The little blue river project
Do you work, play, live or farm in the Lower Pigeon Creek Watershed?
In 2021, the Shelby County SWCD launched efforts to protect and improve the Little Blue River Watershed. A watershed management plan was completed in 2024 and as of February 2026, funds are now available to implement on-the-ground conservation! Read the Little Blue River Watershed Management Plan.
What is a watershed?
The Little Blue River Watershed Project focuses on protecting and improving water quality in the Little Blue River Watershed. All of the land from which water drains into a singular waterbody forms a watershed. These drainage boundaries are determined by land elevation rather than state or county lines, political boundaries, or residential property lines. View the Little Blue River Watershed.
Cost share program
The Little Blue River Project provides cost share funding to implement eligible conservation practices for land located in our funding area.
Are YOU eligible for funding?
View the map to learn if you are eligible! Landowners or operators within the yellow highlighted areas are eligible to apply for cost share funding to implement best management practices which will reduce nitrogen, phosphorus, sediment and pathogen in runoff. Modification of equipment funding is eligible under this program.
HOw the Program works!
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis - all applications received by the 1st of each month are reviewed and approved during the month following application. Practices must be installed according to NRCS standards and must be approved by the Little Blue River Project steering committee. The steering committee includes local District Conservationist as well as IN State Department of Agriculture, Purdue Extension and Soil and Water Conservation District staff. Approved applicants will receive up to 75% of the installation cost. Practices installed in advance of submitting an application, receiving approval and signing a project contract are not eligible for cost share funds. All funds are provided on a reimbursement basis.
What practices are eligible for funding?
Practices eligible for funding include: Cover crop planting, Conservation tillage, Nutrient and pesticide management (including manure), Grassed waterway installation or repair, Livestock restrictions and watering facilities, Waste storage facility construction or lcosure, Buffer strips, and more!
Have questions about the cost share program or are intersted in applying? Contact Sara or your local conservation district!
Funding Areas Map - To be eligible for cost share funding, your proposed project area must be located 50% or more within the yellow funding area. View as an interactive map!