Aquatic Nuisance Species Management Plan

The State and Interstate Aquatic Nuisance Species Management Plan Grant Program, administered by the U.S. Department of the Interior through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, provides federal funding to support state and interstate efforts to manage aquatic nuisance species (ANS) across U.S. waters. The program’s objective is to strengthen approved management plans that prevent, control, and monitor invasive aquatic species, which threaten ecosystems, water infrastructure, and local economies. This grant continues the federal commitment under the National Invasive Species Act to assist states and tribes in implementing proactive and coordinated strategies against biological invasions. Funds under this program are intended to enhance prevention and control activities, support monitoring and data collection, and expand public awareness and education about aquatic invasive species. Eligible expenditures may include projects that assess infestation risks, implement management and eradication actions, develop rapid response systems, and establish cooperative agreements among regional partners. The program prioritizes proposals that demonstrate measurable ecological outcomes, interjurisdictional collaboration, and strong adherence to existing ANS Management Plans approved by the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force. Eligibility is limited to U.S. states, territories, and Indian tribes that either have an approved ANS Management Plan or work collaboratively in an interstate capacity with others that do. Applicants must demonstrate that the proposed activities align with their approved management plan and comply with relevant federal environmental standards. This program does not require matching funds or cost sharing, allowing eligible entities to fully leverage federal investment toward aquatic ecosystem protection and resilience. Applications follow a structured process beginning with the submission of pre-proposals due September 4, 2025. Selected applicants then proceed to submit full applications through GrantSolutions.gov by November 3, 2025. The final closing date for all submissions is December 15, 2025, with the application portal opening on August 4, 2025. This extended submission window allows sufficient time for revisions and technical corrections during the review process. The Fish and Wildlife Service encourages applicants to engage early and ensure compliance with all federal submission requirements. The program operates on an annual cycle, providing recurring opportunities for states and tribes to renew or expand their management plans. Awards range from $5,000 to $150,000, depending on project scope, and total funding available for the fiscal year is approximately $4,084,000. Successful projects are typically announced within several months of the final deadline. Technical assistance for applicants is available from Donald MacLean at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service via email at don_maclean@fws.gov. Additional information and guidance are provided through the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force website, which outlines federal priorities, approved management plans, and evaluation criteria.

Submit pre-proposals early to allow feedback and corrections; ensure alignment with approved ANS Management Plan.