Shoreline/Streambank Stabilization Cost Share Program

There is no deadline for non-residential cost share projects. The Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD) offers funds through the Shoreline & Streambank Stabilization Cost Share Program for projects that help protect the valuable water resources within the watershed.

Cost Share Grants for Shoreline/Streambank Stabilization

Get the full details on eligibility, evaluation, and application in our Residential Stormwater BMP Summary and Guidance Document.

Who is Eligible: Any property owner within the MCWD (Residential Landowners, Apartments, Condominium Associations, Cities, Non-profit organizations, Churches, Schools, Businesses, Corporations,) located within the boundaries of the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District are eligible for funds through this program. Funds will not be considered if the project is being required by any governmental entity.
Examples of Eligible Practices: Eligible projects include those involving the strategic placement of natural vegetative materials either with or without toe stabilization to stabilize eroded shorelines, streambanks, or channels. This is commonly referred to as biological or bioengineered stabilization of shorelines and streambanks.
Eligible expenses: The MCWD will evaluate each proposal to determine eligible expenses. Eligible expenses include design, materials, labor and two years of maintenance. Any work done before the Cost Share Funding Agreement is signed will not be eligible for funds.

Criteria: Grant proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

Water Quality: Does the project reduce the rate or volume of runoff or promote the infiltration of runoff?
Soil Erosion Control: Does it reduce erosion or reduce sedimentation in downstream waters?
Wildlife Habitat: Does it improve wildlife habitat through native plantings or restoration efforts that are consistent with the natural hydrology/geography of the area?
Innovative Techniques: Does it provide a new solution with potential to be duplicated elsewhere?
Collaboration: Does it demonstrate strong partnerships and/or local citizen support?
Public Outreach: Is the site publically visible? Is the property owner willing to participate in public outreach or education opportunities?

What is Stormwater Runoff?

In a natural environment, most rainwater soaks into the ground or is captured by trees and other plants. As land is developed, it is covered by hard surfaces – roads, parking lots and rooftops – that prevent natural infiltration, and allow water to quickly run downstream. This runoff, known as stormwater, carries dirt, fertilizer, pesticides, pet waste and debris into lakes, streams and wetlands.

Storm sewer systems, which are designed to prevent localized flooding in urban areas, also often carry polluted water into our valuable surface waters. Polluted stormwater runoff is the number one water quality problem in Minnesota and across the country.

Why use Native Plantings on Shorelines and Streambanks?

Native plants are the best choice for the borders between land and water because their roots filter and absorb polluted runoff before it enters the lake, stream, or wetland. The plants also anchor the soil to prevent erosion, beautify shorelines and improve their natural height and density to discourage geese, which prefer turf.
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