Deadline: June 30th, 2011, 4:00 PM local time

The National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program provides states with financial assistance to protect and restore these valuable resources. Funding is provided by Sport Fish Restoration Act revenue – money generated from an excise tax on fishing equipment, motorboat and small engine fuels. Projects can include (1) acquisition of a real property interest (e.g., conservation easement or fee title) in coastal lands or waters (coastal wetlands ecosystems) from willing sellers or partners for long-term conservation or (2) restoration, enhancement, or management of coastal wetlands ecosystems. All projects must ensure long-term conservation. Examples of restoration efforts that could be funded include:
• Restoring wetland hydrology by plugging drainage ditches, breaking tile drainage systems, installing water control structures, dike construction, or re-establishing historic connections with waterways, or
• Planting native vegetation and/or removing invasive plants and animals that compete with native fish and wildlife and alter native habitats.

The Fish and Wildlife Service expects that approximately $17.5 million will be available for grants from the Program in FY 2012. Awards typically range from $200,000 (there is no specific minimum) to a maximum of $1,000,000. Applicants are encouraged to seek their assistance in the evaluation of potential projects and development of proposals, and to contact them well in advance of the due date for such assistance. Specifically, if you’d like assistance with review of a draft proposal, they request that you submit drafts no later than May 26.

Hard copy applications are due to the Regional Fish and Wildlife Service WSFR Office by June 30, 2011, 4:00 p.m. local time. Electronic applications submitted through Grants.gov will be accepted up until June 30, 2011, 11:59 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. It is recommended that electronic applications be submitted through Grants.gov at least two days before the deadline to allow for any unforeseen technical complications.

For questions or assistance, please contact:
Colleen Sculley, Grants Specialist
Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program
(413) 253-8509