NOAA’s Restoring Fish Passage through Barrier Removal Grants (NOAA-NMFS-HCPO-2025-29043) aims to enhance fish migration and promote resilient ecosystems by funding dam and in-stream barrier removal projects. The program supports local initiatives to improve passage for migratory and sea-run fish species, targeting projects that bolster sustainable fisheries, aid in the recovery of threatened species, enhance watershed health, and foster economic and ecological resilience, particularly in underserved communities. This funding opportunity is administered by NOAA’s Community-Based Restoration Program under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Bipartisan Infrastructure Law).

The program’s key objectives include benefiting migratory fish populations, improving resilience to climate hazards, restoring priority habitats within defined geographic areas, and providing assistance to tribal, indigenous, and underserved communities. Projects may encompass feasibility studies, engineering, and community engagement, alongside direct fish passage restoration activities. For funding consideration, applications must align with these priorities and propose projects with a high likelihood of completion within a 2-3 year timeframe. Preference will be given to projects that emphasize the physical removal of barriers over the installation of maintenance-intensive structures like fish ladders.

Eligible applicants include U.S. state, local, and tribal governments, higher education institutions, non-profits, and commercial organizations working within the Great Lakes basin, U.S. territories, or other regions benefiting U.S. migratory fish species. The program does not require cost-sharing but encourages applicants to leverage additional funding sources to strengthen their applications. Awards will range from $750,000 to $8 million, with NOAA anticipating most grants to be between $3 million and $5 million, funded through cooperative agreements that include substantial NOAA involvement.

Applications must be submitted by February 10, 2025, and require multiple federal system registrations (SAM, Grants.gov, eRA Commons). Key submission materials include the SF-424 forms, a project summary, narrative, budget narrative, and supplemental documents, adhering to specific format guidelines and a 75-page limit. Applicants should ensure alignment with NOAA’s evaluation criteria, including demonstrating technical merit, clear budget alignment, and inclusive community outreach.

Evaluation criteria focus on the program’s priorities, technical soundness, applicant qualifications, budget detail, and community engagement. Successful applications will clearly define project benefits for fish populations, resilience to climate hazards, and contributions to underserved communities. Proposals are assessed for feasibility, monitoring plans, sustainability, and effective community partnerships. NOAA may convene a review panel to select top proposals based on their overall merit and alignment with program goals, with funding awards anticipated to start by January 1, 2026.

For further information, applicants are encouraged to consult NOAA’s guidance and discuss project ideas with the NOAA Restoration Center before applying.