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Riparian Grant Program (RGP)
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Program level:
State
Provider:
Washington State Conservation Commission
Benefits provided:
Financial
Land use:
Agriculture, Forest
Water-focused program:
Yes
Funding for voluntary projects to restore and protect riparian habitat.
Overview
Description:
The State Conservation Commission (SCC) is committed to supporting private landowners’ voluntary stewardship of natural resources. In 2023, the WA State Legislature approved funding for SCC to run a voluntary riparian grant program for priority riparian restoration and protection. This opportunity provides funding for projects to restore and protect riparian habitat. Riparian habitat restoration and protection projects are crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems and preserving biodiversity.
In the 2023 legislative session, revenues collected as a result of the Climate Commitment Act were appropriated to SCC. The funds came with proviso language specifying how the funds were to be used, encouraging incentive programs focusing on landowner projects to restore and maintain riparian management areas.
Riparian Grant Program funds may be used for the following eligible project types:
- Riparian restoration program outreach
- Technical assistance/planning/design/monitoring
- Landowner implemented cost share
- District Implemented Projects
- Maintenance
All stream types regardless of the presence of salmonids are eligible for riparian restoration and protection projects under this program.
This includes all management areas adjacent to freshwaters, wetlands, and marine waters that have been locally or regionally identified as an area where salmon recovery efforts would significantly benefit from enhanced protection or restoration.
Applications are not currently being accepted for tiered incentive or permanent protection projects under the Riparian Grant Program while SCC evaluates the program in preparation for updated guidelines in spring 2025. Please check back as this program is revised in preparation for the 25-27 biennium for updates and opportunities to provide input and feedback.
Eligibility:
Conservation districts are the only eligible entities for this program. All other organizations, agencies, and entities are encouraged to work with their local conservation district to identify, support, and partner on riparian project implementation. (A private landowner must work with their local conservation district to apply. Find your local conservation district using the "local service" button below.)
All land ownerships are eligible under this program including private, tribal, federal, state, non-profit organization, or local government ownerships.
Financial benefit:
Funding benefits vary per project.
Contact information
Information last updated on July 15, 2025.
Planning Importance
Developing a forest, agricultural, or conservation plan helps identify and prioritize objectives for landowners. These objectives can determine what type programs to search for. Supporting organizations in your area often provide free consultation and planning.
Landscape Characteristics
See how your land fits into the broader context of regional conservation, ecosystem services, and working lands' values across the landscape through our interactive mapper tool. It could help you determine which program is a good fit for you!
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