Sport Fish Restoration - Boat Access
Sport Fish Restoration - Boat Access supports Wisconsin communities and lake associations in building or improving public boating facilities so recreational boaters can safely access the state's waters.
Funder: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates: February 1, 2027 (annual application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to 75% of eligible project costs; Sport Fish Restoration awards normally cover 50%
Summary: Supports facilities that create or improve public recreational boating access in Wisconsin.
Key Information: Funded facilities must remain maintained and publicly accessible throughout their useful life.
Description
Sport Fish Restoration – Boat Access is a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) subaward program funded through the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. It supports facilities that create or improve public access to Wisconsin waters for recreational boating. Projects may construct or renovate ramps, boarding docks, parking areas, accessible paths, lighting and restrooms, among other access improvements. Related channel dredging can also qualify.
The program draws on federal Sport Fish Restoration funding, supported in part by taxes on fishing equipment and motorboat fuel. DNR considers demand for safe boating facilities alongside the location of existing facilities and projects already underway. Funded facilities must be available to all recreational boaters, although uses may be restricted for safety, property protection, noise abatement or aquatic resource protection.
