Background
GRMW ProjectsProject Funding Opportunities
Funding assistance for those wishing to restore habitat is available from many sources. Each source will have a unique application format, due date, funding criteria and review process. The primary sources of funds are federal or state agencies, and foundations. Two of the primary funding sources used in the Grande Ronde and Imnaha subbasins are the Bonneville Power Administration Fish and Wildlife Program and the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board.
GRMW Funding
The GRMW is the primary entity in the Grande Ronde and Imnaha subbasins that coordinates the development, review, funding and implementation of habitat restoration using Bonneville Power Administration Fish and Wildlife Program mitigation funds. The GRMW annually conducts one and sometimes two project solicitation cycles. The GRMW solicitation process begins each year in early summer with the distribution of a project solicitation letter to a mailing list of prospective restoration partners.
The solicitation notice for 2008 BPA/Grande Ronde Model Watershed (GRMW) restoration project funding will be sent out by August 31, 2007. GRMW staff are available throughout the summer to provide technical assistance, or arrange for biologists to assist in the development of potential projects and funding applications. GRMW staff site visits, to review proposed on-the-ground projects, are required before submitting a proposal. Project proposals are due by October 13, 2007. If you are a landowner or organization interested in applying for Grande Ronde Model Watershed project funds, please contact Jeff Oveson for further information.
Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) Funding
The Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board grant program encourages projects that foster interagency cooperation, include other sources of funding, provide for local stakeholder involvement, include youth and volunteers, and promote learning about watershed concepts.
There are four general categories of projects eligible for OWEB funding:
- On-the-ground watershed management (restoration and acquisition).
- Assessment and/or monitoring of natural resource conditions.
- Opportunities for learning about watershed concepts (education/outreach).
- Watershed council support.
Other Sources of Funding
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) is a voluntary land retirement program that helps agricultural producers protect environmentally sensitive land, decrease erosion, restore wildlife habitat, and safeguard ground and surface water.
NOAA Fisheries Restoration Center is a community-based restoration program that partners with grassroots organizations to encourage hands-on citizen participation in restoration projects.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service natural resource assistance grants. A variety of grants are available to governmental, public and private organizations, groups and individuals.
Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN) Directory of Watershed Resources - A searchable database of funding sources.