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Forest

Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account Volunteer Cooperative Grant Program

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Program level:

State

Provider:

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

Benefits provided: 

Financial, Free technical assistance

Land use:

Agriculture, Forest

Water-focused program: 

Yes

Funding for voluntary fish and wildlife habitat enhancement projects.

Overview

Description:

The Washington Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account Volunteer Cooperative Grant Program is a grant program, which funds projects that engage volunteers and benefit fish and wildlife.

The ALEA Policies and Procedures Manual (PDF) on the website describes grant guidelines, which include:
- Grant funds are available on a cost reimbursement basis.
- Funds may not be used for direct wages, benefits, or stipends.
- Grantees must register volunteers and report volunteer hours.
- Grant recipients must follow state purchasing rules. Equipment purchased with grant funds must be returned to the department at project completion.
- Project outcomes must be available to the public per Chapter 77.100 RCW.

Eligibility:

Many project types are eligible, including:
Habitat - activities that restore and/or preserve fish and wildlife habitat.
Research - activities that increase our knowledge of fish and wildlife species.
Education - efforts to share information or provide hands-on experiences to enhance public knowledge of fish, wildlife and their habitats.
Facility development - efforts to provide or enhance access to fish and wildlife related recreational opportunities.
Artificial production - efforts to rear and release fish or wildlife to restore populations or for public recreation. Applicants must obtain pre-approval from WDFW to be eligible for funding.

Eligible applicants include individual citizens, non-profit organizations, schools and universities, conservation districts, and tribal governments. For-profit businesses, state, and federal agencies are not eligible.

Financial benefit: 

Reimbursible project associated costs

Contact information

Information last updated on July 15, 2025.

Planning Importance

Developing a forest, agricultural, or conservation plan helps identify and prioritize objectives for landowners. These objectives can determine what type programs to search for. Supporting organizations in your area often provide free consultation and planning.

Landscape Characteristics

See how your land fits into the broader context of regional conservation, ecosystem services, and working lands' values across the landscape through our interactive mapper tool. It could help you determine which program is a good fit for you!

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