Colorado Water Conservation Board Grants

Pop Quiz: Which one of these is NOT a funded category through the Colorado Water Plan Grant program?

A. Water Storage & Supply 

B. Drainage & Wastewater

C. Conservation & Land Use Planning

D. Engagement & Innovation

Answer: B

The Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) offers multiple grant and loan programs to fund Colorado water-related projects, including studies and planning documents as well as public outreach materials and campaigns. All Colorado Water Plan Grants support the implementation of the Colorado Water Plan, the collaborative framework designed to help Colorado meet its water challenges through focused action around water development and water conservation.

The program funding categories include: 

  • Water Storage & Supply 

  • Water Sharing Agreements 

  • Conservation & Land Use Planning 

  • Engagement & Innovation 

  • Agricultural 

  • Watershed Health & Recreation 

Each category has a separate funding pool along with a set of unique criteria and considerations that will be evaluated when being considered for approval. Applications are assessed based on the available funding for each category.

There is a range of companies and entities that are eligible to receive these funds, including governmental organizations like municipalities and counties and private entities including mutual ditch companies.

Colorado Water Plan Grants has two funding cycles per year where applications are due. These are then reviewed and approved at a CWCB Board meeting. Matching fund requirements are based on the type of project approved under the grant program, generally ranging from a minimum of 25% to 50% matching funds.