Secretary Naig Welcomes Applications for Urban Water Quality Project Grants - 9-29-2026
Cost-share grants support locally led conservation projects that improve water quality
DES MOINES, Iowa (Sept. 29, 2026) - Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today announced that the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) is accepting pre-applications for cost-share grants to support urban conservation and water quality projects. The locally led projects, available to Iowa communities of all sizes, support implementation of the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy and are part of the state’s continued efforts to improve water quality.
“Communities – big and small – have been putting proven conservation practices to work to improve water quality across Iowa since 2015,” said Secretary Naig. “From managing stormwater to reducing nutrient loss and protecting local waterways, these locally led projects help improve water quality and mitigate urban flooding. Many of these projects also become attractive community features that enhance quality of life. IDALS will continue working alongside communities to deliver cleaner water for Iowans because there is no finish line when it comes to conservation and there is always something more that can be done.”
Urban water quality projects utilize proven conservation practices such as wetlands, bioretention cells, bioswales, permeable pavement, native plantings, stormwater ponds and more. These practices help capture and treat runoff, reduce flooding risks, improve infiltration and protect downstream waterways while also enhancing wildlife habitat, expanding recreational opportunities and improving quality of life in communities across Iowa.
Eligible applicants include cities, counties, county conservation boards, Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs), other units of government, eligible not-for-profit organizations, public water supply utilities and watershed management authorities. State funding may cover up to 50 percent of eligible project costs. Successful projects should demonstrate strong local partnerships, sound technical design and the ability to efficiently implement practices while incorporating education and outreach that encourages broader adoption of urban conservation practices.
During 2026, the Department invested more than $3.63 million in 16 urban water quality projects across Iowa. Those investments, announced in May, June, July and September, leveraged nearly $6.86 million in matching funds. In total, $10.49 million was invested in urban water quality projects this year. Since the urban conservation program began in 2015, the Department has awarded more than $21 million in state funding to 154 projects, leveraging local public and private investments for a combined $79.4 million invested in urban water quality projects across Iowa.
Pre-applications are due no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6, 2026. Potential applicants must schedule a meeting with an IDALS Urban Conservationist, who can assist with project development, practice design guidance, budgets and application preparation. Applicants selected to submit full applications will be notified by Dec. 18, 2026, with full applications due Feb. 12, 2027.
For additional information about the application process or to connect with an Urban Conservationist, contact Urban Conservation Program Coordinator Ann Seda at 515-401-4908 or Ann.Seda@iowaagriculture.gov.
To learn more about urban conservation practices and Iowa’s ongoing water quality improvement efforts, visit CleanWaterIowa.org.
The Water Quality Initiative Urban Conservation Project pre-application is available here.