The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks Boating Access Program is a grant opportunity available to Municipal, County, and other governmental entities in Mississippi. The program aims to develop or improve boating access facilities on public lakes or rivers. Projects can include the construction or enhancement of courtesy piers, boat launching ramps, fish cleaning stations, bathrooms, and parking lots.

Funding for this program comes from the Sport Fish Restoration, Federal Aid Program. The program operates on a 75/25 match basis, where the grant recipient must fund at least 25% of the total project cost. The State Boating Access Program receives funding from the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act, which is derived from federal gasoline tax and excise tax on fishing tackle and trolling motors sales.

To be eligible for this grant opportunity, applicants must have full rights to possess and use the site for a minimum of 25 years. The facility developed or improved with the grant funds must be open to the general public without any user fees charged. Applicants must also comply with Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines. The application deadline for this grant opportunity is May 1st of each year.

For more information and to submit applications, interested parties can contact MDWFP/Boating Access Program at 1505 Eastover Dr., Jackson, MS 39211 or call (601) 432-2200.