Purpose

The Irrigation Development Grant (IDG) Program supports irrigation project that increase or sustain irrigated agriculture in Montana.  Project 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. Irrigation Development Grant Guidelines

GRANT LIMITS

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

FUNDING CYCLES

House Bill 6 includes $500,000 for Irrigation Development Grants for the 2025 biennium. Application funding is available as revenue received.

Cycle #1 March 2024

Cycle #2 November 2024

RANKING 

 DNRC considers the following criteria for project eligibility and ranking:  

• The extent and desirability of public benefits. 
• Irrigated acreage impacted by the project. 
• 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.

Awards

DNRC will provide an award letter to successful applicants. The applicant will be responsible for providing the necessary startup conditions including a procurement plan within the timeframe identified in the award letter. Failure to meet startup conditions within a 12-month timeframe will result in a rescinded award.

PROJECT EXPENSES INCURRED PRIOR TO THE GRANT AWARD LETTER ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR REIMBURSEMENT.

Eligible Expenses

DNRC grants reimburse eligible project costs:

Contracted technical or engineering services.

Contracted construction services.

Equipment or materials.

PROGRAM CONTACT

Ann L. Kulczyk

Phone: 406-228-4129

akulczyk@mt.gov