRC
  Conservation and Resource Development Bureau
  P.O. Box 201601
  Helena, Montana 59620-1601
 

Liz Lodman
  406-444-0547
  liz.lodman@mt.gov

Notice of Funding Available and Request for Proposals

Proposals Due By: The application is open and rolling until funding is awarded.

• First review period closes for applications : April 1, 2024.
• Additional review periods: ongoing until March 31, 2025 or sooner if all funds are awarded.

Purpose

DNRC’s fundamental intent in areas of State/County Cooperative Fire Protection (County Coop) is to build and maintain the capacity of local governments so that local firefighters routinely succeed on the initial attack of wildland fires and avoid the need for large-scale involvement by the DNRC or our federal partners. The County Coop Fire Protection arrangement builds upon the fire suppression capacity of communities and local government and has been a highly effective fire protection model in Montana for the past 50+ years. This success can be attributed to the strong partnerships and cooperation that exist across the state.

To better support this fire protection arrangement in an ever-changing wildfire environment, DNRC has made funding available aimed at cooperatively increasing local fire leadership, preparedness, and fire response capabilities. Through this opportunity, DNRC seeks to fund and leverage staff capacity or projects in support of local fire response coordination needs while also supporting DNRC County Coop fire protection related functions. 

Desired Outcomes

• Actions and investments that further the capacity of rural fire protection entities at the local level, while also supporting the fundamental intent of the DNRC County Coop program.
• Well-coordinated, safe, and effective local wildland fire response.
• Increased wildfire preparedness efforts and improved coordination between local, state, and federal fire response organizations.

Source of Funding

Funding sources for this grant are from appropriations in the State of Montana made available through the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Forestry and Trust Lands Division. State General Fund (HB2) is expected as an on-going funding source. There has also been a one-time increase from the Fire Suppression Fund through HB 883 for this cycle of grant opportunity. Grant funds will be distributed on a reimbursement basis.

Eligible Applicants

Montana counties with a current Cooperative Fire Protection Agreement with the State of Montana as outlined in MCA 7-33-2202 (4b) are eligible to apply.

Allowable Activities

This grant opportunity is intended to further the capacity of rural fire protection entities at the local level, while also supporting the fundamental intent of the DNRC State/County Cooperative Fire Protection program. The following are items are examples of potentially eligible projects. DNRC encourages innovative approaches to furthering local fire leadership, preparedness, and fire response capabilities.
 

Note: These funds are intended to supplement activities or fulfill unmet needs--they cannot be used to replace previously allocated funding.

Examples of eligible high priority activities include:

• Funding County Fire Warden, Deputy County Fire Warden, or Rural Fire Coordinator positions that are currently unfunded, part-time, ad hoc, or volunteer.
• Reimbursement/stipends for other unfunded or volunteer fire leadership positions such as County Rural Fire Chiefs, Fire Chiefs or Duty Chiefs/Duty Officers during periods of heightened fire activity.
• Reimbursement/stipends for County Rural Fire Department or Rural Fire District Personnel for fire response.
• Other projects that further the capacity and capabilities of local fire response entities.

Another example of eligible, are more of a one time funding that would be more focused towards the following activities include:

• IT Infrastructure that better supports well-coordinated, safe, and effective local wildland fire response (Dispatch, CAD, GIS, Mutual Aid Communications).
• Wildland fire leadership and incident command training.
• Other items that directly support high priority activities listed above with a reasonable justification.

If funding staff/personnel time or positions, Grantee will administer payment and/or payroll responsibilities for those individuals. The Grantee is also responsible for making sure that it and its employees are covered by Workers’ Compensation Insurance and in compliance with the coverage provisions of the Workers’ Compensation Act.

Restrictions

This grant funding is subject to the following restrictions:

• Grant funding must result in a net increase in fire response capacity. It cannot be used to repurpose or replace funding of positions that are already funded.
• Funds are not intended for fire suppression equipment or personal protective equipment. Other grant funding sources exist for these types of items.
• Projects not directly related to furthering local fire leadership, preparedness, and fire response capabilities are ineligible.

Grant Amount

Grants awarded will typically range from $10,000 to a maximum of $100,000. DNRC may consider proposals exceeding the $100,000 limit on an exceptional basis. Award amounts may vary due to funding availability and the number and quality of applications received. Multi-year applications will be considered with a 3-year maximum.

