Description
The National Culvert Removal, Replacement, and Restoration Grant Program (Culvert Aquatic Organism Passage (AOP) Program) is a multi-year funding opportunity for applicants to submit projects for the replacement, removal, and repair of culverts or weirs that would meaningfully improve or restore fish passage for anadromous fish. The program is open to states, units of local government, and Indian Tribes. The primary objective of the program is to improve or restore anadromous fish passage through the replacement, removal, or repair of culverts or weirs. Some key aspects of the program include:
* The program will distribute up to $784 million over FYs 2023-2026, with at least $196 million distributed each year.
* Eligible projects include culverts and weirs with a transportation nexus that pose barriers to anadromous fish.
* The program requires a cost-share, with an 80% federal share for grants to states or units of local government and a 100% federal share for grants to Indian Tribes.
* Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov.
* The program has a competitive selection process, with evaluations based on factors such as conservation benefits, regional and watershed context, ecosystem benefits, project design, and climate change resilience.