The Piscataqua Region Estuaries Partnership (PREP) is accepting applications for its 2025-2026 PREPA Grant Program, aimed at supporting municipalities and watershed organizations in the Piscataqua Region Watershed, covering parts of New Hampshire and Maine. The program provides financial assistance to projects that enhance natural resource protection, water quality improvement, and climate adaptation efforts. Funded through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, a total of $100,000 is available for distribution, with individual grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000.

Eligible applicants include municipalities within the Piscataqua Region Watershed and watershed organizations partnering with municipalities. The funding supports projects that align with the recommended actions outlined in the Piscataqua Region Environmental Planning Assessment (PREPA), including initiatives related to planning, regulatory updates, community outreach, and climate resilience strategies. A requirement for all projects is that at least 20% of the awarded funds must be allocated toward community engagement activities.

The grant application process follows a structured timeline. The Request for Proposals (RFP) was released on November 1, 2024, and municipal officials and stakeholders have from November 2024 to March 2025 to develop and finalize project proposals. An informational webinar was held on January 15, 2025, to assist applicants in understanding the grant’s objectives and application process. Additionally, office hours will be held in February and March 2025 to provide further support. The final proposal submission deadline is March 31, 2025, at 4:00 PM EST.

To apply, applicants must submit a proposal narrative and a completed budget and signatures form via email to Abigail Lyon, the PREP Community Engagement Manager. Applications must be submitted in PDF format, and faxed or mailed proposals will not be accepted. Following submission, proposals will undergo a review process in April 2025, with award notifications expected by May 2, 2025. Awarded projects are expected to commence by August 1, 2025, and must be completed by December 18, 2026.

PREP encourages project ideas related to shoreland protection, freshwater wetlands conservation, stormwater management, climate adaptation, and other environmental initiatives. Budgeting guidance is provided to help applicants develop realistic financial plans. The organization also offers access to data from the PREPA Assessment to help applicants align their proposals with regional environmental goals.

For assistance with the application process or general inquiries, applicants can contact Abigail Lyon at (603) 862-3729 or via email at Abigail.Lyon@unh.edu. Additional information, including access to the PREPA Assessment data and project inspiration, can be found on the PREP website.