In an effort to further involve citizens in the preservation of the state’s wildlife and fishing resources, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is accepting grant applications for volunteer projects. The projects are intended to enhance the state’s natural areas and the public’s enjoyment of them. WDFW plans to allocate about $867,000 available for projects occurring between July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2021. The funds come through the state’s Aquatic Land Enhancement Account (ALEA).
The grants are intended to fund five major types of projects, although other project types will be considered. Project types include habitat restoration, scientific research/citizen science, public education and outreach, facility development, and artificial fish production. Because the grants are intended to increase public participation, for-profit businesses and government agencies are not eligible. Those eligible include individual citizens, scientific researchers, citizen scientists, schools including universities, tribes, and political subdivisions of the state like conservation districts.
Grants cannot be used for wages, staff salaries, or benefits. Grantees are required to follow state purchasing rules and report progress quarterly. The WDFW will begin accepting applications December 1, so if you or someone you know is interested, apply at
wdfw.wa.gov/grants/alea.
