The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Alaska Aquatic Resource Management program, funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), is offering grants to support projects that manage and restore aquatic resources in Alaska. This funding opportunity, identified as L25AS00115, invites proposals aimed at protecting, restoring, and ensuring the health of riparian and wetland areas, aquatic habitats, and water resources to provide sustainable ecosystems. Emphasis is placed on diverse uses, including habitat for fish and wildlife, with a commitment to long-term environmental health and resilience. The program prioritizes conservation initiatives that address issues such as habitat degradation, drought resilience, and aquatic invasive species. The funding provided through this program advances the Department of the Interior’s mission to address climate change, foster environmental justice, and promote sustainable ecosystems.

Projects funded under this program must align with the program's objectives and address one or more of the following priorities: ecosystem restoration, water quality and availability, and habitat protection for riparian, wetland, and aquatic species. Eligible project activities may include restoring habitat connectivity, combating climate-related impacts on aquatic resources, advancing ecological monitoring tools, and preventing the spread of invasive species. Additionally, the program promotes public education and outreach, particularly engaging communities of color, low-income families, and Indigenous communities. Awardees will work closely with BLM, which will have substantial involvement in project oversight, including collaboration in project planning, evaluation, and potential adjustments as needed.

Funding for the program totals $500,000, with expected awards ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 per project. BLM anticipates awarding up to six grants under this opportunity. Projects may have a duration of up to five years, beginning as early as September 1, 2025, with a completion date no later than August 31, 2030. There is no cost-sharing requirement, and indirect costs are capped according to BLM and Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units (CESU) program limits. Eligible applicants include state, county, and local governments; federally recognized tribal governments and tribal organizations; public and private higher education institutions; and certain nonprofit organizations. Individuals and for-profit organizations are not eligible to apply.

Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov and include a project narrative, budget narrative, and required forms, such as SF-424 and SF-424A, among others. The project narrative should be no more than 15 pages, covering project objectives, methods, stakeholder involvement, environmental compliance, and an evaluation plan. Budget narratives must justify the allocation of funds, ensuring that costs are reasonable, allowable, and necessary for project success. If applicable, applicants may need to submit additional documentation, such as conflict of interest disclosures or support letters.

Proposals will undergo an eligibility review to ensure compliance with application guidelines, followed by a merit review based on criteria such as project relevance, public benefit, technical approach, and applicant qualifications. Proposals that demonstrate effective leveraging of resources and partnerships will be prioritized in cases of equally scored applications. Applicants may also undergo a risk assessment, where past performance, financial integrity, and administrative capabilities are evaluated to mitigate potential risks.

Award notifications will be sent via email, and the recipients must adhere to the terms outlined in the Notice of Federal Award, which includes reporting obligations. Recipients are required to submit both financial and program performance reports and comply with other administrative and policy requirements, including Buy America provisions for infrastructure projects and geospatial data standards. Additional reporting includes financial and programmatic status updates, real property tracking (if applicable), and conflict-of-interest disclosures.

This funding opportunity reflects BLM’s commitment to sustainable resource management, community engagement, and collaborative conservation efforts to protect Alaska's vital aquatic ecosystems.