Wisconsin's Lake grant programs—administered by the Department of Natural Resources—have helped lake groups and local units of government fund important local lake projects. Because of these grant programs, collectively we have learned about many lakes, the challenges they face, and successful projects that have assisted lake communities in reaching their lake goals. Matching state dollars with local government, lake group, and volunteer hours has increased the capacity of lake communities to tackle lake projects.
WAL has led several initiatives to increase funding, expand eligibility, and defend existing lake grant programs. WAL is dedicated to protecting the grants that assist organizations in managing and protecting Wisconsin lakes.
Lake Planning grants are a great funding resource for local units of government and qualified lake groups interested in collection, analysis, and assessment of lake data and watershed/shoreline land uses, evaluation of local ordinances, and development of a lake management plan. Learn more… (top)
Since 1994, lake protection grants have provided funds to local governments and qualified lake groups organizations to help implement lake management plans, purchase property and conservation easements, restore wetlands and shorelands, and development of local regulations and ordinances. Learn more... (top)
Local governments and qualified lake groups are eligible for Aquatic invasive species control grants, which support local efforts in preventing and controlling aquatic invasive species. Projects involving AIS identification, containment of new AIS populations, and projects involving AIS education, prevention, or planning. Restoration of native plant species may be eligible for funding under this grant program. Learn more... (top)
Counties are eligible for these versatile grants that organize lakes into similar groups and tailor management approaches to meet the needs of lakes within each class. Grants can be used to gather a wide variety of lake data, tailor shoreland management, recreational use, AIS prevention or management, etc. Learn more... (top)
Private consulting firms, regional planning commissions, the U.S. Geological Survey, county land conservation departments, and local universities are frequently hired by lake groups to collect data and/or make management recommendations. Learn more about hiring the right consultant(s) for your lake project... (top)
The Wisconsin Association of Lakes Youth Fund Grant Program—entirely supported by additional donations by our members—assists youth groups seeking financial aid for deserving projects or activities beneficial to both Wisconsin lakes and youth. Learn more... (top)
