By Paul J Sniadecki, Board Director
The Michigan Aquatic Invasive Plant Control Grant Program was created through the addition of Part 414 to the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, as amended. The Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) is tasked to provide grants to eligible applicants for the control or eradication of aquatic invasive plant species in inland lakes.
The 2020 grant cycle was to begin on June 1, 2020. Unfortunately, as of June 14, 2020, this year’s cycle has not begun and is in a “Delayed Status.” The impacts of COVID-19 and the furloughs of many State of Michigan employees appear to be involved with the delay.
The AIP Control grant program will offer grants for the 2020 management season. EGLE permit/annual fee reimbursement for the chemical, physical, biological, or combination of these methods for aquatic invasive plant control or eradication will be eligible. Additional eligible expenses are currently being determined. Details will be announces by EGLE when available. The following information is from the AIP webpage.
2020 Schedule
- Request for Proposal (RFP) Announcement: COVID-19 Update – The 2020 AIP grant release date has been delayed. This website will be updated when more information is available.
- Application Deadline: July 1st, 2020.
- Applicant Notification: September 1st, 2020.