Lake Champlain Basin Program Seeks Proposals for Projects that Improve Public Waterfront Access

Grand Isle, VT – The Patrick Leahy Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP), in coordination with NEIWPCC, seeks proposals for projects that will improve public access to waterbodies in the Lake Champlain Basin. 

The intent of this opportunity is to measurably improve public access to recreation opportunities in the watershed to enhance the enjoyment, understanding, and appreciation of the Lake Champlain Basin’s natural and cultural resources. 

Dr. Eric Howe, NEIWPCC Program Director of the Lake Champlain Basin Program, said, “Public access areas serve as vital points of connection between communities and their local waterways. We are proud to support projects that improve access in a variety of important ways.” 

Activities supported by this funding opportunity could include: 

• Improved access to recreational watercraft and related supplies 

• Water safety education and instruction 

• Infrastructure improvements 

• Transportation solutions 

• Natural resource engagement education and outreach programs 

• Reduced financial barriers to accessing recreational programs and areas 

Eligible organizations include colleges, universities, nonprofit organizations, for-profit companies, and non-federal/non-state government agencies, including municipalities, that are situated and work in the Lake Champlain Basin. 

Approximately $300,000 is available to support awarded projects. Proposals should offer a scope that supports the U.S. portion of the Lake Champlain basin. 

This grant opportunity is supported by funds awarded to Lake Champlain by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 

Proposals are due at 5:00 PM EST on August 15, 2025. Awarded projects may begin work in February 2026. More information, including grant guidelines and applications, is available on the Lake Champlain Basin Program’s website at lcbp.org/grants.   

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The Patrick Leahy Lake Champlain Basin Program coordinates and funds efforts that benefit the Lake Champlain Basin’s water quality, fisheries, wetlands, wildlife, recreation, and cultural resources. The program works in partnership with federal agencies, state and provincial agencies from New York, Vermont, and Québec, local communities, businesses, and citizen groups. NEIWPCC—a regional commission that helps the states of the Northeast preserve and advance water quality—serves as the primary program administrator of LCBP at the request of the Lake Champlain Steering Committee and administers the program’s personnel, finances, quality management and contracts. NEIWPCC is a program partner of LCBP. For further information, contact the Lake Champlain Basin Program, 54 West Shore Road, Grand Isle, VT at (802) 372-3213 / (800) 468-5227 or visit https://www.lcbp.org/.