H2Ohio Healthy Rivers Livery Grant

The H2Ohio Healthy Rivers Livery Grant is a state-funded initiative administered through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources as part of the broader H2Ohio program, which focuses on improving water quality and supporting conservation efforts across the state. This specific grant program is designed to engage canoe and kayak livery operators as frontline stewards of Ohio’s rivers and streams. Recognizing that these businesses spend significant time on waterways and are familiar with localized environmental challenges, the program empowers them to lead and expand river cleanup activities that might otherwise exceed their operational capacity. The primary purpose of the grant is to support the removal of trash and debris from rivers and streams throughout Ohio, addressing both ongoing litter issues and long-standing accumulation of waste. The program provides financial assistance of up to 10,000 dollars per award to cover costs directly associated with cleanup initiatives. These efforts are intended to enhance water quality, improve recreational experiences, and contribute to broader environmental restoration goals under the H2Ohio initiative. All funded activities and any associated cost share contributions must take place within the defined program period, specifically during the 2026 calendar year. Eligible expenditures under the program include a range of tools and operational supports necessary for effective cleanup events. These include items such as litter grabbers, bags, shovels, prybars, gloves, dumpsters and associated disposal fees, and costs related to handling large or specialized waste. Additional allowable expenses include advertising and promotional efforts to increase participation, rental of facilities or sanitation equipment, and certain participant incentives within defined limits. However, the program restricts funding for operational business costs, wages, fuel, infrastructure, and unrelated entertainment or attraction expenses, ensuring that funds are tightly focused on environmental cleanup outcomes. Eligibility for the grant is limited to canoe or kayak liveries that are officially registered with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Parks and Watercraft division and are in good standing with the Ohio Secretary of State. Applicants must demonstrate a clear understanding of their local river cleanup needs and propose projects that maximize environmental impact, including the number of river miles addressed. Strong applications are expected to include realistic timelines, detailed budgets, and evidence of collaboration with partners to expand program reach. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to include a cost share component exceeding 25 percent to strengthen their proposals. The application process is conducted through an online portal, where submissions are reviewed, potentially revised, and ultimately awarded. Applications open in March, with an initial review deadline of April 10. Applicants submitting by this date receive priority consideration, with award notifications expected in early May. After April 10, applications are accepted on a rolling basis until May 1 or until all available funds are allocated. Selected recipients must complete administrative requirements, including registration with Ohio Pays, submission of a W-9 form, and authorization for direct deposit of funds. Evaluation of applications is based on several criteria, including the anticipated environmental impact, feasibility of the proposed approach, completeness of the budget, and alignment with eligible cost guidelines. The program also values partnerships and outreach efforts that increase community engagement. Following project completion, grant recipients are required to submit a final report by November 30 of the award year. This report must detail how funds were used and include measurable outcomes such as the volume of trash removed and the extent of river areas cleaned. Program oversight and support are provided by the H2Ohio Rivers Program team within the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Applicants and participants may contact the program manager, Jonathan Horn, for guidance and clarification throughout the application and implementation process. Overall, the H2Ohio Healthy Rivers Livery Grant represents a targeted investment in local environmental stewardship, leveraging the expertise and presence of livery operators to achieve meaningful improvements in Ohio’s waterways.

Demonstrate clear environmental impact; maximize river miles cleaned; include detailed budget and realistic timeline; include cost share greater than 25%; partner with organizations to expand reach