Match Requirement

This grant does not require match. However, cash and/or in-kind contributions are encouraged to support the cooperative intent of this opportunity. 

How To Apply

Scroll down and select "login" (if you already have a Submittable account) or "create a new account" to start filling out the application. Submit your application by 5 p.m. on April 1, 2024 for consideration in the first review period. 

• You can use this worksheet to start brainstorming your ideas. You can then copy and paste your answers into the Submittable application.

Letters of support for the funding request from participating fire departments, rural fire councils, and other organizations are not required but will strengthen an application.

After the initial round of proposals are reviewed, if funding remains, additional proposals will be reviewed up until the final submission deadline of March 31, 2025. The panel may choose to immediately award funding to a proposal, may reject a proposal for funding or may choose to place a proposal in a pending approval status. Pending approval proposals may or may not be subsequently awarded funds and may be passed-over for funding in favor of a later submission that the panel deems to have more merit. The opportunity will remain open and will be accepting applications on a rolling basis until March 31, 2025 or earlier if all funding is awarded.

Award and Disbursement 

Applications received will be reviewed for funding by DNRC Fire Protection staff. Applications will be evaluated on how well they meet the goals of the grant program. If funding remains after first-round selections, or if additional funding becomes available, DNRC may consider funding additional applications at that time.

Upon selection of funding, DNRC will proceed with developing grant award documents with identified points of contact. Applicants selected in the first review period must be capable of returning a signed grant agreement to DNRC by June 20, 2024.  Funded activities may start July 1, 2024.

Funds may only be used as described in the executed grant agreement unless otherwise agreed to in writing by the DNRC. Disbursement of grant funds by DNRC will be upon approval of submitted documentation of reimbursable costs. Documentation may include itemized receipts, invoices, financial reports, and other documents that clearly show expenditures.

Reporting Requirements

Grantees will be required to report to DNRC on a quarterly basis to describe project accomplishments and how funds are being utilized. A final report will be required stating how the funds were used and the outcomes that were achieved.

Helpful Links

• CFP Worksheet (you can copy and paste your answers from the worksheet to Submittable).
• Authorizing Statement (this will need to be signed by a County Commissioner).
• How to add collaborators.

Questions? 

David Hamilton

State/County Cooperative Fire Program Manager

DNRC Fire Protection Bureau

406-431-1948

dahamilton@mt.gov 

 

Tree Planting Grants (formerly Arbor Day Grants) are for the purchase and planting of one or more trees in the celebration of Arbor Day.  

All communities are eligible for a $350 grant.
Tree City USA communities are eligible for a $850 grant.
 

Grant application opens 12:00 P.M. on 12/18/24
Closes at 5:00 P.M. on 2/14/25

These are "tree-centric" grants, meaning trees are the only plant materials eligible for purchase. These grants are awarded on a first come basis to approved projects with a complete application until funds are depleted. Matching funds are encouraged but not required. 

One application per community will be accepted.

This opportunity is funded by the State of Montana - Natural Resources Operations Fund.

Eligible Organizations:
 

• City or Township Governments.
• County Governments.
• Native American Tribal Governments.
• Public and State-controlled institutions of higher knowledge.
• Non-profit organization representing a community.
   

Funding for the Urban and Community Forestry Grants is derived from a federal award from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) from the United States Forest Service, Department of Agriculture (USDA) to the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Forestry Division. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Funding Overview

IRA Funds - $300,000 available (no match requirement) for projects that take place entirely within a disadvantaged area as defined by the Montana Urban and Community Forestry Grant Tool. This tool identifies areas that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution in national datasets. No match is required for these funds, but additional tracking and reporting requirements may be required.

The projects are meant to be large-scale and have long-term community impact. Minimum request is $10,000; Maximum request is $50,000 including indirect costs. Grant funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis.

Eligible entities include Montana cities, towns, counties, community-based organizations, public and state institutions of higher education, nonprofits, and tribal governments interested in conducting innovative projects in urban forestry. 

When developing a proposal, contact with the area DNRC Forestry staff is important. They will help you through the project design and planning process.

Find your local Forester HERE.

Application Deadline: Friday, January 3, 2025, 5pm.

Approximate Notification Date: February 2025 

Grantees will be given 24 months to complete the project from the date the agreement is activated. Grantees should plan to begin funded activities in May 2025. Funded activities cannot begin until the grant agreement is signed.

