Western Native Trout Initiative

2026 National Fish Habitat Partnership

For the present funding cycle, all funds awarded by WNTI are for projects that support the fundamentals of western native trout habitat conservation (protect, restore, enhance and recover). Projects considered for funding may include science-based voluntary and non-regulatory habitat conservation activities to benefit the 21 species of western trout and char addressed by WNTI. Types of eligible activities may include riparian or instream habitat restoration, enhancement, and protection projects; or assessment projects that meet specific WNTI criteria described in more detail in the RFP documentation. NFHP funds can only be used for on-the-ground habitat projects and related design and monitoring activities; funds may not be used for research, or solely to support personnel and staff salaries or benefits.

WNTI anticipates receiving between $150,000 and $230,000 in NFHP funds for FY2026 projects. The exact amount of funding available to the partnership varies annually and is not known at this time. This is a very competitive process and for the last eight years the pool of applicants has exceeded the available pool of funding. Typical funding per project is in the range of $25K-$50K. Successful proposals must demonstrate a minimum 1:1 non-federal match, with an exception for Indian Tribes. WNTI gives special consideration to projects with more than the minimum match.

Applications will be reviewed and ranked by the WNTI Steering Committee based on their ability to meet the Initiative’s key priorities and strategic objectives.