Watershed restoration projects like tree planting, rain gardens, bioswales, conservation landscaping, pollinator habitat, and stream buffers generally have two phases: 1) installation and 2) operation and maintenance (O&M) for the lifespan of the project. Maintaining projects keeps them functioning as designed and ensures aesthetic value, which maintains public support for these investments. We want restoration practices to clean water, cool neighborhoods, and provide habitat benefits long after installation.

In most of our grant programs, we require short-term maintenance immediately after project installation during the project award period, costs for which can be included in the grant, as well as long-term maintenance plans to be proposed for the post-award period. While required at the time of application, we understand that the unexpected often happens (invasive species that had never been present colonize the area, resources that might have been available at the time become unavailable, people and organizations change). Also, see our “Maintenance for Stormwater Practices – If we build it, can we maintain it?” webinar on this topic: https://cbtrust.org/convenings/.

Factors such as project age, size, and type impact whether maintenance at any one time will cost a few hundred dollars (e.g., invasive species control and plant replacements) or tens of thousands of dollars (e.g., replacing filtering media in large stormwater systems). This program during its first pilot year will focus on the former: small-scale maintenance projects that are $500 or less specifically for: 1) invasive species removal/control and/or 2) plant replacements/enhancements.

While small this first year, our goal is to grow this new program over time and resource it in a way such that it provides resources for maintenance in perpetuity.  Bear with us and provide feedback as we build it.

What this funds: This program during its first pilot year will focus on small-scale maintenance projects that are $500 or less, specifically for: 1) invasive species removal/control and/or 2) plant replacements/enhancements.

Who can apply: Homeowners associations, civic groups, youth and service organizations, and other community-based associations; faith-based groups, watershed organizations and other nonprofits, schools; and small municipalities (population < 5,000). No more than two applications will be considered from an organization each year during this pilot period until the program grows larger.

Eligible Project Location: Maryland

Request Amounts: Up to $500

Funding Available: In this pilot year for both the program and the financing mechanism, we anticipate having $8,000 available. Depending on demand, we aim to grow the program and offer more funds in future years.

Grant Application Process: The Chesapeake Bay Trust’s grant applications are all submitted through an online system. If you have questions regarding the application process, please contact this program’s grant manager. Note that this application is simplified to allow you to apply easily and quickly (e.g., no budget spreadsheet is required, and no final report is required – we simply ask you to commit to providing a picture of the completed project). We will review and respond to your application within six weeks.