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The Eagle River Fund, in collaboration with the Western Colorado Community Foundation, is now accepting grant applications. Established to support projects that protect, enhance and maintain the quality, quantity and temperature of water within the Eagle River Watershed, the fund advances community-driven efforts to sustain this vital natural resource.

The Eagle River Fund provides match funding to help organizations leverage additional support for impactful local projects. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public entities such as municipalities and special districts and private organizations working in partnership with an eligible fiscal sponsor.

Projects must address one or more of the fund’s key objectives:

• Water quantity: Efforts to improve water efficiency, conservation and functional streamflows.
• Water quality: Strategies that reduce erosion, stormwater impacts or maintain natural temperature regimes.
• Natural infrastructure: Restoration and habitat projects that improve streamside and instream conditions and support ecological resilience.

For the 2026 competitive funding round, the expected range for grant funding is from $5,000 to $25,000. Projects should be designed for completion within 12–18 months.

“The Eagle River Watershed is central to the health and vitality of our mountain communities,” said Melanie Smith, Eagle River Fund manager. “We’re eager to support projects that reflect collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to sustaining this precious resource for future generations.”

Before submitting an application, interested organizations are encouraged to contact Melanie Smith at info@eagleriverfund.org to discuss project ideas and eligibility. Questions about the online application system may be directed to Sarah Fuller, program officer at Western Colorado Community Foundation (sfuller@wc-cf.org), or Talitha Costello, database and records associate (tcostello@wc-cf.org).

The deadline to apply is Friday, Feb. 27 by 5 p.m. MST.

To learn more about the Eagle River Fund and its impact, visit eagleriverfund.org.