The Reservoir Fisheries Habitat Partnership (RFHP) and the National Fish Habitat Partnership (NFHP) announce that applications for the large grant program to enhance reservoir fisheries habitat is now open. Changes to the program will be evident this year due to the passage of the America's Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Act in fall 2021. ACE will provide additional projects for "on-the-ground" habitat restoration efforts but will also make changes to project eligibility requirements. The most notable of these is that Congress is requiring a 1:1 non-federal match for funds received through RFHP and NFHP. ACE also puts increased emphasis on sport fishing and recreation and the economic benefits to local communities received through these activities. Increase emphasis will be put on outreach and project monitoring to ensure that project goals and objectives are realized. RFHP is anticipating funding 5-8 projects in the $10,000-$75,000 range for FY2022.

The application process is condensed for FY2022 to meet the deadlines outlined in ACE. Grant applications are due May 1, 2021. Applicants should review the Request for Proposals prior to submitting their application. Applicants are also encourage to discuss their project ideas with the Coordinator (jboxrucker@sbcglobal.net) prior to submitting their application. Applications must be submitted through the on-line application form.