Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Program

The WaterSMART Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Program provides cost shared funding to states, Tribes, and other entities as they study, design and construct large-scale aquatic ecosystem restoration projects that are collaboratively developed, have widespread regional benefits, and result in the improvement of the health of fisheries, wildlife, and aquatic habitat.

Eligible restoration activities include, but are not limited to:

• Removal or Modification of Barriers to Fish Passage
• Restoration of Floodplain Connectivity
• Restoration of Aquatic Habitat
• Implementation of Nature-Based Solutions Projects
• Improvement of Water Availability, Quality, and Temperature
• Other Related Activities

Documents

• Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Projects Fact Sheet
• Frequently Asked Questions

Contacts

For additional on WaterSMART Environmental Water Resources Projects, please contact Ms. Katherine Tucker at 303-445-2586 or send an email to ktucker@usbr.sgov.

Announcements

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• FY25/26 Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Program Funding Opportunity Webinar

  The Bureau of Reclamation hosted an informational webinar on Thursday, January 16, 2025, to discuss eligible applicants and project types, program requirements, and the evaluation criteria for the Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Program funding opportunity. Applications for the first round of funding are due April 15, 2025. Click here to watch a recording.

  Download Slideshow