Waterways Program Grants

Program information

DNR Waterways Program Grants provide funding for engineering studies and infrastructure improvements projects at grant-in-aid harbors and public boating access sites. Local units of government (city, village, township and county) and state colleges and universities are eligible to apply.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include local units of government (city, village, township and county) and state colleges and universities. Local units and universities may cooperate with sports/community organizations in the implementation of projects.

Large projects require a completed preliminary engineering study and permit approval prior to grant consideration.

Grant funding

For FY2025, the Michigan Legislature appropriated approximately $3.5 million for Waterways Program Grants.

• Grant funding requires a 50% match of the estimated project cost.
• Grant requests that include more than a 50% applicant fund match will be given additional preference.
• An applicant fund match can include well-documented in-kind expenses.
• Applicants not able to provide the 50% match, but can demonstrate a "qualified need" can still apply.
• For additional information on a "qualified need," reach out to the program contact.

Application process

• Submit application form.
• DNR staff conducts a technical review.
• Grants are awarded based on department review, prioritization and funding appropriation.

Deadline - April 1

All applications and supporting documents are due April 1 by 5 p.m. If that date falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the deadline is the following Monday.

Additional project criteria for harbor development applicants

Applicants submitting a Waterways Grant Program Application and select "Harbor" (not boating access sites) as the project type, must submit:

• An approved Harbor/Marina Facilities 5-Year Recreation Plan (or amendment to the existing 5-year plan) through Grants Management that includes:
  1. A description of recreational plan elements such as facility size, marketing/events/partnering plans, dredging needs, dredging cycles (how often), dredge volume and dredge disposal location.
  2. A brief description of infrastructure replacement schedules, annual maintenance schedules and replacement or habilitation schedules of large investments like docks, buildings, etc.
  3. 5-year recreation plans must be be approved by grants management staff by the February 1 deadline.
• Last three years of harbor traffic (harbor logs).
• Last three years of financial summaries for the harbor.