Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund

The Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund is administered by the Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development and reviewed by the Fish and Wildlife Committee (FWC), which advises the County Board of Supervisors. The fund is supported entirely through fine revenues collected from violations of fish and game laws within the county. The program is designed to reinvest those funds into projects that directly benefit local fish and wildlife resources, ensuring that enforcement penalties contribute to conservation, education, and habitat improvement efforts within Contra Costa County. The primary purpose of this grant program is to support projects that align with Section 13103 of the California Fish and Game Code. Eligible activities include habitat improvement, scientific research, public education, conservation of threatened and endangered species, and efforts to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts. Additional priority is given to projects that enhance collaboration with law enforcement and community organizations, especially those that improve awareness of fish and game laws among diverse or underserved populations. Projects that include multilingual education materials or signage are encouraged. Funding is generally intended for one-time project expenses rather than ongoing operational costs. The Committee typically avoids funding overhead expenses such as salaries, utilities, or administrative costs, and instead prioritizes tangible materials, equipment, or direct project implementation costs. Construction-related projects may be eligible but must comply with California public works requirements, including prevailing wage and contractor registration rules. Funding is distributed on a reimbursement basis, meaning recipients must incur costs before receiving payment, although a limited advance payment option of up to 50 percent is available for organizations that demonstrate financial hardship. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, schools, and government agencies. Applicants must demonstrate that their project meets one or more categories under Section 13103 and must provide detailed documentation including a project description, schedule, itemized budget, organizational background, and evidence of qualifications. Projects must be completed within 18 months of executing a grant agreement with the County. Certain project types require pre-review by staff prior to submission to confirm eligibility with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The application process requires submission of a complete proposal by the stated deadline, including a signed cover page and all required supporting materials. Applications must be submitted either electronically or by mail and must be received by the deadline to be considered. The Fish and Wildlife Committee reviews applications and makes funding recommendations to the Board of Supervisors, which retains final approval authority. Applicants are notified of award decisions after Board review, typically several months after submission. The timeline for this funding cycle includes a required pre-review submission for certain project types by late June, followed by a final application deadline in late July. Award notifications are expected in January of the following year, with project implementation beginning shortly thereafter once agreements are executed. The program does not guarantee recurring funding, and applicants should not assume multi-year support. Overall, the grant emphasizes accountability, measurable outcomes, and direct benefit to local ecological systems within Contra Costa County.

Prioritize direct project costs over overhead; clearly demonstrate alignment with Fish and Game Code Section 13103; emphasize measurable conservation impact; ensure complete and compliant submission