The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Colorado Aquatic Resources Program seeks proposals for its fiscal year 2025 funding opportunity aimed at protecting and restoring aquatic resources on public lands. This initiative emphasizes the conservation of riparian and wetland areas, water resources, and aquatic habitats to support ecosystems that meet diverse environmental, social, and economic needs. The program also aligns with the Department of the Interior’s priorities for addressing climate change, fostering environmental justice, and promoting sustainable resource use.

A total of $999,000 in funding is available, with individual awards ranging from $5,000 to $45,000. Up to four awards are expected to be made under this program. The scope of work includes combating climate change impacts on aquatic systems, restoring degraded habitats, advancing tools for resource monitoring, and increasing public understanding of aquatic ecosystems. Eligible projects should align with the program’s goals, such as ensuring water quality, improving water availability, and preventing invasive species. Projects must benefit the public and may integrate education and outreach, especially targeting underserved communities.

Eligible applicants include state and local governments, tribal entities, public and private higher education institutions, and nonprofit organizations. For-profit entities and individuals are ineligible. No cost-sharing is required for this funding opportunity. Applicants must ensure their projects comply with relevant federal, state, and local regulations, including environmental compliance and adherence to the Buy America preference for federally funded infrastructure projects.

Applications require registration through SAM.gov and submission via Grants.gov. The submission package must include a project narrative, budget narrative, and supporting forms such as the SF-424 series. Proposals should articulate clear objectives, methodologies, and public benefits, while demonstrating alignment with federal priorities and environmental standards. Applicants should ensure that their budgets are reasonable, necessary, and justified according to federal cost principles.

The deadline for applications is January 31, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. ET, with project start dates anticipated around August 1, 2025, and maximum durations extending to July 31, 2030. Pre-submission consultations with BLM program leads are encouraged to verify project eligibility and alignment with BLM priorities. Contact details for program officers are included in the NOFO for further assistance.

Award recipients will be subject to standard reporting requirements, including financial and performance evaluations. Projects must also incorporate mechanisms for monitoring outcomes and ensuring compliance with federal data and geospatial standards. The program supports collaborative and adaptive management approaches to safeguard aquatic resources for present and future generations.