Clean Boats, Clean Waters
Clean Boats, Clean Waters supports organizations running boat and trailer inspections and boater education programs to prevent aquatic invasive species from entering or spreading in Wisconsin waters.
Funder: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates: November 16, 2026 (Final application) | May 1, 2027 (New applicant eligibility) | September 15, 2027 (New applicant intent/pre-application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $24,000 per project ($4,000 per landing or pair of landings), covering up to 75% of costs; maximum one-year term
Summary: Supports boat and trailer inspections and boater education to prevent aquatic invasive species from entering or spreading in Wisconsin waters.
Key Information: Inspectors must complete approved training every two years and provide at least 200 inspection hours per landing or pair.
Description
Clean Boats, Clean Waters (CBCW) is a streamlined aquatic invasive species grant administered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources through its Surface Water Grant Program. It supports eligible organizations operating volunteer or paid watercraft inspection programs at boat landings and other waterbody access points. The goal is to prevent aquatic invasive species from entering Wisconsin surface waters and limit the spread of species already present.
Projects focus on boat and trailer inspections and direct boater education rather than broader invasive species management or research. Inspectors collect data, educate waterbody users, report invasive species, and upload inspection data to the Surface Water Integrated Monitoring System (SWIMS). Programs must prioritize high-use periods, including holidays, weekends, and fishing tournaments.
