Rural Water Quality Program
About the Program
Financial assistance through the Rural Water Quality Program (RWQP) is available for qualified Dufferin County landowners to share in the cost of selected projects that improve and protect water quality.
The RWQP makes grants available for on-the-ground projects to improve water quality and restore aquatic and wildlife habitat.
Landowners and farmers are encouraged to apply.
Grants range from 50-100% to a maximum of $5,000 depending on project type.
Project sites must be located in Dufferin County.
Eligible Projects & Grant Rates
| Project | Grant Rate | Maximum Grant |
|---|---|---|
| Clean Water Diversion | 50% | $3,000 |
| Exclusion Fencing | 75-100% | $5,000 |
| Nutrient Management Plans | 75-100% | $2,000 |
| Crop Nutrient Plans | 75% | $2,000 |
| Erosion Control Structures | 50% | $5,000 |
| Machinery Crossing Improvements | 50% | $3,000 |
| Cover Crops | Incentive based | |
| Living Snow Fences | 100% | $5,000 |
| Tree Planting & Fragile Land Retirement | 75% | $5,000 |
| Wetland Creation | 50% | $5,000 |
| Wellhead Decommission | 100% | $1,000* |
| Wellhead Protection | 80% | $1,000* |
| Innovative Technologies | Considered on an individual project basis |
*Eligibility note: All Dufferin residents (not just farmers) are eligible to apply for well projects.
An Environmental Farm Plan or completed Rural Landowner Stewardship Guide is required to apply, as is a short application form.
Program Guidelines & Application Forms
These documents are available in alternative formats if required.
Project Forms
Questions and completed application forms should be directed to:
Shannon Stephens, Healthy Waters Program Coordinator
NVCA, 8195 8th Line, Utopia, ON, LOM 1T0
T: 705-424-1479 ext 239
E: sstephens@nvca.on.ca
Who to Contact
Shannon Stephens
Healthy Waters Program Coordinator
705-424-1479 x 239
sstephens@nvca.on.ca
Stewardship Services