Fisheries Restoration Grant Program (2025)

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has announced the 2025 Fisheries Restoration Grant Program (FRGP) Proposal Solicitation Notice (PSN). This grant program aims to support habitat restoration projects that contribute to the conservation and enhancement of fish populations, with a specific focus on anadromous fish species in California. The solicitation includes a two-phase application process: an optional concept proposal phase from January 21, 2025, to March 3, 2025, and a full application phase from March 4, 2025, to April 17, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. The primary objective of the FRGP is to fund restoration projects that improve fish habitats, support the recovery of threatened and endangered species, and contribute to the overall ecological health of California’s waterways. Eligible projects may include in-stream habitat restoration, fish passage improvement, riparian habitat enhancement, and water conservation efforts. The grant also supports efforts that mitigate negative environmental impacts and promote sustainable fisheries management practices. The program’s funding scope is designed to prioritize projects that align with CDFW’s conservation strategies, including work in focus watersheds identified in the program guidelines. The FRGP Focus Tools map serves as a resource to help applicants identify suitable project locations. However, final determinations regarding project focus areas will be made based on the Focus Table in Part III of the PSN. Eligibility for the FRGP includes various entities such as nonprofit organizations, state and local governmental agencies, tribes, and other conservation-focused organizations. All applicants must submit their proposals through WebGrants, ensuring compliance with CDFW’s guidelines. To support applicants, CDFW will hold an online workshop on February 6, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to provide guidance on the solicitation process. The application process consists of two key phases: an optional concept proposal phase, which allows applicants to receive feedback before submitting a full proposal, and the full proposal phase, which requires detailed project plans and budget justifications. Application materials, including the 2025 PSN, guidelines, and frequently asked questions, should be reviewed thoroughly to ensure compliance with program requirements. Proposals will be evaluated based on criteria outlined in the PSN, including the ecological benefits of the project, feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with program priorities. Applicants should also consider consulting regional contacts to verify project location eligibility and ensure compliance with focus watershed requirements. Interested applicants are encouraged to subscribe to CDFW’s email notifications for updates on grant opportunities. For further inquiries, applicants may contact the Watershed Restoration Grants Branch at WatershedGrants@wildlife.ca.gov.