OWEB Operating Capacity Grants - Council Capacity

The OWEB Operating Capacity Grants support watershed councils and soil and water conservation districts in their operational costs. These biennial grants foster community engagement in voluntary watershed restoration efforts. By funding 45 districts, the program aids in conserving natural resources and enhances water quality through collaborative practices. The Council Capacity Grants specifically empower councils to restore native fish habitats and improve watershed functions, ensuring sustainable water management and healthier ecosystems.

Operating Capacity investments are awarded biennially and help support the operating costs of effective watershed councils (councils) and soil and water conservation districts (SWCDs or districts) as they engage people in their communities to participate in collaborative, voluntary restoration of watersheds.
District Capacity Grants
Capacity grants to districts provide funding for 45 SWCDs to work with landowners to conserve natural resources and lend support to the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) Agricultural Water Quality Management Program. More information can be found on ODA's website.
Council Capacity Grants
These grants help support the operations of councils that engage people and communities in their watershed to participate in collaborative, voluntary restoration and protection of native fish or wildlife habitat and natural watershed functions to improve water quality or stream flows.