The Grant County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) provides cost-share opportunities to help landowners implement conservation practices that improve soil health, reduce erosion, and protect water quality across the county.

Through partnerships with federal and state agencies, including the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA), the SWCD helps connect landowners with financial assistance programs that support conservation efforts on working lands.

A key source of local funding is the Clean Water Indiana (CWI) Program, which provides cost-share assistance for practices that address water quality concerns and soil erosion within Grant County.

Cost-share funding may be available for conservation practices such as:

• Cover crops and conservation tillage
• Filter strips and grassed waterways
• Nutrient management practices
• Pasture and livestock management improvements
• Pollinator habitat and native plantings
• Other best management practices (BMPs) that support soil and water conservation

Funding availability and program guidelines vary from year to year, and some programs require an application and approval process.

The SWCD works directly with landowners to identify resource concerns, develop conservation plans, and guide them through available funding opportunities. If you are interested in improving your land while reducing out-of-pocket costs, contact our office to learn more about current cost-share programs.

The Grant County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) helps landowners and residents apply practical conservation methods that protect soil, improve water quality, and support long-term land productivity.

Conservation practices are tailored to the specific conditions of each property and are designed to address common concerns such as erosion, nutrient runoff, and declining soil health. SWCD staff provide guidance on selecting and implementing practices that are both effective and sustainable.

Examples of conservation practices include:

• Cover Crops to improve soil structure and reduce erosion
• Grassed Waterways to safely manage water flow and prevent washouts
• Filter Strips and Buffers to protect streams and drainage areas
• Conservation Tillage to maintain soil health and reduce disturbance
• Nutrient Management to apply fertilizers efficiently and responsibly
• Pasture Management to improve grazing conditions and land use
• Pollinator Habitat to support beneficial insects and wildlife
• Windbreaks to reduce wind erosion and protect crops

By implementing the right practices, landowners can improve the health and function of their land while contributing to the overall conservation of Grant County’s natural resources.

If you’re considering improvements to your property, SWCD can help you explore options and determine the best practices for your goals.

The Grant County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) is committed to educating and engaging the community on the importance of soil and water conservation. Through a variety of programs and events, the district works to increase awareness, promote stewardship, and provide practical knowledge to landowners, students, and residents.

Education and outreach efforts are designed to address local natural resource concerns while encouraging long-term conservation practices throughout the county.

SWCD programs and activities may include:

• Workshops and Field Days focused on topics such as cover crops, soil health, and water quality
• School Programs and Youth Education to introduce conservation concepts at an early age
• Public Events and Demonstrations that showcase conservation practices in action
• Partnership Programs with local organizations and neighboring districts
• Informational Resources and Materials available to the public

By connecting people with the knowledge and tools they need, SWCD helps foster a stronger understanding of how everyday actions impact soil, water, and natural resources.

Whether you’re a landowner, educator, or community member, there are opportunities to get involved, learn more, and support conservation efforts in Grant County.