Aquatic Invasive Plant Management Grants Program

The Aquatic Invasive Plant Management Grants Program is administered by the Washington State Department of Ecology through its Water Quality Program. The program was established by the Washington State Legislature in 1991 to address the growing environmental and economic impacts of invasive, non-native aquatic plants in freshwater systems. These plants can degrade fish and wildlife habitat, reduce biodiversity, and hinder recreational activities such as boating and fishing. The program is funded through a dedicated account supported by a fee collected from annual boat trailer registrations, reflecting the role of watercraft in spreading invasive species. The purpose of the program is to provide financial and technical assistance to public entities working to prevent, manage, or eradicate aquatic invasive plant species in lakes, rivers, and streams across Washington State. Funding supports a variety of project types, including the development of integrated aquatic vegetation management plans, implementation of control and education efforts, early infestation response projects, and applied research or pilot projects. These activities are designed to reduce the spread of invasive species and mitigate their ecological and economic impacts on freshwater systems. Eligible uses of funds include planning and implementation of vegetation management strategies, direct plant control activities, mapping and inventory of aquatic plants, public education initiatives, and monitoring or evaluation efforts. The program prioritizes projects that address high-risk invasive species, demonstrate public benefit, and show long-term sustainability. While matching funds are not required, projects that include additional financial or in-kind support may receive favorable consideration during evaluation. Eligibility for the program is limited to public entities, including cities, counties, state agencies, federally recognized tribes, and special purpose districts. Projects must generally occur in freshwater bodies with public access via boat launch facilities or designated recreational use areas. The program is not open to private individuals or nonprofit organizations as direct applicants, although they may participate as partners in eligible projects. The application process is conducted annually through the Department of Ecology’s online grants management system. For the State Fiscal Year 2027 funding cycle, the application period opened on October 15, 2025 and closed on December 16, 2025. Applications are evaluated competitively based on criteria such as project effectiveness, environmental impact, cost efficiency, and long-term benefits. After evaluation, a draft funding list is released, followed by a final funding offer list, and selected applicants enter into agreement negotiations with the agency. Grant awards vary depending on project type, with maximum funding limits of $30,000 for planning projects, $75,000 for implementation and research projects, and $50,000 for early infestation response efforts. Each grant agreement may extend for up to three years from the effective date. Successful applicants must comply with reporting requirements, including quarterly progress reports and final project documentation, and must adhere to state procurement, environmental review, and financial management standards. The program operates on a recurring annual funding cycle, with new opportunities expected each year. Although applications for the most recent cycle have closed, future funding rounds are anticipated based on legislative appropriations and program continuation. Applicants are encouraged to monitor program updates and prepare in advance for future application periods.

Ensure strong alignment with evaluation criteria including measurable outcomes, cost effectiveness, and long term sustainability; demonstrate public benefit and risk reduction of invasive species; provide clear and complete scope of work and supporting documentation