The Bureau of Reclamation is offering funding through the WaterSMART Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Projects for Fiscal Year 2025 and 2026. This funding opportunity supports projects that restore and enhance aquatic ecosystems in alignment with WaterSMART goals. The program focuses on improving ecological health, enhancing aquatic habitat, and increasing resilience to climate-related water challenges. It aims to provide financial support to entities working on habitat restoration, including river and wetland rehabilitation, streamflow enhancement, and similar conservation efforts.

The primary purpose of this grant is to support projects that restore aquatic ecosystems, benefiting both the environment and communities that rely on these water sources. The program seeks to promote sustainable water management and ecological resilience by funding initiatives that mitigate environmental degradation and contribute to long-term conservation efforts. It emphasizes collaboration between public and private organizations to implement effective restoration projects.

Funding for this opportunity is offered through both cooperative agreements and grants, with an estimated total program funding of $95 million. Individual awards will range between $500,000 and $10 million, and up to 20 awards are expected to be distributed. A cost-sharing or matching funds requirement is in place, ensuring that applicants contribute financially to the proposed projects.

Eligible applicants fall under the "Others" category, with additional clarification needed to determine the specific organizations that can apply. However, past opportunities under the WaterSMART initiative have typically supported nonprofit organizations, governmental entities, and tribal organizations involved in conservation and restoration efforts.

The grant application period is currently paused and under review, with an updated closing date of April 15, 2025. Electronically submitted applications must be received by 4:00 p.m. Mountain Time on the closing date. The funding opportunity was originally posted on December 10, 2024, with a prior application deadline of February 17, 2026, before being updated.

Potential applicants are encouraged to monitor updates from the Bureau of Reclamation regarding changes to eligibility criteria, submission requirements, and evaluation criteria. For additional details or application guidance, applicants may contact Alisha James at bor-sha-fafoa@usbr.gov.