 _________________________________________________

Program Purpose

UCF Grants support goals identified by the Forest Service and DNRC for 2025.

Federal and State Program Goals

Your proposal should tie to the Federal and State goals, by creating relevant objectives, and public awareness specific to your community. The use of these funds should align with the following plans and initiatives:

• National 10-year Urban Forestry Action Plan Goals 1-7: Planning; Human Health; Diversity, Equity, and Leadership; Environmental Health; Management; Funding; and Education and Awareness.
• Montana’s State Forest Action Plan Recommendations: Diversity, health, and resilience for urban forests; Urban tree canopy cover for ecosystem benefits; Mitigate impacts of Emerald Ash Borer; Restoration with plant nurseries; Human and community health; Working forests and economies; Climate change.
• Montana Climate Solutions Plan Recommendations: Preparing Montanans for climate impacts, strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, carbon sequestration, and climate adaptation. 
• Justice40 Initiative Recommendations: Broadened community engagement in local urban forest planning, and improved resilience to climate change, pests, and storm events through best management and maintenance practices.
• Inflation Reduction Act Recommendations: Increased and equitable access to urban tree canopy and associated human health, environmental, and economic benefits in disadvantaged communities.

Projects may include but are not limited to: identifying areas lacking canopy cover to plant trees strategically; supporting the use of food forests; education; trial projects for climate adaptation or a specific function i.e., pollution control, stormwater, human health, and wellness; workforce development and training; inventory and management plans; hazardous tree removal and replacement; and management and planning for trees at risk. 

 _________________________________________________

Project Budget Information

Project grant funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis. Reimbursement will not be made until expenditures have been paid and DNRC has received all required documentation. Recipients may submit multiple requests for reimbursement throughout the period of performance, as often as once per month.

The U.S. Forest Service and Inflation Reduction Act will be acknowledged as a funding source for each project funded out of this grant according to USFS guidance and any future signage requirements. The cost of signage is reimbursable and may be included in your budget.

REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES May Include:

Personnel Expenses - Cost of hiring seasonal employees or special staff to carry out the project. (Costs of regular or established personnel may not be charged to grant funds.)

Operating Expenditures - Cost of purchasing appropriate supplies and materials to complete the project. Examples: trees, planting supplies, some types of irrigation, equipment rental, media (public service announcements), printing, or educational elements related to urban forestry (workshops, speaker costs, educational publications, facility fees).

Contracted Professional Services - Costs related to hiring a consultant or contractor (arboriculture, forestry, landscape design, or planning) or other professional for the project.

Indirect Costs - An organization’s Indirect Rate for administration and expenses not directly allocable to the grant – such as electricity and insurance. 

NON-REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES:

Capital assets - Purchases of large equipment (value of $5,000+) and some types of hardscaping.

Other examples include food (exceptions may apply), entertainment, gifts, promotional items, and alcohol. For more guidance please review the DNRC Subaward Manual, p.7.

 _________________________________________________

Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed and scored by a selection committee. Applicants will be notified of their award status in February 2025.

Proposal scoring is based on how each project meets the Federal and State program goals, sustainability, and community impact. Pictures, maps, and other relevant materials are encouraged to better illustrate your project.

For additional information contact:

Alexis Armstrong, Forestry Assistance Program Support Technician. 

Montana DNRC, 2705 Spurgin Road Missoula, Montana 59804-3199. 

Telephone: 406-542-4207. 

Email: alexis.armstrong@mt.gov.

To aid in your application preparation, DNRC has developed a WORKSHEET of the questions for you to preview. You can use this Microsoft Word file to develop your responses. When ready to submit your application, copy and paste the answers into the Submittable form.

Funding for the Urban and Community Forestry Program Development Grants is derived from a federal award from the United States Forest Service, Department of Agriculture (USDA) to the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Forestry Division. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Funding Overview

Urban and Community Forestry: Program Development Funds - $90,000 available (3:1 match requirement) 

The projects are meant to be large-scale and have long-term community impact. Minimum request is $5,000; Maximum request is $20,000 including indirect costs (if requesting). Grant funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis.

Eligible entities include Montana cities, towns, counties, community-based organizations, public and state institutions of higher education, nonprofits, and tribal governments interested in conducting innovative projects in urban forestry. 

