Financial Assistance Programs
Wetlands provide essential services to Oklahomans, but wetland restoration can be costly and require technical expertise that makes implementation inaccessible for most Oklahomans. OCC, in cooperation with local conservation districts and a broad array of project partners, offers various financial assistance programs to support restoration and enhancement efforts.
STATE FUNDING
ReNEW Cost-Share Program
OCC receives an annual budget allocation from the Oklahoma State Legislature for wetland restoration and enhancement. These funds are given back to Oklahomans through the Restoring Natural Ecology in Wetlands (ReNEW) Program.
The ReNEW program offers up to 80% cost-share for wetland restoration, enhancement, or creation. The program is available state-wide. All land uses and wetland types are eligible.
The Application Period is now open! Apply by September 30, 2026, to be considered for Fiscal Year 2027.
Click here to apply.
For more information, see the links below.
FEDERAL FUNDING
NFWF AERI: Southern Great Plains Wetlands and Prairie Collaborative
OCC’s Wetlands Team applies for federal grants to bring additional money to Oklahoma for wetland restoration. In 2024, OCC received a National Fish and Wildlife Foundation grant that will put $1 million on the ground in Oklahoma over the next three years.
OCC’s AERI program offers cost-share assistance for depressional wetland restoration in the North Canadian, Cimarron, and Arkansas River watersheds. Click here to see if your property is in the project area.
Applications are screened for eligibility and ranked by program alignment and wetland size. Contracts are awarded on a first come, first served basis.
Now accepting applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until funding is expended. Click here to apply.
For more information, see the links below.
PRIVATE FUNDING
OCC receives grants from conservation partners and private industries who want to support wetland restoration. Each private organization has different interests and eligibility criteria.
Current priorities include:
- Playa wetland restoration in Cimarron, Texas, Beaver, and Harper counties,
- Depressional and riverine wetland restoration and enhancement in the central flyway, and
- Restoration of all wetland types in Northeast Oklahoma, specifically the Arkansas Watershed/ Neosho-Verdigris River Subregion.
Privately funded programs may offer annual incentive payments and additional funds for certain conservation practices in addition to cost-share for restoration.
Apply now or contact the OCC Wetlands Team to determine which assistance programs you are eligible for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which programs am I eligible for?
Each OCC program has different eligibility requirements. Many focus on a specific geographic area or wetland type. Review the guidelines documents and program maps to learn each program’s requirements.
Alternatively, all programs use the same application. When you submit an application, the OCC Wetlands Team will review it and determine which programs you are eligible for. They will then contact you to schedule a site visit. Apply now to be considered for all assistance opportunities.
If you would like additional support, contact us. We are happy to provide technical assistance and guide you to the appropriate program.
How do I apply for the financial assistance?
The Wetland Assistance Application is available as a Microsoft Form or PDF. Click here to apply.
You can submit an application any time of the year. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the Wetlands Team will reach out to schedule a site visit once your application is received.
Some programs, like the ReNEW Program, require applications be submitted by a deadline. Apply by September 30, 2026, to be considered for the Fiscal Year 2027 ReNEW Program.
Contact your local conservation district or the OCC Wetlands Team if you have questions.
What restoration activities can these programs support?
The OCC Wetlands Team will work with selected applicants to create a restoration plan that includes a range of practices intended to meet both the landowner’s goals and provide environmental benefits.
Practices will vary by project, but may include:
- Sediment removal
- Restoration of wetland hydrology
- Berm construction
- Installation of water control structures
- Livestock exclusion fencing
- Native grass buffer installation
If you need assistance identifying which practices would improve your wetland, contact us.
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