The Missouri Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, as the Natural Resource Trustees, are requesting proposals for restoration activities within the Spring River Watershed. The Trustees have $2 million in grant funding available to implement projects that restore aquatic natural resources injured by historical mining practices in the Tri-State Mining District. To be considered, an electronic copy of your proposal must be submitted by email to scott_hamilton@fws.gov and elliot.hollingsworth@dnr.mo.gov and received by Monday, Nov. 23 2026 at 5 p.m. local time.
Grant recipients will carry out projects that directly restore aquatic habitat and ensure the long term viability of restoration outcomes through mechanisms such as contracts, conservation easements, ownership, or other binding controls. The main goal is to fund aquatic restoration projects within the Spring River Watershed that benefit federally listed mussel species. Projects selected for funding will be those that best address ecological services and natural resources injured as a result of lead and zinc mine waste and related historic mining activities. Because effective mussel habitat restoration relies heavily on water quality, the Trustees are also interested in proposals that improve water quality in targeted areas throughout the greater Spring River watershed.
Additional information is provided in the Request for Proposals. Questions regarding the Request for Proposals should be submitted by email to scott_hamilton@fws.gov or elliot.hollingsworth@dnr.mo.gov.