Funding Q & A
Are you wondering how our funding program works? Here are some frequently asked questions! If you don't find the answer to your questions, feel free to give us a call at 1-800-465-0437 or email restoration@LSRCA.on.ca.
- Who provides funding for the grants?
Our member municipalities provide the funding that is available to landowners in the Lake Simcoe watershed. This funding helps landowners complete projects that have environmental benefits, supporting improved water quality, soil conservation, or natural heritage enhancement.
- Am I eligible for a funding grant?
Owners of public, private, or commercial properties within the Lake Simcoe watershed are eligible to apply for funding assistance. Each grant category has specific eligibility criteria that must be met before funding is approved. To find out more about each category's guidelines, visit our eligible project list and click your project of interest.
- Who can I talk to about an environmental project on my property?
Our Restoration Project Specialists have expertise in biology, ecology, forestry, bio-engineering, and many related fields. Their technical advice is provided at no cost, to help you plan and complete your project. Our team can also assist you with accessing funding from other sources, if/when it is available.
- What types of projects receive funding, and what projects are eligible for funding assistance?
A range of projects may be considered for funding. Each project type is unique. We recommend you check each project category to determine what costs are eligible. For details on eligible projects, please refer to the project guidelines available under each of our project category pages. Innovative projects may also be considered for funding. Contact our Restoration Project Specialists for more information.
- How much money can I expect to receive through a funding grant?
Funding rates and caps vary depending on the project. Rates typically range from 50 - 100%, with caps for each project. View the project guidelines for details, or view the eligible projects for an overview of rates and caps.
- How do I apply for funding?
An application package consists of Applicant Information Forms, Project Profile Forms, as well as a minimum of two written quotes from qualified contractors. Some project categories require additional information to accompany the application. Application Forms can be found under eligible projects. Click the link to the project you're interested in completing, and then click the drop down to see application forms.
- Can my contractor apply on my behalf and receive the funding directly?
While a contractor may be able to assist you in filling out your application form, we strongly encourage all applicants to complete the necessary forms yourself as you will be required to sign all documents. The funding cannot be issued to the contractor directly. Only the landowner is eligible to receive the grant reimbursement.
- Where
do I send the completed and signed application package?
Applications can be filled out electronically and submitted via email, fax (905-853-5881), mailed or hand delivered to the LSRCA offices at 120 Bayview Parkway, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 3W3. Don't forget that an application filled out electronically will still require the landowner's signature prior to submitting. Paper copies of the application are also available.
- When should I apply?
Applications are accepted year-round. The funding is limited each year and is administered on a first-come, first-served basis.
- I've applied for a grant. When can I begin my project?
All projects must be pre-approved for funding prior to commencing. Projects that begin prior to receiving a formal letter of funding approval are considered retroactive and are no longer eligible to receive funding assistance.
- When will I receive my funding assistance?
Funding assistance is provided through a reimbursement process. Landowners are responsible for arranging permits, project construction, and for paying contractors up-front and in-full. Receipts and other required documents must be sent to our stewardship department upon project completion. A checklist of required information is sent with your funding approval letter. Once all required documents are received, you can expect to receive a cheque in the mail within 4-6 weeks.
- I've already completed my project. Can I still apply for funding?
All projects must be pre-approved to be eligible for funding. We cannot fund projects retroactively.
- I've been approved for funding through another organization. Can I still apply for your program?
Yes, you can still apply for our funding. In many cases, we can work with you to apply for other grants to "stack" your funding.
