Michigan DNR’s Dam Management Grant Program now accepting proposals

Lansing, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced its Dam Management Grant Program is now open for proposals. The fifth year of this grant opportunity will provide $3.35 million in Fiscal Year 2017 to address Michigan’s failing dam infrastructure through the funding of dam removals and critical repair/maintenance.

The Dam Management Grant Program is focused on the growing issue of abandoned, unused or hazardous dams in Michigan. The purpose of the program is to provide funding and technical assistance to local and state units of government, nonprofit groups and individuals to manage dam removals or repair/major maintenance projects that will enhance aquatic resources and fishing opportunities, as well as reduce infrastructure costs and improve public safety in Michigan.

There were six recipients in the program’s first year, when $2.35 million was granted; three recipients during its second year, when $350,000 was available; four recipients during its third year, when $350,000 was available; and two recipients during its fourth year, when $350,000 was available.

Again this year there will be an online application process for prospective applicants. Interested parties will have to register with MiRecGrants and then complete and submit their application once their registration has been approved by DNR Grants Management. MiRecGrants can be accessed at Michigan.gov/dnr-grants.

Information on the Dam Management Grant Program can be found at Michigan.gov/dnr-grants. Grant applications can be submitted through the MiRecGrants online application system until 3 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11, to be considered for this year’s funding cycle.