When developing a proposal, contact with the area DNRC Forestry staff is important. They will help you through the project design and planning process.

Find your local Forester HERE.

Application Deadline: January 3, 2025

Approximate Notification Date: February 2025

Grantees will have 12 months to complete the project from the date the agreement is activated. Grantees should plan to begin funded activities in May 2025. Funded activities cannot begin until the grant agreement is signed.

 _________________________________________________

Program Purpose

UCF Grants support goals identified by the Forest Service and DNRC for 2025, by creating relevant objectives, and public awareness specific to your community. Program Development grants aim to enhance and improve a community’s urban forestry program. Small and large population communities may have different needs, and the Montana UCF program considers this to provide the best possible assistance. Program Development grants support goals identified by the Forest Service and DNRC, which include:

• Implementing recommendations from Montana’s State Forest Action Plan (page 69-70)
• Encouraging resilient urban landscapes that are adaptive to climate change
• Advancing inventory and assessment information
• Increasing public education about urban forest health and wellness benefits
• Strengthening partnerships with underserved groups

2025 Area of Focus: Creating/Updating Management Plans on the overall extent, health, and function of the urban forest. Projects should aim to compile data on the overall extent, health, and function of urban forests, providing valuable insights necessary for successful urban forestry management. Urban forest health is vital for maintaining ecological balance and enhancing the quality of life in communities. Healthy urban forests provide numerous benefits, including improved air quality, reduced urban heat islands, and enhanced biodiversity. They serve as crucial green spaces that mitigate the impacts of urbanization, such as stormwater runoff and air pollution. Additionally, thriving urban forests offer recreational opportunities, promote well-being, and foster community engagement. Ensuring the health of these forests requires ongoing maintenance, sustainable practices, and public awareness, ultimately contributing to resilient urban ecosystems that benefit both people and wildlife.

Projects may include but are not limited to: inventory and management plans; hazardous tree removal and replacement; and management and planning for trees at risk from invasive species; identifying areas lacking canopy cover to strategically plant trees; supporting the use of food forests; education; trial projects for climate adaptation or a specific function i.e., pollution control, stormwater, human health, and wellness; and workforce development and training.

_________________________________________________

Project Budget Information

Grant funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis. Reimbursement will not be made until expenditures have been paid and all required documentation has been received by DNRC. Recipients may submit multiple requests for reimbursement throughout the period of performance, as often as once per month.

The U.S. Forest Service will be acknowledged as a funding source for each project funded out of this grant according to USFS guidance and any future signage requirements. The cost of signage is reimbursable and may be included in your budget.

REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES May Include:

Personnel Expenses - Cost of hiring seasonal employees or special staff to carry out the project. (Costs for regular or established personnel may not be charged to grant funds but may count as match.)

Operating Expenditures - Cost of purchasing appropriate supplies and materials to complete the project. Examples: trees, planting supplies, some types of irrigation, equipment rental, media (public service announcements), printing, or educational elements related to urban forestry (workshops, speaker costs, educational publications, facility fees).

Contracted Professional Services - Costs related to hiring a consultant or contractor (arboriculture, forestry, landscape design, or planning) or other professional for the project.

Indirect Costs - An organization’s Indirect Rate for administration and expenses not directly allocable to the grant – such as electricity, insurance, and accounting services. 

NON-REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES:

Capital assets - Purchases of large equipment (value of $5,000+) and some types of hardscaping.

Other examples include food (exceptions may apply), entertainment, gifts, promotional items, and alcohol. For more guidance, please review the DNRC Subaward Manual, p.7.

ALLOWABLE MATCH Expenses May Include:

Match may be in the form of cash expenditures or in-kind contributions; no match may come from Federal or DNRC sources. State funds from other agencies are allowable.

Cash contributions

Cash contributions are direct out-of-pocket expenditures for eligible project activities that are documented by paid invoices, canceled checks, signed receipts, or payroll records.

In-Kind Contributions 

Include third-party donations of supplies or equipment, and value of time by volunteers on eligible project activities. Assistance provided by Federal employees and/or DNRC employees may not be claimed as part of the project match.

In-Kind Contribution Guidelines

Volunteers - (must include a list of volunteers, date, type of work done, hours worked, and rate.) Log their efforts by listing the activity date, time spent/hours, number of individuals, and description of their activity.  

