2026 Water Fund opens to support local environmental projects

KAWARTHA WATERSHED, ONTARIO - Kawartha Conservation is inviting landowners and community groups across the City of Kawartha Lakes and Durham Region to apply for funding through the 2026 Water Fund until April 30, 2026. 

The Water Fund is an annual grant program that supports projects that improve water quality and strengthen local ecosystems. Successful applicants can receive up to $4,000 per project.

The Water Fund helps landowners and community organizations turn good ideas into real, on-the-ground action by providing not just funding, but also technical advice and support from Kawartha Conservation staff.

Projects can range from tree planting and shoreline naturalization to erosion control, agricultural best management practices, septic upgrades, and well decommissioning.

“The Water Fund is really about helping people take that next step,” said Julia Derue, Stewardship Technician with Kawartha Conservation. “So many landowners want to do the right thing for their property and for the environment. This program helps remove barriers and gives them the support they need to make projects happen that truly benefit our lakes, rivers, and streams.”

Since its launch, the Water Fund has helped hundreds of local projects move forward, creating healthier shorelines, cleaner water, and stronger habitats throughout the watershed.

“The impact of these projects adds up,” said Derue. “Each planting, each upgraded septic system, each restored shoreline plays a role in protecting water quality and building a healthier watershed for everyone.”

Projects must be located within the Kawartha Conservation watershed and demonstrate a clear benefit to water quality or ecosystem health.

Interested applicants are encouraged to review the program guidelines and connect with Kawartha Conservation staff early to discuss their project idea and confirm eligibility.

How to apply:

• Review the Water Fund guidelines on the Kawartha Conservation website
• Contact staff to discuss your project and confirm eligibility
• Submit a completed application before April 30, 2026

To learn more about the Water Fund or to apply, visit kawarthaconservation.com/waterfund.

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Media Contact:

John Chambers
Marketing & Communications Specialist
705.328.2271 ext. 220
Jchambers@KawarthaConservation.com