Chippewa County Offers Matching Grants for Land Conservation

Funds available for farmland, natural resource protection, and public access projects

Mar. 19, 2026 at 5:08am

The Chippewa County Department of Land Conservation and Forest Management is offering matching grant funds to towns, villages, cities, and non-profit conservation organizations in the county. The grants must be used to acquire land or conservation easements for the purpose of farmland or natural resource protection, public trail acquisition, or expanded public hunting and fishing opportunities. Public access is a priority for all grant awards.

Why it matters

The Chippewa County Stewardship Program aims to preserve the region's agricultural lands and natural resources while also expanding public access for outdoor recreation. These grants provide an opportunity for local communities and conservation groups to partner with the county and secure funding for important land protection and recreation projects.

The details

The matching grants are available through the Chippewa County Stewardship Program. Eligible uses for the funds include acquiring land or conservation easements for farmland or natural resource protection, developing public trails, and expanding public hunting and fishing areas. All grant awards will prioritize ensuring public access to the protected lands and resources.

  • The grant application process for 2026 is now open.
  • The deadline to apply for the 2026 grants is February 25, 2026.

The players

Chippewa County Department of Land Conservation and Forest Management

The county agency responsible for administering the Chippewa County Stewardship Program and awarding the matching grants.

Lynda Schweikert

The director of the Chippewa County Department of Land Conservation and Forest Management.

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What’s next

Interested towns, villages, cities, and non-profit conservation organizations in Chippewa County should contact the Department of Land Conservation and Forest Management at 715-726-7920 to learn more about the 2026 grant criteria and application process.

The takeaway

The Chippewa County Stewardship Program's matching grants provide an important opportunity for local communities and conservation groups to partner with the county to protect farmland, natural resources, and expand public access for outdoor recreation across the region.