OH Coastal Management Assistance Grants

The Ohio Coastal Management Assistance Grants provide funding for projects that improve water quality, enhance coastal habitats, and promote public access to Lake Erie. Eligible recipients, including local governments and non-profits, can apply for grants with a required 1:1 non-federal match. Since 1998, over $8 million has been awarded for 155 projects, with total investments exceeding $13 million. These grants support vital coastal planning, education, and habitat restoration efforts.

The Coastal Management Assistance Grant program is a competitive annual grant opportunity offered through the Ohio Coastal Management Program. Grants can be issued to eligible entities for water quality improvement, coastal planning, education programs, land acquisition, research, public access, habitat restoration, and other purposes. More than $8 million in Coastal Management Assistance Grants have been awarded for 155 projects in Ohio since the program began in 1998. Including non-federal match, over $13 million has been invested in CMAG projects since program inception.

Eligibility

A minimum 1:1 non-federal match is requiredEligible recipients include units of local government (municipalities, townships, counties, school districts, park districts, port authorities, etc.), state agencies, academic institutions, and non-profit corporations. Only public entities are eligible to receive grants for construction, engineering/design, or land acquisition projects. Eligible Uses of FundsFeasibility studies and engineering reports for enhancing coastal resources
Protection/enhancement of wetlands, dunes, and other coastal habitat
Protection of historical and cultural coastal resources
Redevelopment of deteriorating or underutilized waterfronts and ports

Ineligibility

Federal funds cannot be used as match (other than Community Development Block Grants).Ineligible Uses of FundsRestroom facilities
Maintenance activities
Active recreation facilities, such as ball fields, etc.
Construction on private property
Construction or acquisition outside the designated Coastal Area