The Big Sky Watershed Corps program is made possible through host site partnerships. Host sites gain the assistance of a highly motivated college graduate to assist with project implementation and program capacity building. Host site organizations can be watershed groups, conservation districts, tribal offices, Federal/State agencies, and other community-based conservation organizations located in Montana. Partnerships are extended to host site organizations completing projects related to watershed health and protection, community engagement & education, and natural resource-driven volunteer generation.
MCC’s Individual Placement Programs cover member recruitment, all employer administrative aspects including payroll and worker’s comp. Host sites make the final selection of which member will serve with them for the 10.5 month program. Host Site organizations are required to submit an application to participate, provide a minimum of 10 hours a week of supervision to the member, and meet cost-share requirements.
Qualified host site organizations in Montana are invited to submit a competitive application to host a Big Sky Watershed Corps AmeriCorps member using the link at the top of the page. For questions regarding the program or the application contact Bryan Wilson at bryan@mtcorps.org or 406-587-4475.
MACD, in partnership with NRCS, is offering awards up to $7,000 in funding for the cost of a Big Sky Watershed Corps (BSWC) member for the 2025 term of service. A total of $21,000 is available. These awards are prioritized for Conservation Districts interested in hosting a BSWC member. There is a required 50% non-federal match associated with this award.
The APPLICATION IS NOW OPEN!
This funding is for projects that coincide with the following objectives:
- Provide technical assistance to agricultural producers to develop conservation plans that address resource concerns identified through the 9-step conservation planning process (NRCS 9 step planning process).
- Market and assist landowners in applying for and implementing Farm Bill programs to further the conservation of natural resources.
- Increase communications and outreach to increase partner buy-in and conservation program participation by landowners.
- Resource-based solutions in the following areas: range and cropland, forestry, water resources, soil health, wildlife, and conservation technical assistance.
If you are interested in this funding please fill out the application and return it to Brenna Rietmann at brenna@macdnet.org.
If you have any questions please contact Brenna Rietmann at brenna@macdnet.org. Applications are due by September 1, 2024.
