Matching Grant

When are applications due?

• Applications are due on June 1st of each year.

What is the project timeline?

• Matching Grant contracts begin on January 1st of each year, and the projects must conclude by November 20th. Final reports and reimbursement requests are accepted until December 20th. 

What was the Supplemental Grant? 

• The Supplementation Matching Grant was a one-time grant fund offered by the CSCB in 2025. 

Will there be a Matching Grant next year?

• Currently, the funding source for Matching Grants will allow us to accept applications for next year. However, based on quantity and quality of applications, not every application may be selected for funding. It's important to provide a new, proofread, and accurate application each year, as this program is competitive.

District Conservation Technician Grant

Can Districts advertise and hire their vacant DCT positions?

• If your District has applied for and been rewarded with a DCT contract for this year, you may fill vacancies. Though there is a federal hiring freeze in place, we have received approval from our partners to fill vacant DCT roles and utilize awarded funding.

When are applications due?

• Applications are due on July 1st of each year.

When can we hire a DCT?

• Once a District has been provided a formal contract (POGG1), they may hire a DCT within the bounds of said contract. These contracts typically begin on January 1st of each year.

When will we know if funding is available for new DCTs?

• Due to the dynamic and changing status of federal funding, we are unable to provide an exact date, or even a precise estimate, on when funding will be secured. Please know that our team is actively working with federal partners to align funding. Additionally, during the November 2025 CSCB Meeting, the Board motioned for the continuation, accessibility, and success of the DCT program to remain a primary objective. The CSCB is committed to the preservation of the DCT Program and the impact it serves to the agricultural community in Colorado.

Can multiple Districts apply for a DCT together?

• Yes, Districts can submit a joint application for a "shared" DCT. Historically, the "shared" roles span Districts that fall under the same NRCS RTL management, and further under the management of Districts with a single District Manager. While this is not required, it could be helpful in ensuring the success of the DCT, collaboration between partnering Districts, and ability to meet grant deadlines.

What is the process to apply for a "shared" DCT?

• Partnering Districts should first meet and confirm interest, as well as select a "lead" District to function as the point of contact in the application, reporting, and reimbursement process. It will be the responsibility of this District, as specified on the application, to communicate, meet grant deadlines, and submit reimbursement requests. Districts are responsible for determining financial breakdowns and for reimbursing DCT appropriately.

Should I apply for a Farm Bill or an Inflation Reduction Act DCT? 

• The major difference between these roles is the funding source. However, DCT positions intended for specific responsibilities, such as forestry and engineering, should use IRA DCT applications. Districts should use the corresponding application when applying to extend existing applications. For new DCT positions/applications, please reach out to the Grants team for more information and help in selecting the application that most suits the needs of the area.

Still have questions?

Please reach out to our Grants team at cda_cscbgrants@state.co.us for help!