The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries announces the availability of grants for fiscal year (FY) 2013 and requests applications. Eligible to receive grants are Virginia localities (Counties, Cities, and Towns). The purposes of the grants are to assist localities in providing public opportunities for boating access facilities for new development or the renovation or improvements to existing public boating access facilities.

Recreational boating is a popular activity and there are approximately 250,000 registered boats in Virginia. Many more boats (canoes/kayaks) that are not registered use existing facilities or are in need of additional sites. This grant program provides up to 75% of the approved project costs to construct or renovate boating access facilities for trailer or non-trailer hand launch facilities. Applications are due by October 1, 2012 and award is anticipated by January 1, 2013. Funds are provided on a reimbursement basis. For more information, contact Steve Kesler at steve.kelser@dgif.virginia.gov, office phone (804) 561-1447 or cell phone (804) 840-9493