Donated professional services – use market rates for services provided.

Donations of materials – use current retail rates.

For more information about reimbursable and non-reimbursable expenses, and suitable forms of match, please refer to the DNRC Subaward Manual.

_________________________________________________

Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed and scored by a selection committee. Applicants will be notified of their award status in February 2025.

Proposal scoring is based on how each project meets the Federal and State program goals, sustainability, and community impact. Pictures, maps, and other relevant materials are encouraged to better illustrate your project.

For additional information contact:

Alexis Armstrong, Forestry Assistance Program Support Technician. 

Montana DNRC, 2705 Spurgin Road Missoula, Montana 59804-3199. 

Telephone: 406-542-4207. 

Email: alexis.armstrong@mt.gov.

To aid in your application preparation, DNRC has developed a WORKSHEET of the questions for you to preview. You can use this Microsoft Word file as a place to develop your responses. When ready to submit your application, copy and paste the answers into the Submittable form.

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law - Volunteer Fire Assistance

Grant Opportunity opens on December 1, 2024

Closes on January 24, 2025

VFA GRANT PURPOSE 

Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) funding supported by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), will provide financial, technical, and related assistance to rural volunteer fire departments to conduct preparedness and mobilization activities, including training, equipping, and otherwise enabling response to requests for the prevention, control and suppression of fires occurring on rural lands and threatening rural communities. This federal funding is passed through and administered by the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS 

A rural fire department is defined as - an organized, not-for-profit, fire protection organization that provides service primarily to a community or city with a population of 10,000 or less in a rural area, as defined by the Secretary of Agriculture, whose firefighting personnel is 80 percent or more volunteer and is recognized as a fire department by the laws of the State. 16 U.S.C. 2106. 

GRANT MATCH REQUIREMENTS

• Match for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law-Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant requires a 50/50 cost share match. · Financial assistance on any project requires a non-federal match for project expenditures. 

REQUIREMENTS

• National Fire Incident Reporting (NFIRS) compliant by reporting ALL fire occurrences to NFIRS as required by Montana Law (ARM 23.12.402). 
• National Incident Management System (NIMS) compliant.
• At the time of application for a VFA grant, the applicant must be registered in Systems for Award Management (SAM) and hold an active Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). 
• Taxpayer/Federal Identification Number (TIN).
• Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility and Voluntary Exclusion - Lower Tier Covered Transactions, Form AD-1048.
• Recipients are required to be registered with the federal government System for Award Management (SAM) at https://sam.gov/content/home prior to receiving an award. You will need a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).
• Financial assistance on any project requires a non-federal match for project expenditures. The funding must be matched on a 50 percent basis (50% VFA-50% match).

APPROVED PROJECTS

• Wildland Training for Department Personnel
• Wildland Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Wildland Equipment and Water Handling
• Radio Communications (P25 Compliant)
• Fire Department Organization and Planning. 
• Formation of a NEW rural or volunteer fire district

UNAPPROVED PROJECTS

• Any single item costing $5,000 or more will not be eligible for grant funding consideration.
• Construction or improvement of fire stations for housing equipment, normal operational expenses and maintenance do not qualify for VFA funds.
• Structural PPE and equipment.
• Boots.
• Medical Supplies and Equipment.

How To Apply

• The Application can be downloaded HERE.
• The Application Guide can be downloaded HERE.
• Paper copies of both the Application and the Guide can be acquired by calling (406) 542-4267.
• Upload and submit your completed application and Appendix A forms electronically using the form below.
• Or send completed applications to DNRC VFA Grant Program Manager at rheablankenship@mt.gov 
• Or returned completed applications via USPS to DNRC, Attention: Rhea Blankinship, 2705 Spurgin Road, Missoula MT 59804

All applications due by January 24, 2025.

Please read the Program Grant Application Guidelines thoroughly before applying. 

Grant Applications Due by January 10, 2025  by 5 p.m.

WMG PROGRAM PURPOSE
The Watershed Management Grant (WMG) Program goals are to provide financial support for the development and implementation of locally led watershed related planning and capacity building activities that conserve, develop, manage, or preserve state renewable resources. These goals are aligned with Montana Code Annotated (MCA) Title 85, Chapter 1, Part 6.

For more information see the Watershed Management Guidance.

