Community Pond Program Grants

The Community Pond Program, administered by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP), is designed to enhance local fishing access and recreational opportunities across Montana. Aimed at fostering public angling, particularly among youth and families, the program supports the construction and improvement of community-based fishing ponds. Funded through the FWP Fisheries Division, this initiative focuses on public benefit, angler education, and increasing accessibility, including for individuals with disabilities. It is structured to bolster local engagement with natural resources while enhancing the overall quality and accessibility of fishing infrastructure near populated areas. Eligible applicants include state agencies, city or county governments, civic and angler organizations, and other community-based entities. All applicants must collaborate with an FWP representative, typically a fisheries biologist, and are responsible for securing public access to the project site. Projects can be located on private land, but legal guarantees such as easements or formal agreements must ensure public access. The program explicitly prohibits the use of funds for property acquisition, focusing instead on construction, repair, or improvements to pond facilities used primarily for public angling. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $40,000 per project, and total annual funding availability fluctuates between $100,000 and $150,000. A mandatory cost-sharing requirement obligates applicants to contribute at least 30% of project costs, which may include in-kind services such as labor, materials, or equipment. However, government salaries do not qualify as match contributions. Projects must be near a community and target pond-sized water bodies, with strong consideration given to safety and ADA-compliant enhancements. Applications are accepted year-round but must be received by February 1 to be reviewed in the annual cycle, with evaluations occurring in February. Submissions must include a clearly articulated project concept and a detailed budget. Late or incomplete applications will be held for the following year. Applications may be submitted electronically via email or through the Montana state File Transfer System, or mailed directly to FWP's Fisheries Division office in Helena. Evaluation is conducted by a review panel of four FWP staff members, and final funding decisions are made by the Fisheries Division Administrator. Projects are assessed based on their alignment with program objectives, cost-effectiveness, and availability of funds. Award notifications are typically made by March 1, with funding disbursed shortly thereafter, contingent on the execution of a formal agreement. Projects must comply with Montana Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) requirements and may necessitate additional environmental permits. Applicants are expected to retain thorough records of all expenses, including matching contributions, and adhere to state procurement regulations. Photographic documentation of both project development and final completion is required. All awarded funds are strictly limited to expenses outlined in the final project agreement, and reimbursements will only be made for costs incurred after that agreement is signed.

Incomplete or late applications will not be considered; applicants must ensure public access and meet MEPA and permitting requirements.