NMMA

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has confirmed the agency’s Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) programme will provide more than $21m in grant funding for 21 states to construct, renovate, and maintain marinas and other boating facilities for waterway access.

USFWS estimates the funding will provide 187 new slips and berths as well as 7,768 linear feet of additional side-tie docking space, and amenities such as fuel docks and showers benefitting the transient recreational boating public.

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), a trade association representing boat, marine engine and accessory manufacturers in North America, says infrastructure funding remains a top priority for the US recreational boating industry, as boater access is critical to its growth and success.

Under the BIG programme, more than $4.4m will fund projects in 18 states under the BIG Tier 1 subprogram, and $17m in grants will be awarded competitively for projects in 12 states under the BIG Tier 2 subprogramme. States receiving BIG grants include Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.

“BIG funds benefit local communities and waterways and the recreational boaters who enjoy them,” says USFWS director Martha Williams. “These grants provide opportunities for boating and fishing while improving economies in local communities, offering easy access to waterfronts and much-needed facilities.”

Funding for the BIG programme comes from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund (Trust Fund), a voluntary user pay system created by recreational boaters and anglers in 1950 to pay for critical conservation programmes and recreational boating infrastructure projects.

Grantees use BIG funds to construct, renovate and maintain marinas and other facilities with features for transient boats (those staying 15 days or less), that are 26 feet (7.9 metres) or more in length, and used for recreation. Grantees may also use funds to produce and distribute information and educational materials about the programme and recreational boating.

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