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS

Eligible applicants include any division of state government, tribal government, or other county, city, or local political subdivision. These governmental entities have included:

• cities,
•  towns,
• counties,
• water and/or sewer districts,
• conservation districts,
• irrigation districts,
• school districts and universities,
• regional water authority,
• state agencies, and
•  tribal governments

INELIGIBLE APPLICANTS

As defined in MCA 85-1-102(6)(a), "Private Person" means any individual, association, partnership, corporation, or other non-governmental entity that is not eligible for loans and grants under MCA 85-1-605.

•  Individuals/Private Person
• Associations
• Partnerships
• Corporations

Sponsorship:

A government entity may sponsor a non-government entity for a Watershed Management Grant. The sponsor must submit the application and provide project oversite. Grant sponsors must have a material connection to the work being performed and are the legal party for purposes of project representation, negotiations, and communications. DNRC will require that a government entity sponsoring a grant for a non-government entity will provide an executed MOU as startup conditions.

MATCH REQUIREMENTS 

Watershed Management Grants to a local government entity do not require financial match. However, DNRC is required to evaluate project applications’ financial and technical feasibility which considers reasonable project costs and committed matching funds.

A 50% cost share is required for non-government entities, MCA 85-1-614 (b). Matching contributions may be in the form of in-kind services or cash from local, state or federal sources. However, all contributions must be targeted for expenditure on the project specifically identified in the application. Matching funds must be substantiated by accounting records and costs that would normally be considered eligible as meeting program requirements. 

Eligible in-kind contributions are those project-specific contributions associated directly with project implementation. If your budget includes in-kind labor, always reference the source for your labor value estimate. It may be helpful to use the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website to estimate labor values for Montana: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_mt.htm.

FUNDING LIMIT and PROJECT TYPES

Hosting a Big Sky Watershed Corps member $8,000

Grants will support a portion of the local host site cost share to support a Big Sky Watershed Corps member. This will be a one-time grant application and award and will require submission of a final report at the end of the BSWC term. MCC Fellows and interns are not eligible under this category, as they would eligible under the other categories for staff time in Watershed Management Grants, and costs for their salaries are ongoing throughout the life of the project or grant.
Watershed Group Formation up to $40,000 

Grant funding to establish a watershed group. A watershed group is a self-sustaining, non-regulatory, consensus-based group that is composed of a diverse array of stakeholders, which may include, but is not limited to, private property owners, non-profit organizations, federal, state, or local agencies, and tribes. Grant funds awarded in this category may fund development of bylaws, a mission statement, complete stakeholder outreach, and develop a strategic plan.

Watershed Organization Strategic Plans up to $25,000

Strategic plans focus on the mission and goals of an organization that helps groups define the organization’s priorities. Strategic planning is a process culminating in a 3-5 year planning document that addresses an organization's current state, identifies future goals, and can then be used to develop annual work plans. The Conservation District Bureau at DNRC has tools to assist CDs https://dnrc.mt.gov/Conservation/Conservation-Programs/Conservation-Districts/cd-resource-documents . The Montana Nonprofit Association provides resources for nonprofit organizations online: https://www.mtnonprofit.org/.

Watershed Strategic Program or Initiative up to $50,000

Strategic programs or initiatives are identified in an organization’s Strategic Plan. These programs or initiatives will need to be clearly tied to the organization’s mission and align with the purpose of the Watershed Management Grants. Examples may include watershed group expansion, staff support of a Watershed Restoration Plan, staff time for project management or contracted services to prepare a Watershed Restoration Project Plan, staff time for project management to oversee a non-point construction project, staff time to coordinate volunteers, purchase of materials for education and outreach.
 

Contact Information
Melissa Downing
WMG Program Manager
melissa.downing@mt.gov
406-444-0697

Please read the Program Grant Application Guidelines thoroughly before applying. 

Grant Applications Due by January 12, 2025  by 5 p.m. 

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) Irrigation Development Grant (IDG) Program supports irrigation projects that increase or sustain irrigated agriculture in Montana. Projects must address a need that will result in a benefit to irrigated agriculture.

 Irrigation is the dominant commercial use of Montana’s water and is a key component of Montana’s economy, accounting for 96% of surface and groundwater withdrawals. The IDG Program was created to increase the value of irrigated crops while preserving natural resources and the environment for future generations. 

