Boating Access: Invasive Mussel Response Grant

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is offering funding through the Boating Access: Invasive Mussel Response Grant Program to support projects aimed at preventing the introduction and spread of invasive mussels in California, particularly the recently detected golden mussel. This effort is part of a broader initiative under the Sport Fish Restoration Act, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which allocates funds derived from taxes on fishing equipment and fuel used in motorboats. The funding opportunity aligns with CDFW’s strategy to protect the state’s water infrastructure, ecosystems, and recreational resources. The purpose of the grant is to aid entities that own or operate boating facilities in enhancing their preparedness and response capacity against invasive mussel threats. Eligible projects must focus on either preventing the overland spread from infested waters or preemptively safeguarding uninfested water bodies. Examples of fundable activities include the acquisition of equipment such as high-pressure wash stations and mobile decontamination units, facility enhancements like boat ramp improvements, and training programs limited to educating staff on decontamination and inspection techniques. Eligible applicants are restricted to nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and tribal governments that manage boating facilities. For-profit entities, individuals, and organizations outside of these categories are not eligible to apply. Projects involving water bodies with or without existing mussel infestations are both considered eligible. Applicants must submit all documentation and forms via the CDFW WebGrants system, with applications due by May 23, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Pacific Time. The online portal requires registration and selection of the "Invasive Mussel Response" funding opportunity. The application process includes a detailed proposal submission, budget spreadsheet, and environmental compliance documentation. A grant workshop was held online on April 22, 2025, to provide guidance. While a signed Authorizing Resolution is not required at the time of submission, it may be requested during the grant agreement phase. Applications will be evaluated based on technical criteria including project readiness, feasibility, and regional impact. CDFW may convene an executive panel for final funding recommendations, followed by a Director-level review. Successful grantees will be notified in spring 2025, with projects expected to commence in summer 2025. Grant terms will not exceed two years. Awardees must comply with a series of grant agreement requirements, including indirect cost limitations, labor code compliance, environmental permitting, and standard state auditing practices. Notably, the program does not require a matching contribution. For general inquiries, applicants may contact CDFW’s Invasive Species Program at invasives@wildlife.ca.gov or call (866) 440-9530.

Training labor is eligible, operational staff time is not Advance payments require justification and documentation Environmental permits and NEPA/CEQA compliance must be clearly documented if applicable Applicants may bundle multiple waterbodies in one proposal