Hydrilla Early Detection, Surveillance, and Response in the Connecticut River

Background
The US Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) received FY2023 funding from Congress for the sole purpose of managing and improving the understanding of submerged aquatic invasive grasses with focus on Hydrilla, Milfoil, and Elodea. The Northeast Region is managing $250,000 of these funds. The Service is seeking proposals that address Hydrilla infestations in the Connecticut River.

Hydrilla was first detected in the Connecticut River in 2016. The Connecticut River stretches from the Canadian border through New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, finally emptying into Long Island Sound. With 38 main tributaries, the watershed plays an important role in New England’s identity.

Grant Details
Funds made available through this grant opportunity will support the following priority goals:

Prevention of further spread of hydrilla into inland and tributary waters;
Expansion of surveillance in the Connecticut River and to tributaries and nearby waters;
Early detection surveillance in tributaries and nearby waters;
Rapid response efforts supporting control and eradication of new infestations;
Management and containment of existing populations;
Improve awareness and affect behavior of water users through education and outreach initiatives.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible Applicants: 00 – State governments. Foreign Entities or Projects: State Sponsors of Terrorism are not eligible to apply for this grant. Excluded Parties: The DOI conducts a review of the SAM.gov Exclusions database for all applicant entities and their key project personnel prior to award.

Period of Performance
Period of Performance: Expected Award Date - August 15, 2024. Expected Number of Awards - 3.

Grant Value
$250,000

Place of Performance
The specific geographic location(s) the grant will be performed is in the Connecticut River.