Funding available for shoreland vegetation projects (2006-05-23)

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is making more than $300,000 available for grant proposals for restoring native shoreline vegetation across the state.

Grants recipients will be reimbursed for up to 75 percent of the total project costs. Applicants must be able to fund at least 25 percent of the total project costs from non-state sources. Matching funds may be cash, volunteer labor, and in-kind contributions of materials, equipment and services.

"This is an opportunity for homeowners, local communities and conservation organizations to help enhance native shoreline vegetation and fish habitat in their local lakes, streams and rivers," said John Hiebert, DNR shoreland habitat coordinator. Last year, 26 projects were funded for $296,000.

Applications for grants, are available on the Minnesota DNR Web site at: www.dnr.state.mn.us or by calling the DNR at (651) 296-6157 or toll free 1-888-MINNDNR (646-6367). Applications are due Sept. 18.

Successful applicants will be notified in January. Funds will be made available to successful applicants after July 1, 2007.

The grants are funded from state lottery proceeds deposited in the heritage enhancement account. Grants, administered through the DNR Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, are designed with guidance from local DNR fisheries managers.