Not Currently Accepting Applications
MACD is currently unable to accept new Ranching for Rivers applications at this time. The next application cycle will open in February 2026, and we welcome applications and inquiries from the public. Please contact Madi Larson at madi@macdnet.org with any questions!
The Ranching for Rivers Program is a cost-share program designed to assist landowners in protecting riparian health through improved ranching practices. Through the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, Ranching for Rivers offers 50% cost-share for fencing material, off-site water infrastructure, and developing grazing management plans. Funding is also available for Conservation Districts and Watershed Groups to provide technical assistance on ranching management projects to local landowners in their area.
Landowners, Conservation Districts, and Watershed Groups who are working within areas with a DEQ-approved Total Maximum Daily Load Plan / Watershed Restoration Plan are encouraged to apply for program funding for identified projects. However, all applicants should review each of the four documents below prior to applying:
- 2025 Call for Applications
- Past Project Highlights/Examples
- 2025 Application
- Completed applications or questions should be submitted to madi@macdnet.org
- Project Final Reporting Template
Ranching For Rivers Project Timeline
Success on the Missouri and Milk River
In early 2016, SWCDM partnered with the Missouri River Conservation Districts Council (MRCDC) to launch the Ranching for Rivers pilot program. Five projects were funded through this pilot program, which helped ranchers develop riparian pastures on their lands by providing 50% cost-share for riparian fencing and related infrastructure (water gaps, off-site tanks, etc) projects. Altogether, the program resulted in over 10 miles of riparian pasture/fencing projects on the Missouri and Milk Rivers. One of the program participants was Dick and Connie Iversen, Richland County ranchers near Culbertson. You can read more about how the project unfolded here.
If you or your Conservation District are interested in learning more about this program, please contact programs@macdnet.org. Thank you to Rachel Frost and the Missouri River Conservation Districts Council for bringing this program to fruition and coordinating with landowners, MRCDC member districts for their participation, and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ)for project funding.
This project has been funded wholly or in part by the EPA under assistance agreement C9-99833623 to the Montana Department of Environmental Quality. The contents of this website/document do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the EPA, nor does the EPA endorse trade names or recommend the use of commercial products mentioned in this website/document.
