Funding Available for Projects That Protect and Enhance the Deerfield River Watershed
Funding from the Deerfield River Enhancement Fund helped The Green River Village Preservation Trust install stone stairs that improve access to the Green River in Guilford, VT. The Green River is a tributary of the Deerfield River.
Organizations in Vermont and Massachusetts can now apply for funding to support watershed conservation, development of low-impact recreational and educational facilities, and planning, design, maintenance, and monitoring of such facilities in the Deerfield River Watershed.
The Deerfield River Enhancement Fund at the Vermont Community Foundation was established in 1999 in partnership with the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, and Great River Hydro, LLC to support projects that help protect, restore, and strengthen the Deerfield River Watershed.
This year, the Deerfield River Enhancement Fund Advisory Committee is excited to announce that the previous funding cap has been removed, allowing applicants to request up to the full amount available. This change is intended to support transformational, collaborative projects that can create lasting benefits throughout the watershed.
The Vermont Community Foundation anticipates awarding approximately $60,000 through this grant round. The final award amount is subject to change, and grant staff will contact applicants if budget adjustments are necessary prior to award. The advisory committee may choose to award one large-scale project or multiple smaller projects. Applications for any amount up to $60,000 are encouraged.
Deerfield River Enhancement Fund grants can be used as matching funds for other grant awards. While matching funds are not required, applicants are encouraged to demonstrate at least a 50% match in their proposals whenever possible.
Grants will be awarded for new initiatives, one-time special projects, or the continuation of existing outstanding programs. Examples include land conservation initiatives, improvements to public recreational access, trail projects, field trips, educational workshops, and other stewardship efforts.
Applications will be accepted from nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and units of local and regional government within Vermont and Massachusetts. Projects must be located within the Deerfield River Basin or in towns with some portion of land falling within the basin. Projects outside the basin must demonstrate a direct connection to the watershed.
Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, January 19, 2027. Notifications and awards will be sent to applicants in spring or summer of 2027. Visit vermontcf.org/deerfield to learn more and apply.
Contact Us
With questions about the Deerfield River Enhancement Fund and its grant program, please contact Emma Johnson.
