Reclamation and Development Grants Program

General Information

The Reclamation and Development Grants Program is a state-funded grant program.  It is designed to fund projects that compensate Montana citizens for the effects of exploration and mining on Montana lands and projects that serve the public interest and the State of Montana.  The program was established by the 1987 Montana Legislature and is administered by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).

Funding for this program is derived from interest income from the resource Indemnity Trust Fund.  This fund receives proceeds from taxes levied on mineral production.  The Legislature has allocated $3 million of the interest income from the Resource Indemnity Trust Fund to the Reclamation and Development Grants Program.

Project Eligibility

Projects must provide benefits in one or more of the following categories:

1. Reclamation of land, water, or other resources adversely affected by mining and exploration
2. Mitigation of damage to public resources caused by mining exploration
3. Research, demonstration, or technical assistance to promote the wise use of Montana minerals, including efforts to make processing less damaging to the environment.
4. Identification and repair of sites where toxic and hazardous waste threaten public health or the environment
5. Research to assess existing or potential environmental damage resulting from mining and exploration.

If there is a crucial state need to protect Montana's environment, the legislature may approve funding for projects in addition to these described above.

Applicant Eligibility

Any department, agency, board, commission, or other division of state government or any city, county, or other political subdivision or tribal government in Montana may apply for a grant.

Funding Limitations

Grants are limited to $300,000 per project.  All grants must be approved by the Legislature.

Click Here For Application:

Applications are due on or before May 15th of even-numbered years.