Dam Removal Design and Implementation Block Grant

Watersheds United Vermont (WUV), in partnership with the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (VT DEC), has announced the 2025 Enhancement Dam Removal Design and Implementation Block Grant. This program is designed to support dam removal projects that align with the statutory objectives of the Water Quality Enhancement Grant program. With approximately $1,250,000 in funding available, the program seeks to support projects in the design and implementation phases, targeting activities planned for 2026 and 2027. Funding is provided through the Clean Water Initiative Program (CWIP), with WUV serving as the administrative body for this grant round. The grant program supports three project types: preliminary engineering design, final engineering design, and full implementation of dam removal. Each project type has specific deliverables and milestones, including feasibility assessments, stakeholder engagement, regulatory compliance steps, and detailed engineering plans. Final deliverables may include preliminary or final design reports, operations and maintenance plans, construction documentation, and compliance with the Vermont Division for Historic Preservation (VDHP) review process. Projects must also adhere to CWIP funding policy and be pre-approved by DEC Watershed Planners. Eligible projects must be non-regulatory in nature, meaning they cannot be compelled by any regulatory enforcement. They must also meet at least one of the five purposes defined under the Enhancement Grant program: protecting high-quality waters, maintaining or improving water quality, restoring degraded waters, fostering watershed resilience, or enhancing public use and enjoyment of the state’s waters. The eligibility screening process includes detailed evaluations such as a natural resources screening, verification of permitting requirements, and landowner commitment for the proposed project phase. Applicants must submit two main documents: a full project application and a combined file containing the Project Readiness and Eligibility Screening Form along with required supplemental attachments. These include site plans, photos, feasibility studies, bid documents, and landowner commitment letters, depending on the project phase. Submissions are to be emailed directly to WUV Director Lyn Munno and WUV Grant Manager Christian Pelletier. Applications are due by October 24, 2025. An informational webinar will be held on September 24, 2025, to provide guidance on the application process. The expected award announcement is scheduled for the end of November 2025. Projects must demonstrate alignment with CWIP goals and show feasibility, clear project need, budget adequacy, and likelihood of success. Special consideration will be given to projects protecting high-quality waters, located in underserved watersheds, or benefiting Environmental Justice Focus Populations. Applicants are encouraged to consult the 2023 CWIP Funding Policy and ensure compliance with all outlined requirements prior to applying. Questions about the grant can be directed to WUV staff. More information, including application materials and templates, is available through WUV and DEC channels.

Applicants should carefully review eligibility screens in the CWIP Funding Policy, attend the informational webinar, and contact WUV early for questions.