The H2Ohio Conservation Ditch Program, established in 2022, provides funding to local Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) and county engineers for the construction of conservation ditches in agricultural watersheds in the Western Lake Erie Basin (WLEB).
H2Ohio Conservation Ditch Program
H2Ohio Conservation Ditch Program
Grant Information
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Type:
Loan
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Eligible Applicants:
Other, State Governments
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Project Drivers:
Conservation & Restoration
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Additional Goals:
Water Quality Improvement
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States:
Ohio
Max. Grant Award: $11.7 Million for 28 ditch projects.
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Grant Priorities
Participation by youth or individuals unfamiliar with wildlife related recreation is emphasized. Projects focusing on public access to property or facilities, education and informing youth in safe participation in wildlife related activities, developing long term mentorship programs in fishing, hunting and shooting sports education are encouraged. ALL SWCDs All Ohio County Engineers and Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) are eligible to apply for funding to construct two-stage and self-forming ditches.
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Local Plan Requirements
Eligible applicants include Ohio Soil/Water Conservation Districts/Joint Board, County Activities and events must have an educational value and have a goal of increasing participant knowledge, skills, and attitudes associated with hunting and/or angling. Activities involving competition are not eligible.
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Matching Requirements
Reimbursement grant –up to 100 percent project funding for conservation ditch construction in any county in Ohio.
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Eligible Costs
Staff time, Earthwork, Structures, Seeding. H2Ohio grant funds can only be used for the conservation ditch sections.
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Project Timeline
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Application Deadline
Typically the application deadline falls in June 1, 2026. Funding is limited, and projects will be evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Submit an Application https://ohioepa.custhelp.com/app/apply.
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Contact Information
Justin McBride
[email protected].
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