The Kentucky River Authority is supported by water user fees that are collected from facilities that withdraw water from the basin. In 2003, the KRA began allocating a portion of the fees toward a Watershed Grant Program to help support organizations interested in improving water quality in the Kentucky River and its tributaries. The University of Kentucky Water Research Institute administers this grant program on behalf of KRA. The goal is to support water quality improvement initiatives throughout the Kentucky River Basin.
Project types may include:
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Water quality improvement (e.g. nature-based solutions, rain gardens, wetland enhancement, riparian buffers, tree planting, trash pickup, septic system repair, etc.) |
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Outreach and education (e.g. environmental lesson plans, nonprofit startup, water festivals, stream walks, etc.) |
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Monitoring and analysis (e.g. sampling kits, data analysis, etc.) |
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Recreational access (e.g. boat ramps, trails, signage, etc.) |
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Programmatic (e.g. watershed plan coordination, sampling coordination, feasibility study, etc.) |
Non-profits and local governments located within the Kentucky River Basin are eligible to apply. This includes portions of the following counties within the Kentucky River basin:
Anderson, Bell, Boone, Boyle, Breathitt, Carroll, Casey, Clark, Clay, Estill, Fayette, Franklin, Gallatin, Garrard, Grant, Harlan, Henry, Jackson, Jessamine, Kenton, Knott, Knox, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Lincoln, Madison, Menifee, Mercer, Montgomery, Morgan, Owen, Owsley, Perry, Powell, Rockcastle, Scott, Shelby, Wolfe, and Woodford.
Eligible organizations may include schools, environmental non-profits, watershed organizations, homeowner associations, nature preserves, parks, health departments, and faith-based organizations. Other types of organizations may be eligible but should contact kwri@uky.edu for more information.
Anticipated Project Period March 2027 – June 2028
How to Apply
Applications are to be submitted via the KWRI watershed grant application portal.
Questions or requests for technical assistance about the application process should be made via kwri@uky.edu.
Award Ceiling $5,000
Closing Date December 4, 2026
Apply Now