You can take advantage of a unique opportunity to receive funding between $100,000 and $1,000,000 to improve fish safety while managing your irrigation needs. This program focuses on creating and enhancing fish screens and passage systems in California, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and western Montana. By participating, you’ll contribute to protecting local fish populations and play a vital role in promoting a healthier ecosystem.

Why should you apply? This program offers non-repayable grants, which means the funding doesn’t need to be paid back. You’ll also receive expert guidance in planning and implementing your projects, including insights on habitat needs and effective methods for fish passage. Partnering on this initiative not only supports your financial goals but also bolsters your reputation as a responsible steward of local aquatic resources, benefiting both your business and the environment.

Additionally, investing in these projects lays the groundwork for sustainable practices that could enhance your operations. By taking part, you are reducing fish mortality, which can ultimately increase fish populations and create better fishing experiences for the community. It’s a win-win for your business and the ecosystems you rely on.

Type of Financing
This program offers grants ranging from $100,000 to $1,000,000. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid. However, there are certain conditions attached.

Repayment and Financial Terms
There is no repayment term or interest rate since these are grants. But, participating projects must have a 35% non-federal cost share as per Public Law 106-502. This means you will need to fund 35% of the project costs from non-federal sources. The good news is that Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) funding can count towards this required cost share.

Eligible and Ineligible Expenses
You can use the funds for projects like fish screens, fish passage devices, and related inventories in designated areas. However, funds cannot be used for costs already covered by other federal funds (except BPA funds) for the same purpose. Additionally, you will be responsible for all ongoing costs associated with the project's operation and maintenance, particularly if the project is on land not owned by the United States.

Fees Associated
There are no specific fees mentioned with this program, so you won't have any surprise costs popping up.

• Location: Projects must be located in areas that drain into the Pacific Ocean in California, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, or western Montana.
• Participation: Participation in the program must be voluntary.
• Non-Federal Cost Share: There must be a 35% Non-Federal cost share.
• Project Type: Eligible projects include voluntary irrigation diversion passage, fish screening, barrier inventories, and related features.
• Funding Exclusivity: Project components that receive funding cannot receive federal funds from any other source for the same purpose, except for BPA funds.
• Agreement: The project must be agreeable to both Federal and non-Federal entities with authority and responsibility.
• Funding Amount: The award minimum is $100,000, and the maximum is $1,000,000.
• Cost Responsibility: Non-Federal participants must cover all costs associated with operating, maintaining, repairing, rehabilitating, and replacing the project on non-Federal lands or facilities.

Disqualifications:

• None specified regarding the qualifications for participation. All legal and profit structures are applicable, and there are no minimum or maximum requirements for employees or revenue.

This program offers you the chance to receive funding between $100,000 and $1,000,000 for projects that improve fish safety while managing your irrigation needs. It focuses on creating and enhancing fish screens and passage systems in specific Pacific Ocean drainage areas, including California, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and western Montana. By participating, you can help protect local fish populations and contribute to a healthier ecosystem.

The funding is structured as a voluntary grant, which means you won’t have to pay it back, giving you the freedom to invest in your projects. However, there is a requirement for a 35% non-federal cost share, which means you will need to cover a portion of the funding on your own. This is a valuable opportunity to make a positive impact and offset some of your operating costs.

In addition, you’ll benefit from expert support in project planning and implementation. Assistance includes advice on habitat needs and methods for improving fish passage. This program not only helps your business financially but also positions you as a responsible steward of local aquatic resources.