LANSING — The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, has grants available for farmers and other landowners to implement conservation practices in the western Lake Erie Basin. 

Participants will receive funding to improve soil health, reduce phosphorus and sediment loading, and prevent harmful algal blooms that have become an increasing problem in Lake Erie.

“Every new conservation practice implemented can help make a difference in protecting our water quality for future generation and minimize future harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie,” MDARD Director Tim Boring said in a news release.

The South Branch of the River Raisin is one of several focus areas for Michigan’s funding, although all agricultural lands within Michigan’s portion of the Western Lake Erie Basin are eligible to apply. Eligible practices include but are not limited to nutrient management, waste storage structures, drainage water management, and more.  

Applications for the current funding cycle are due Dec. 15 and more information is available at www.mi.nrcs.usda.gov.