Fish Habitat Program
Funds Iowa county conservation boards to acquire land and improve aquatic habitats, supporting fishable waters and watershed protection through science-based habitat enhancements.
Funder: Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates: November 30, 2026 (Full application submission deadline; annual cycle)
Funding Amounts: Up to 90% of eligible project costs reimbursed; approx. $70,000 available per cycle, divided equally among six districts.
Summary: Supports Iowa county conservation boards in acquiring and developing fish habitats, including land acquisition and aquatic habitat improvements.
Key Information: Only county conservation boards are eligible; seven copies of the application must be submitted to the district chair by 4:30 PM on the due date.
Description
The program provides financial support to Iowa county conservation boards for the acquisition and development of fish habitats. Eligible projects include both the purchase of land for fish habitat purposes and a broad range of aquatic habitat improvement activities such as shoreline armoring, dredging, aeration systems, sediment basins, dam repairs or removals, fish ladders, barriers, and rock-faced jetties. The goal is to enhance fishable waters, improve aquatic environments, and protect watersheds across Iowa.
