Michael D. Netherland Graduate Student Research Grant supports graduate students studying aquatic plant and algae management or nuisance vegetation ecology to guide practical aquatic ecosystem management.
Funder: Aquatic Plant Management Society
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2028 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $55,000 over two years ($27,500 annually); $40,000 if no southeastern-focused proposal is selected
Summary: Supports full-time graduate student research on aquatic plant and algae management or the ecology of nuisance aquatic vegetation.
Key Information: Applicants must be affiliated with an accredited U.S. academic institution; student applicants must identify a faculty sponsor.
The Aquatic Plant Management Society (APMS) offers this grant to support full-time graduate students researching aquatic plant or algae management and ecology. Eligible work examines management techniques, alone or integrated with other approaches, or the biology and management of regionally or nationally recognized nuisance aquatic vegetation, including macrophytes, algae, and cyanobacteria. The program is co-sponsored by APMS and regional chapters.
The published 2027–2028 award emphasizes applied research relevant to the southeastern and midsouth United States. The collaboration with the South Carolina and Midsouth chapters seeks research that can inform active management programs and provide practical guidance to aquatic ecosystem managers. Preferred topics include Vallisneria (eelgrass), Lyngbya control, and harmful algal blooms, although all research topics and proposals will be considered. The program was renamed in 2019 to honor Dr. Michael D. Netherland’s contributions to aquatic plant management and graduate student mentorship.