Madison County approves extension request to advance Big Hole River restoration grant

Madison County commissioners approved a request to send an extension letter for a Renewable Resource Grant tied to the Big Hole River restoration project so the county can use the DNRC grant as local match for a federal Bureau of Reclamation WaterSMART grant.

Jeremiah (county staff) explained that Big Hole Watershed Committee prepared the WaterSMART application but the county must be the applicant because the private nonprofit cannot apply directly. “The county actually submitted a WaterSMART grant already,” Jeremiah said, clarifying the county’s role as sponsor and pass-through for the watershed group’s project application.

Staff said the county’s Renewable Resource Grant was for design and permitting work and that the DNRC grant (the extension under consideration) would serve as the match for a WaterSMART construction grant; WaterSMART applications are due Sept. 9, with selections expected within about two months. Commissioners discussed the status of design plans and permits, the county’s administrative role in managing grants, and next steps if a WaterSMART award is not received (the watershed group would seek alternate funding).

A motion and second to approve the extension passed. Commissioners and staff said there is no immediate county financial liability from acting as the applicant/pass-through; the county will need to clarify grant-management responsibilities with the watershed group if awarded federal funds.

The board instructed staff to transmit the extension letter to the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation and to coordinate with the Big Hole Watershed Committee on grant-management details.