Fisheries Habitat Grant Program

The Fisheries Habitat Grant, administered by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, provides state funding to support a range of activities that benefit fisheries, aquatic resources, and the public. Established under Part 5 of Act 451, P.A. 1994, as amended, and funded through annual appropriations from the Game and Fish Protection Fund, State of Michigan general fund, and the Game and Fish Settlement Fund, the program seeks to conserve and restore fish habitat, manage and remove dams, and improve public access for recreational fishing. The primary objective of the grant is to address the root causes of habitat degradation rather than merely treating symptoms. Grant priorities include long-lasting habitat conservation, cost-effective and scientifically appropriate restoration methods, dam management that protects public health and safety, and monitoring outcomes. Projects that appear on the Michigan DNR’s Priority Habitat Conservation Projects List may receive preference. Applicants are strongly encouraged to consult with DNR staff to confirm project eligibility and alignment with state conservation goals. Eligible applicants include local, state, federal, and tribal governmental units, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations. Proposals must demonstrate at least a 10 percent non-state match and may request between $25,000 and $1.6 million per award. There is no specified limit on the number of awards, and total program funding amounts vary annually. The application process begins with consultation with DNR staff, submission of a pre-proposal by October 4, 2024, followed by invitation-only full applications due January 10, 2025, via the MiGrants online system. Project periods run for one and a half years, covering two construction seasons, and may be extended upon request. Awards are announced by approximately May 2025. Applicants should prepare detailed project descriptions that identify specific restoration or management activities, budget justifications, matching funds commitments, and monitoring plans. Although there are no formal questions published in advance, pre-proposals should address project objectives, methods, expected outcomes, and alignment with priority habitats. Early engagement with DNR staff is recommended to ensure coherent and competitive proposals. For further information or to discuss project ideas, contact Fisheries Division staff member Joe Nohner at 517-284-6236. Final decisions on grant awards rest with the DNR director.

Consult with DNR staff early to align projects with priority list and confirm eligibility.