Nonpoint Source Watershed Planning Request for Proposals Fiscal Year (FY) 2026

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) Nonpoint Source (NPS) Program assists federal, state, and local partners to restore water bodies impaired by NPS pollution and protect high-quality waters from impairments caused by NPS pollution. Funding is provided to watershed-based organizations to update existing watershed management plans or develop new plans that meet program goals and align with the United States Environmental Protection Agency's nine-element watershed plan requirements.

Eligible applicants include regional planning agencies, sub-state public planning agencies, Watershed Councils and Watershed Alliances established under Michigan law, local units of government, conservation districts, private colleges, private universities, and 501(c)(3) organizations working to improve water quality on a watershed basis. Eligible watersheds encompass all Michigan watersheds, with planning at the HUC10 size level or smaller recommended.

Eligible activities encompass all efforts necessary to develop a new watershed plan or update an existing plan to an approvable level. Projects require a minimum non-federal local match of 10 percent of the total project budget, and the minimum grant request is $25,000.

Proposals are due on November 17, 2026. Applicants must complete and submit standard RFP forms, including the Planning Cover Sheet (EQP9235) and Budget Form (EQP9291). Project awards are scheduled to be announced in Spring 2027.