Dallas – As paddlers take to Pennsylvania waterways in ever-increasing numbers, a
new mini grant program provides funding to make the Commonwealth’s rivers and
streams more accessible.
The Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers (POWR) announces the
opening of the new Statewide Waterway Access Grant Mini Grant Program
(SWAG). The grant program, supported by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat
Commission (PFBC) and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural
Resources, is designed to help meet growing demand for non-motorized boating
opportunities. The program provides grants of up to $30,000 to create new or improve
existing access points along the region’s rivers, streams, and waterways.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, sales of non-motorized watercraft such as canoes,
kayaks and stand-up paddleboards skyrocketed, with a 56% increase in spending
nationwide during June of 2020 alone. The rush of new users highlights the need for
improved stream access.
POWR encourages townships, boroughs, municipal and county governments, and
nonprofit groups (501c3) to apply. Grant applications are open on a rolling basis for
acquisition, design and engineering, construction, and rehabilitation projects. Projects
must benefit and directly support non-motorized recreational boating. A one-to-one
match is required, and grantees will be responsible for all ongoing maintenance of the
selected site. The program will not award grants to private businesses.
To Apply for a grant, please click here.
Last modified: September 7, 2023
