Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
NORTH WEBSTER — The Watershed Foundation (TWF), in partnership with the Kosciusko County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), has been awarded a $144,300 Clean Water Indiana (CWI) grant to protect and improve water quality across the Upper Tippecanoe River watershed.
With these funds, TWF will continue implementing pollution-prevention projects through three programs available to homeowners, landowners, and agricultural operators. The grant extends program funding through Dec. 31, 2028, or until all funds are allocated, according to a news release from TWF.
Healthy Shorelines offers grants to homeowners to stabilize eroding shorelines. This funding will support the stabilization of 750 linear feet of shoreline, keeping an estimated 50 tons of sediment out of local waterways. Applications are available online and are due Aug. 1, 2026.
Beyond Lawns supports homeowners, organizations, and businesses in incorporating native plants on their properties to increase water infiltration and reduce runoff. Applications for properties under one acre are due June 1; properties over one acre should apply by Oct. 1.
"We are excited to expand Beyond Lawns to areas farther downstream through our partnership with the Kosciusko County Soil and Water Conservation District," said Caitlin Yoder, TWF's watershed coordinator.
Healthy Soils, Clean Water is facilitated by TWF's watershed conservationists on an ongoing basis and focuses on agricultural landowners and farm operators. Through this grant, TWF provides up to 75% cost-share reimbursement for cover crops on 2,000 acres, as well as installation of grassed waterways and blind inlets as alternatives to tile risers.
As part of this grant, TWF is committed to achieving the following annual pollution-reduction goals:
● Sediment: 6,016 tons/year
● Phosphorus: 5,785 lbs/year
● Nitrogen: 11,593 lbs/year
The Watershed Foundation protects the Upper Tippecanoe River watershed — including Grassy and Walnut Creeks — encompassing more than 60 lakes and 236 square miles. The Kosciusko County SWCD serves an area of 151,040 acres and more than 100 lakes, and supports all farmers and landowners throughout the county.
For more information about conservation programs or to apply, contact TWF at watershed@watershedfoundation.org or visit www.watershedfoundation.org.
