Implementation Grants

A wide variety of project possibilities exist, but to be eligible for MBNEP funding the project should assist with implementation of the Morro Bay CCMP, or Conservation Plan. The Conservation Plan (CCMP) includes a list of 62 Action Plans that guide the work that is to be accomplished through the MBNEP. To download sections of the CCMP, including the Action Plan list, visit our Publications page.

Restoration and conservation projects that are not education and outreach related can be eligible for two different MBNEP grant programs based on the funding amount requested. Mini-grants are offered for proposals of $5,000 or less, and the implementation grant program accepts proposals for more than $5,000.

Implementation Grants
Implementation grants cover requests for more than $5,000 for projects that address in whole or in part Action Plans from the CCMP. Research projects are eligible for funding. Education and outreach projects are not eligible for these funds. Restoration grants are accepted twice a year. The deadlines for restoration grant application submittal are the first Friday in June and December of each year.

Since 2001, over $1.4 million in implementation grant funding has been awarded for projects including:

• Exotic plant removal - $50,000
• California Conservation Corps crew labor for restoration projects throughout the watershed - $345,000
• Erosion control project on Walters Creek - $26,000
• Erosion control and revegetation in the Elfin Forest - $7,800
• Laboratory costs for water quality monitoring - $14,000
• Project Clearwater implementation by the Coastal San Luis RCD - $416,000