Seven recipients will share $1.25 million from DNR’s Aquatic Habitat Grant Program

The Department of Natural Resources has approved the second round of projects under its Aquatic Habitat Grant Program. A total of 18 applications seeking $3.4 million were received and evaluated. The DNR has approved the following seven projects totaling $1.25 million:

Applicant Name Project Name Applicant County Grant Amount Recommended
Huron Pines Houghton Creek Fish Passage Improvement/Flynn Road Crossing Restoration Ogemaw $85,000
Battle Creek Intercounty Drain Drainage District Battle Creek River Stream Restoration Eaton $260,000
Conservation Resource Alliance Free Span the Maple River Connectivity Initiative Emmet $75,000
Michigan Trout Unlimited Schwartz Creek Fish Passage Improvement Dickinson $65,000
Friends of the Shiawassee River Shiatown Stream Restoration Shiawassee $365,000
City of Rochester Paint Creek Habitat Restoration – Phase II Oakland $100,000
Ionia Conservation District Grand River Restoration at Lyons Ionia $300,000


The Aquatic Habitat Grant Program funds projects that protect intact and rehabilitate degraded aquatic resources throughout the state; develop self-sustaining aquatic communities that provide for continuing recreational opportunities and natural resource-based economies; and develop strong relationships and partnerships.

“This year’s grants will enhance a broad range of aquatic habitat that is the foundation for Michigan’s world-class fishing opportunities,” said Chris Freiburger, coordinator of the Aquatic Habitat Grant Program. “We’re excited for these projects to get under way and to really make a difference.”

Anyone interested in learning more about the Aquatic Habitat Grant Program should visit michigan.gov/dnr-grants.