How to Get the Cost Share Grant Program

What you get

Oneida County Land and Water Conservation Department reimburses homeowners up to $10,000 or 50% of total project cost, whichever is less, for non-engineered conservation practices including rain gardens and native plantings (engineered practices are also eligible at a higher deposit tier). A refundable deposit is required before design work: $500 for non-engineered practices, $1,000 for engineered practices. The practice must remain in place for 10 years (Oneida County Land and Water Conservation Department; last verified July 2026).

• Residential: Up to $10,000 or 50% of project cost, whichever is less

Are you eligible?

• Be a Oneida County Land and Water Conservation Department customer
• Property located in: Rhinelander
• Oneida County, WI residential property
• Refundable deposit before design work: $500 (rain garden/native planting) or $1,000 (engineered practice)
• Practice must remain in place for 10 years
• Site visit and application required; approved via the county Conservation and UW-Extension Education Committee

What applying usually looks like

A general guide. Always confirm the exact steps on the official program page, since each provider runs its process a little differently.

1. 1

   Apply and get written approval first

   Submit your application to Oneida County Land and Water Conservation Department and wait for written approval before you remove any turf or start work. Starting early is the most common reason a rebate is denied.

2. 2

   Do the conversion

   Replace your lawn with the qualifying landscaping, following the eligibility requirements above.

3. 3

   Submit your claim

   After the work is done, submit your claim on the official program page. Confirm the exact forms, receipts, and any photos they require there, since those vary by program.