The Quagga and Zebra Mussel Infestation Prevention Grant Program is administered by the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW). This grant program is designed to support reservoir owners and managers in California in preventing the introduction and spread of dreissenid mussels (quagga and zebra mussels) in freshwater bodies. The program provides funding for assessment, monitoring, and implementation of prevention measures that align with California’s Fish and Game Code, Section 2302. The primary goal is to protect the state’s water delivery system, agricultural industry, and recreational activities from potential damage caused by invasive mussel species.
The 2025 grant cycle was officially announced in February 2025, with a grant presentation scheduled for March 13, 2025. The program funds two types of projects: Tier 1 (Planning/Assessment) and Tier 2 (Implementation). Eligible activities under these categories include monitoring reservoir vulnerability, visitor and equipment tracking, public education, decontamination procedures, and regulatory compliance efforts. Grant applicants are expected to design and implement comprehensive prevention programs that include public outreach, active monitoring, and management of boating and fishing activities.
Funding priorities are given to regional-scale prevention plans that assess vulnerabilities and implement proactive measures to reduce infestation risks. Applicants must demonstrate a well-structured prevention strategy that includes education campaigns, mussel monitoring, and management of watercraft activities. Examples of eligible projects include the installation of signage, inspection stations, vessel banding programs, and decontamination facilities.
The application period for the 2025 QZ Grant opens in early March 2025 and closes on April 7, 2025, at 5:00 PM PST. Submissions must be completed through the Online Grant Application (OLGA) portal, and applicants can access detailed guidelines, instructional videos, and required templates on the official grant website. A QZ Grant Webinar for new applicants is available to provide guidance on the application process.
For further information, applicants can contact the QZ Grant Program team at QZGrant@parks.ca.gov or reach out to key staff members, including Timothy Giles (916-860-4972, Timothy.Giles@parks.ca.gov) and Michael Rodriguez (916-204-4735, Michael.Rodriguez@parks.ca.gov).
