Boating Infrastructure Grants
Boating Infrastructure Grants support Michigan harbor operators with engineering and infrastructure improvements that give visiting recreational boaters in vessels at least 26 feet long lasting public access.
Funder: Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates: February 1, 2027 (public harbor plans) | April 1, 2027 (DNR application) | September 2027 (federal proposal, exact date to be announced)
Funding Amounts: Up to 75% of approved construction project costs; applicant provides the remaining non-federal share
Summary: Funds harbor engineering and infrastructure improvements in Michigan for visiting recreational boaters in vessels at least 26 feet long.
Key Information: Funded facilities must serve transient boaters and remain open to the public for their useful life.
Description
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s nationally advertised Boating Infrastructure Grant Program is offered in Michigan through the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Parks and Recreation Division’s Waterways Program. It is a highly competitive program for harbor engineering and infrastructure improvements throughout the state, funded through the Sport Fish Restoration Account.
Projects must benefit transient boaters—those away from their home port for no more than 14 consecutive days—using boats at least 26 feet long. The program supports public access to lasting recreational harbor facilities, rather than commercial uses or seasonal slips. DNR defines the useful life of a funded facility as 20 years, during which it must be maintained and continue serving its stated grant purpose.
