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The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has announced $6 million in grant funding to develop or expand boating decontamination facilities and control measures in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The program is designed to help prevent the overland spread of invasive golden mussels (Limnoperna fortunei) from the Delta into other California waterways.

The funding presents a potential opportunity for organizations, businesses, and other entities involved in California’s aquatic industries to participate in efforts to protect the state’s waterways, infrastructure, and fisheries from this invasive species.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• Entities that own or operate boating facilities.
• State and local government agencies.
• California Native American Tribes.
• Other public entities.
• Private entities and businesses.
• Nonprofit organizations.

What Projects Are Eligible?

CDFW will fund one-time startup costs associated with implementing measures to prevent the overland spread of golden mussels. Proposed projects must be located on or centrally located to Delta waterways and support the five Delta counties: Yolo, Sacramento, Solano, Contra Costa, and San Joaquin.

Examples of eligible projects and expenses include:

• Establishing or expanding stationary watercraft and equipment decontamination stations.
• Installing rapid decontamination and boat submersion systems.
• Purchasing mobile hot-water decontamination units.
• Developing or improving boat ramps, wash stations, and containment areas.
• Purchasing equipment, supplies, and other tools needed to operate decontamination facilities.
• Providing training for facility personnel on watercraft inspection and decontamination procedures.
• Developing educational materials and public outreach programs.

Eligible expenses may also include site development, installation, and related equipment purchases.

Funding and Application Details

CDFW has allocated a total of $6 million for this funding opportunity. The solicitation does not specify a predetermined award amount for individual projects.

Cost sharing is not required, although applicants that contribute matching funds or in-kind resources may receive a favorable consideration during the review process. Indirect administrative costs are eligible, subject to a limit of 20% of direct costs.

Key dates and application information:

• Application period opened: November 3, 2026.
• Informational webinar: November 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
• Application deadline: December 15, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Pacific Time.
• Anticipated award announcements: Spring 2027.
• Grant agreements: Expected to be executed by April 30, 2027.
• Project completion deadline: March 15, 2029.

Applications must be submitted electronically through the CDFW WebGrants portal. Applicants are strongly encouraged, but not required, to consult with CDFW’s Invasive Species Program before submitting a proposal.

Additional Information and Association Assistance

California Aquaculture Association members interested in exploring this funding opportunity are encouraged to review the complete solicitation and consider whether their facilities, operations, or partnerships could support an eligible project.

Members interested in applying who need administrative assistance are encouraged to contact the California Aquaculture Association.

For additional information, application guidelines, and access to the WebGrants portal, visit the CDFW grant announcement.

Questions about the funding opportunity can also be directed to CDFW at invasives@wildlife.ca.gov.