Salmon Recovery through Local Planning Grants

The Washington State Department of Commerce is offering Salmon Recovery through Local Planning Grants to support comprehensive planning efforts that align with salmon habitat protection and restoration. This funding opportunity, available through the Growth Management Services division, is designed to assist local governments and federally recognized tribes in integrating ecosystem recovery priorities into their land use planning frameworks. The goal of the program is to strengthen alignment between local comprehensive plans and the objectives of salmon recovery, particularly in the context of the state's Growth Management Act (GMA). Grant funding may be used to update comprehensive plans, critical area ordinances, and development regulations with a focus on enhancing ecosystem resilience, improving water quality, and restoring critical salmon habitat. Projects may include inventory work, data integration, policy development, coordination with regional salmon recovery organizations, and public engagement that centers on equity and climate resilience. The 2025–2027 grant cycle provides approximately $3 million in total funding. Grants will be awarded competitively, and applicants must demonstrate how proposed projects support salmon recovery planning goals, fill documented gaps in current planning processes, and improve alignment with regional recovery plans. Eligible applicants include cities and counties that are fully or partially planning under the GMA, as well as all federally recognized tribes within Washington State. Applications are due by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, November 17, 2025. All submissions must be completed via the Smartsheet intake form. Applicants are encouraged to review the grant guidelines and FAQ documents in advance. While attendance at the pre-application workshops is not required, Commerce will offer two virtual sessions on October 1, 2025—one at 10:00 a.m. for all applicants and a separate session at 11:00 a.m. specifically for tribal applicants. Successful applicants will enter into a contract beginning in early 2026, with the grant period extending through June 30, 2027. Award recipients must adhere to Commerce’s contracting requirements, including financial reporting, reimbursement documentation, and progress updates. Grant funds are reimbursed quarterly based on eligible expenses. Up to 10% of the total award may be used for indirect costs unless the grantee has a federally negotiated indirect rate, in which case that rate will apply. For assistance during the application process, interested parties are encouraged to contact the Ecosystem Team at Growth Management Services by reaching out to Angela San Filippo. Additional resources and updates are available on the Department of Commerce's Ecosystem Planning webpage.

Attend the pre-application workshop and coordinate early with regional salmon recovery organizations. Emphasize how your plan supports climate resilience and equity.