Over $250,000 Awarded Since 1997

The BoatU.S. Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water is offering grant funds up to $4,000 for non-profit groups to develop projects that help stop the spread of invasive species on local waterways. Since 1997 the annual grant program has awarded over $250,000 to improve the marine environment, funding 129 projects in 35 states. This year's deadline to apply is February 1, 2008.

"Invasive species adversely affect the underwater habitat and fisheries they invade. Our grant program helps educate boaters and anglers about how to stop their spread," said Susan Shingledecker, Director of Environmental Programs for the BoatU.S. Foundation.

Some ways to do that, says Shingledecker, include taking a few moments on the launch ramp at the end of the day to inspect and remove all standing water, mud or plant life from the boat. Anglers can also try to plan their fishing trips so that the boat remains out of the water for a minimum five day period before going fishing again in a different body of water, she added.

While the Foundation elected to focus on invasive species for this year's grant program, any proposal that strives to educate boaters about protecting the marine environment will be considered for funding.

To view previous grant projects or learn more about invasive species, please visit http://www.BoatUS.com/foundation/cleanwater/grants Applications must be submitted electronically or be postmarked by midnight February 1, 2008.