Iowa DNR grants facilitate snowmobile trails, as well as other recreational activities.
As of May 2010, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) administers a host of programs and grants designed to fund wildlife habitats and an array of recreation development as well as the associated land acquisitions. Eligibility and funding for Iowa DNR grants differ for each project.
Snowmobile Trail Grant Program
Counties, cities or incorporated private entities may apply for a grant to develop snowmobile trails. Iowa DNR uses state vehicle registration fees to fund these grants. If awarded, grant funds can be used for storage expenses, costs associated with operating and maintaining trail grooming equipment, such as gas and repairs, and a host of trail development expenses including materials for fencing, gates and bridges.
Fish Habitat Program
Iowa county conservation boards endeavoring to develop fish habitats are eligible to apply for the state's DNR Fish Habitat Program. Grant funds may be used to fund up to 90 percent of costs associated with a long list of activities including but not limited to: physically placing fish habitats in ponds, lakes, pits and streams; aeration systems; pond or lake dredging; construction of sediment retaining basins; lake dam and outlet repair; dam removal; and construction of fish ladders and barriers. Grantees may also use grant funds for land acquisitions that facilitate pond and lake construction, watershed protection and fishing areas.
Applications for the annual Fish Habitat Program are due in November. In May 2010, the state's website indicated that $70,000 was available for the current grant cycle.
River Program Grants
In an effort to promote safe and enjoyable paddling for canoeists and kayakers, the Iowa DNR administers grants for funding warning signage for dams and portage trails, as well as the development of new trails. Grantees may also use the funding for brochures that highlight the associated area's cultural, historic and natural amenities.
The Low-Head Dam Hazard program may fund 50 to 80 percent of some waterway safety projects. Any Iowa dam owner may apply. Warning signage programs are designated as small (requests up to $20,000), medium ($20,001 to $50,000) and large (over $50,000). Grantees may use the grant funds for warning signage as well as projects that remove hazardous structures and dams, particularly those that might impede portage trails.
In addition, the Iowa Water Trails Grant Program provides an annual total of $50,000 to facilitate a water trail program. Eligible applicants include cities, counties and schools.
Tags: Fish Habitat, Fish Habitat Program, Habitat Program, associated with, costs associated