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS

The following are considered eligible applicant types in this grant program:

• Individuals/Private Persons
• Associations
• Partnerships
• Corporations

ELIGIBLE PROJECTS

Eligible projects are those that:

• Measurably conserve, manage, develop, or preserve resources. 
• Provide public benefits. (MCA 85-1-609 (1)(g))) 
• Address development or sustainment of Montana's irrigated agriculture. 
• Initiate or increase the applicant’s water conservation or measurement efforts. 
• Are constructed, developed, and operated within the State of Montana.

Example ELIGIBLE project types in this program:

• Advancement of farming practices that reduce agricultural chemical use
• Land leveling 
• Planning 
• New development
• Repair and upgrades 
• Measurement 

INELIGIBLE PROJECTS

The following project types are ineligible in this program:

• Irrigation projects for lawns or domestic use.
• Irrigation for alfalfa or hay for personal use (MCA 90-9-102, 90-9-401).
• Projects resulting in adverse effects to renewable resources. 

ELIGIBLE EXPENSES

DNRC generally cannot reimburse expenses incurred prior to the DNRC grant award letter date.

DNRC may consider reimbursing project expenses the applicant has incurred prior to the award letter date on a case-by-case basis; however, DNRC cannot reimburse any costs incurred before July 1, 2023.

Example expenses ELIGIBLE for reimbursement in this program:

• Contracted technical or engineering services.
• Contracted construction services.
• Purchase of equipment or materials.

Eligible expenses must be approved by DNRC, tie directly to a DNRC-approved project scope, and be incurred within the grant period of performance.

INELIGIBLE EXPENSES

The following expense types are considered INELIGIBLE for reimbursement in this grant program.

• Grant administration costs
• Program costs and/or indirect costs
• Purchase of resalable or moveable equipment (e.g., pivots or pumps) 
• Political lobbying or litigation
• Land or property acquisition
• Food or beverages
• Activities that limit lawful access to property (MCA 85-1-602 (4))

GRANT FUNDING LIMIT

Irrigation Development Grants may reimburse 50% of the total project costs up to $50,000.

MATCH REQUIREMENT

A 50% cost share is required for non-government entities, MCA 85-1-614 (b). Matching contributions may be in the form of in-kind services or cash from local, state or federal sources. However, all contributions must be targeted for expenditure on the project specifically identified in the application. Matching funds must be substantiated by accounting records and costs that would normally be considered eligible as meeting program requirements. See APPENDIX A – TERMS for more information regarding Match Requirements. 

Eligible in-kind contributions are those project-specific contributions associated directly with project implementation. If your budget includes in-kind labor, always reference the source for your labor value estimate. It may be helpful to use the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website to estimate labor values for Montana: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_mt.htm. 

PROJECT ELIGIBILITY AND RANKING 

DNRC considers the following criteria for project eligibility and ranking: 

• The extent and desirability of public benefits: a) Irrigated acreage impacted by the project and b) Economic impacts of the project. 
• A water-related project that will be used as part of a family farm must be given preference. A family farm is one devoted primarily to agriculture under the ownership and operation of a resident Montana family. 
• A water-related project that will utilize or develop water reserved under 85-2-316 must be given preference. 
• Geographic balance in the promotion of renewable resource grant projects. 
• The extent to which the project will effectively utilize water resources and promote the conservation and efficient use of the water resource. 
• Projects that could not be accomplished without the assistance of a loan or grant must be given preference. 
• Financial feasibility. Committed cash match will receive a higher preference than uncommitted match or in-kind match. 
• Technical feasibility, the thoroughness and feasibility of the project’s implementation plan and schedule. 
• If a project is determined to have adverse environmental impacts that cannot be mitigated and does not preserve the state's renewable resources per 85-1-601, MCA, it is ineligible for a grant.

NOTIFICATION OF AWARD

DNRC will issue an award letter to successful applicants. The applicant will be responsible for providing documentation to DNRC to meet start-up conditions, including a procurement plan, within the timeframe identified in the award letter. Failure to meet start-up conditions within a 12-month period will result in a rescinded award.

DNRC generally cannot reimburse expenses incurred prior to the DNRC grant award letter date.

PROGRAM CONTACT

Ann L. Kulczyk

• Phone: 406-228-4129
• Email: akulczyk@mt.gov