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    Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission

    Apply for the Erie Access Improvement Grant

    Funding to assist non-profit and government organizations in the acquisition and development of angler access and the protection and improvement of fish habitat in the Erie watershed.

    Erie Access Improvement Grant Application
    Erie Access Improvement Grant Program Procedure Guidelines

    About the Erie Access Improvement Grant Program

    The Erie Access Improvement Grant Program was made possible by Act 159 of 2004 which created a new Lake Erie stamp (required for anglers fishing in the Lake Erie watershed) and a Combination Lake Erie Trout/Salmon Stamp. The Act provides that the proceeds from the sale of Lake Erie permits are to be deposited into a restricted account within the Fish Fund to "be used to provide public fishing access or to protect or improve fish habitat on or at Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay and their tributaries, including waters that flow into those tributaries. Act 56 of 2020 expanded the Erie program to include many different types of projects that benefit public fishing in the Lake Erie watershed, such as fish cleaning stations, new technology, and research projects to improve the fishery.

    Government entities and other nonprofit, sporting, conservation and watershed organizations as well as Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)-designated State Heritage Areas may identify acquisition and development needs in the Erie watershed and request Commission funding to assist in addressing these needs. Eligible projects include acquisition of lands and property rights including public fishing easements, and/or development of lands to improve and/or maintain angler access.

    The deadline for grant applications is December 1, 2025.  Funding requests require a 50% match.

    The Commission initiated this grant program to ensure that anglers in the Erie watershed have the highest quality access to fishing opportunities. The opportunities afforded by Lake Erie and its tributary streams are unique, and we want to work with partners to improve the existing situation.

    Procedure Guide
    Application
    Operating Statement

    How to Apply

    The 2025 grant round is now open and will close on December 1, 2025. If you’re interested in applying, a site visit is required. 

    If you have questions or to schedule a site visit, contact the Statewide Public Access Program Manager at 717-346-8196 or ra-boatgrants@pa.gov.

    How to Apply

    View Application for the Erie Access Improvement Grant Program

    View Application

    View Procedure Guide for the Erie Access Improvement Grant Program

    View Guide

    Contact Information for Questions About the Program

    Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
    Bureau of Boating
    Boating Facility Grant Program
    PO Box 67000
    Harrisburg, PA 17106-7000
    717-346-8196
    Email: ra-boatgrants@pa.gov