Hennepin Supplier Systems #GFP0000157

Hennepin County Seeks Proposals for Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Watercraft Inspection and Decontamination Grants

Hennepin County Environment and Energy Department is seeking proposals for its Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention Watercraft Inspection/Decontamination Grants program. - Government Buyer: - Hennepin County Environment and Energy Department, Minnesota - Program funded by the State of Minnesota's Local AIS Prevention Aid - Program Overview: - Up to $160,000 available for new and supplemental watercraft inspection and decontamination programs - Grants support prevention of aquatic invasive species at public water accesses - Eligible applicants: nonprofit organizations, local government units, and public entities - Priority given to entities that do not levy local taxes (e.g., lake associations) - Products/Services Requested: - Watercraft inspection and decontamination services at public water accesses - Boater education integrated into inspection programs - Adherence to Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) training and manuals - Reporting requirements: semi-annual progress and final reports - Funding Details: - New program grants: two-year term, 15% matching funds in year one, 35% in year two - Supplemental funding: capped at 35% of previous year's inspection budget or $30,000 (whichever is less), one-year term - County allocates 80% of AIS funds to partners, 20% to county-directed work - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Projects must follow Minnesota DNR guidelines - Emphasis on collaboration with local governments, nonprofits, and other stakeholders - Focus on water recreation and pets/hobbies as pathways for AIS spread - No specific OEMs or vendors are named; opportunity is open to all qualified organizations

Description

Hennepin County is soliciting proposals for Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention Watercraft Inspection/Decontamination Grants. The grant program aims to prevent the spread of AIS at public water accesses through watercraft inspections and decontaminations. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, local government units, and public entities or institutions. The program prioritizes funding for entities that do not levy local taxes, such as lake associations, to establish or supplement watercraft inspection programs. The grant period includes a two-year term for new programs with matching fund requirements and supplemental funding for existing programs. An informational meeting is scheduled for September 29, 2026, and applications are due by November 12, 2026.

View original listing