F25AS00282 National Fish Passage Program FY25

The National Fish Passage Program (NFPP), administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the U.S. Department of the Interior, is a longstanding, voluntary initiative that delivers technical and financial support to diverse partners with the shared goal of restoring aquatic connectivity. The program specifically targets the removal or modification of instream barriers—such as outdated dams, undersized culverts, and other structures—that disrupt natural water flows and fish migration. By doing so, NFPP directly contributes to the health and sustainability of native fish populations, enhances habitat quality, reduces flood risks, and promotes resilient infrastructure in communities across the United States. Operated through local field offices nationwide, the program is grounded in science-based decision-making and emphasizes community collaboration in selecting and implementing projects. NFPP funds a variety of activities including dam removals, culvert replacements, floodplain restoration, and the installation of fishways, which together support fluvial and tidal processes necessary for aquatic species' lifecycle needs. Beyond ecological benefits, these projects deliver community-level impacts, such as improved public safety, bolstered recreational access, and infrastructure modernization. The economic multiplier effect of NFPP investment is significant, with every $1 million invested generating approximately $1.5 million in economic value. Projects must not serve as compensatory mitigation for regulatory requirements or be part of mitigation banks or in-lieu fee programs, nor may they involve construction at FERC-licensed facilities. The program is open to a wide array of eligible applicants, including state, tribal, and local governments, school districts, higher education institutions, nonprofits, small businesses, and individuals. Coordination with NFPP regional and local staff is a prerequisite for submission. Applications must be invited before submission and are evaluated on a rolling basis. While the official closing date for applications is January 30, 2026, earlier regional deadlines may apply. Stakeholders are strongly encouraged to engage with NFPP staff throughout the year to discuss priorities and ensure eligibility. Applications must include key documents such as the SF-424 form, budget forms (SF-424A or SF-424C), project narratives, budget justifications, lobbying disclosures (if applicable), and project abstract summaries. A project narrative should address location, need, conservation objectives, timeline, stakeholder involvement, and post-project monitoring. Budget narratives must specify all anticipated costs and disclose any overlap with other federally funded efforts. Indirect costs may be charged using either a negotiated rate or the 15% de minimis rate. SAM.gov registration is required unless applicants meet specific criteria qualifying them for simplified procedures. Applications are reviewed based on eligibility, merit, and risk. High-ranking proposals will demonstrate ecological impact, long-term fish passage solutions, and community benefits. Preference may be given to projects with matching partner contributions, though no cost sharing is formally required. Notifications of award are expected by May 2026, with funded projects beginning as early as May 1, 2025, and ending no later than May 1, 2030. Grant awards are made through cooperative agreements, grants, or other federally authorized mechanisms, with federal staff often playing a significant role in project implementation and oversight. The program is recurring and applications are accepted annually, with continued funding subject to appropriations. The estimated total program funding is $10 million for the FY25 cycle, and up to 100 awards may be granted. Applicants may request up to $1,000,000, with no required minimum, though projects must meet programmatic criteria. Award notices will be issued via GrantSolutions, and all funded entities must adhere to federal reporting and compliance standards, including financial, performance, and conflict of interest reporting. Contact Thomas McCann at [email protected] for national inquiries, or reach out to regional NFPP coordinators for localized guidance.

Coordinate with NFPP staff before submitting; emphasize long-term fish passage benefits; avoid mitigation projects tied to regulation.