Priority Watersheds Phosphorus Reduction Program
Phosphorus concentrations and loads are issues in the Grand River and contribute to algae blooms in Lake Erie. Through the Priority Watersheds Phosphorus Reduction Program, two basins within the watershed are identified as priorities for stewardship action: the Nith River and Fairchild Creek. Landowners in these areas can apply for grants to help them undertake soil health and water quality projects to reduce phosphorus losses from their fields. See the subwatershed map to determine if your property falls within these targeted areas.
The program offers cost-share grants and incentives for selected best management practices (BMPs) to reduce Lake Erie phosphorus loads. Funding is available for projects including cover crops, stream fencing, field windbreaks, alternative phosphorus application practices, use of no-till or strip-till planting equipment and more.
The program is funded in part by the Government of Canada through the Canada Water Agency.
How to apply
Contact Grand River Conservation Authority staff at 519-621-2763 (x2242 or x2278) or ruralwater@grandriver.ca.
Our conservation specialists will help you plan your project and complete your application.
Your application will be evaluated based on your project’s potential to manage phosphorus losses to local watercourses.
Upon approval you can proceed with the project. You will receive payment for the project after completion and inspection by staff.
Grant Rates
- Alternative phosphorus application practices: $15 per acre up to a maximum of 100 acres
- Use of no-till or strip-till planting equipment: $20 per acre up to a maximum of 100 acres
- Cover crops: $25 per acre to a maximum of 100 acres
- Erosion control structures: 75% up to $10,000
- Livestock Fencing: 75-100% up to $5,000
- Field windbreaks, stream buffers: 75% up to $5,000
- Wetland Creation: 50% up to $6,000
- Soil testing 75% up to $2,000
- Crop nutrient management planning 75% up to $1,000
Contact Us
Grand River Conservation Authority
400 Clyde Road, PO Box 729
Cambridge, ON
N1R 5W6
Phone: 519-621-2761
Toll Free: 1-866-900-4722
grca@grandriver.ca