National Culvert Removal, Replacement, and Restoration (Culvert Aquatic Organism Passage)
This grant funds projects to replace, remove, or repair culverts or weirs to improve fish passage for species like salmon that migrate between freshwater and saltwater.
Funder: DOT Federal Highway Administration
Due Dates: July 16, 2026 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $800 million total for FY23–26; no minimum or maximum award size; typically 50 awards per cycle.
Summary: Supports projects to replace, remove, or repair culverts or weirs that improve or restore fish passage for anadromous fish.
Key Information: 20% non-federal cost share required for most applicants; Tribes exempt from match.
Description
This program funds projects that replace, remove, or repair culverts or weirs to meaningfully improve or restore fish passage for anadromous fish (species that migrate between fresh and saltwater, such as salmon). The goal is to enhance aquatic organism passage as part of broader conservation, ecosystem, and infrastructure priorities. Eligible projects must have a clear surface transportation nexus (e.g., be related to or located near roads, highways, or other transportation infrastructure).
Funded activities may include:
- Replacement, removal, or repair of culverts or weirs.
- Infrastructure to facilitate fish passage around or over weirs.
- Weir improvements supporting fish passage.
Priority is given to projects that benefit endangered, threatened, or at-risk anadromous fish, those that open significant upstream habitat, and those that support local economies and traditional food access.
