Southeast Aquatics Fund 2026 Request For Proposals
The Southeast Aquatics Fund supports collaborative, science-driven projects to restore aquatic habitats, improve water quality, and recover native species in targeted southeastern U.S. watersheds.
Funder: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2026 | July 2027
Funding Amounts: Typical awards: $150,000–$500,000 per project; project duration 24–36 months; 1:1 non-federal match required.
Summary: Supports projects to conserve and restore aquatic habitats and native species in the southeastern U.S., emphasizing water quality, connectivity, and collaborative conservation.
Key Information: All deadlines are projected—confirm on the program page before applying.
Description
The Southeast Aquatics Fund, administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), is a competitive grant program supporting projects that improve and restore aquatic habitats in the southeastern United States. The program focuses on enhancing water quality and quantity, restoring instream and riparian conditions, improving aquatic connectivity, supporting species recovery, and fostering watershed monitoring and planning. Priority is given to collaborative, science-based projects within targeted watersheds and river basins across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas.
Eligible activities include aquifer recharge, forest and riparian restoration, technical assistance for landowners, species monitoring and recovery, and watershed resilience planning. Projects must demonstrate measurable conservation outcomes and align with regional conservation strategies such as the Longleaf Forests and Rivers Business Plan. Emphasis is placed on community engagement and partnerships to ensure project sustainability and impact.
