Water Resource | Fall 2026 Newsletter

In this edition, discover how innovative projects, digital engagement tools, funding opportunities, and dedicated professionals are helping communities restore natural systems, improve water quality, and build long-term resilience.

Restoring a River, Reimagining a
Rest Area

St. James, MN

When the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) set out to improve the Watonwan Rest Area along State Highway 60, there was also an opportunity to restore a degraded section of the adjacent South Fork Watonwan River. ISG developed a master plan that balances visitor experience, environmental stewardship, and long-term river health. Through site analysis, conceptual design, and mitigation banking expertise, the team identified opportunities to enhance recreation amenities while restoring ecological function along the river corridor.

The resulting vision introduces new amenities such as a playground, dog park, and nature trail while reconnecting visitors to the restored stream through natural channel design, floodplain restoration, and habitat improvements. Environmental review and permitting strategies were incorporated early in the process to support future implementation, creating a roadmap for a rest area that serves both travelers and the surrounding environment.

Key Players

Leveraging Applied Technology:

A Creek, a Map, and 174 Ideas

Spearfish, SD

The Spearfish Creek Preservation Plan demonstrates how digital engagement can expand community participation and generate meaningful, place-based feedback. ISG created an interactive online hub where residents could identify opportunities, concerns, and valued locations along the creek corridor. By mirroring the format of the project open house and promoting the platform through QR codes, social media, email outreach, and community communications, the team provided a consistent experience for participants whether they engaged in person or online. Keeping the platform active before, during, and after the open house encouraged ongoing participation and allowed residents to contribute feedback on their own schedule.

The approach resulted in 174 map comments and 84 survey responses. The location-specific insights helped refine concepts and priorities for future improvements, turning community knowledge into actionable guidance for
Spearfish Creek.

ISG's funding specialists excel in securing grants, having obtained over $45 million in public and private funding across the Midwest. Our connections with local, state, and federal agencies ensure swift, tailored grant applications that meet criteria and boost acceptance rates. Continuously updated on federal and state funding, our team navigates evolving programs, guiding clients toward optimal opportunities. With a focus on legislative awareness, we maximize funding, leveraging every available dollar for impactful projects.

Check here for upcoming funding opportunities, success stories, and resources on navigating the complexities of grant applications for your drainage and water
quality initiatives.

Conservation Acceleration Funds

Supports conservation projects across the Midwest
Application can be completed in less than 30 minutes
No matching funds required, though a match may strengthen an application
No minimum or maximum award amount
Develop project concepts and prepare application materials now to meet spring funding round
Click HERE for more information

Iowa Water Quality Initiative Urban Conservation Program

Supports urban conservation projects that improve water quality across Iowa
Eligible applicants include local governments, conservation boards, utilities, watershed authorities, and nonprofit organizations
State funding may cover up to 50% of project costs
Pre-applications are due November 6, 2026, with full applications due February 12, 2027 for selected projects
ISG can assist with site visits, concept development, and pre-application preparation ahead of the deadline
Click HERE for more information

As construction and field work begin to slow for the season, now is an ideal time to prepare for upcoming funding opportunities. Water quality, water storage, conservation, and outdoor heritage programs are expected to open over the coming months. Reach out to ISG's funding team to discuss project ideas, identify grant opportunities, connect with funding agencies, and begin preparing competitive applications for future funding cycles.

November 3-6

North American Lake
Management Society (NALMS) International Symposium

Kelowna, British Columbia

December 7-8

Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC) Annual Conference

Bloomington, MN

Presenting: Chuck Brandel, PE

April 9-10, 2027

2027 The Future of Southern Minnesota Lakes Conference

Mankato, MN

Stay in the loop! Join our mailing list for upcoming event updates.

Connecting
Across States

The month of September kept our team on the road, traveling across the region to attend conferences, connect with local communities, and spend time with clients and collaborators. While the travel schedule was full, the conversations, ideas, and relationships built along the way made every mile worthwhile.

One theme stood out throughout the month: people across our industry are finding practical ways to make a difference. From innovative stream restoration and stormwater solutions to aquifer recharge strategies and feasibility studies, the work happening across our region is creating measurable impact.

Seeing our clients, partners, and ISG team members share ideas, solve challenges, and move projects forward is a reminder of why these connections matter. They strengthen communities, advance stewardship, and inspire what comes next.

A Note From Julie Blackburn, CFM
The photo above was taken at the annual board workshop for the America's Watershed Initiative (AWI) in New Orleans. AWI has been generating positive momentum across the Mississippi River Basin, and many may have recently heard from its executive director during the plenary session at the Minnesota Water Resources Conference.

My involvement with AWI has connected me with leaders from across the watershed who are tackling many of the same challenges and opportunities we see in our communities every day. As I prepare to step into the role of vice chair/secretary of the AWI Board, I am encouraged by the collaboration, innovation, and shared commitment to stewardship happening throughout our industry.

If you have a water-related challenge, opportunity, or idea you'd like to discuss, I'd love to connect.