Aquatic invasive plants management grants program

Invasive, non-native aquatic plants are a serious threat to the health of lakes, rivers, and streams in Washington. Excessive invasive plant growth impairs fish and wildlife habitat, and restricts recreational activities.

In 1991, the Legislature established the Freshwater Aquatic Invasive Plant Management Program and Account to provide financial and technical support to tackle the problem statewide. The account provides funding for technical assistance, public education, and grants to help control aquatic invasive plants. Account revenue comes from a $3 fee on the yearly registration of boat trailers, which are the biggest carriers of aquatic invasive species. Learn about the types of past projects this program has funded.

For more help managing your aquatic invasive plants grant-funded project, read general resources for water quality grants and loans.

Funding cycle

  • Amount of funding available: Generally, about $350,000 is available during each annual funding cycle.
  • Grant award limit: $30,000 for planning grants. $75,000 for other projects. $75,000 maximum per public entity per annual grant cycle. $50,000 for early infestation projects.
  • Amount of matching funds required: None.

Applications are not being accepted at this time.

Application period:  October 15, 2025 – December 16, 2025 by 5 p.m.

Applications are started, completed, and submitted via Ecology's Administration of Grants and Loans (EAGL) system.

Funding is available for the following entities:

  • Counties and cities
  • Special purpose districts
  • State agencies
  • Tribes

Eligible activities include, but are not limited to:

  • Integrated aquatic vegetation management plans development
  • Plant control activities
  • Education and information projects
  • Aquatic plant mapping and inventory
  • Pilot and demonstration projects, evaluation of implementation effectiveness, and follow-up monitoring

More information about this funding program

State fiscal year 2026 final offer list

Past grant recipients