COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is opening applications for school districts, universities, nonprofits and other eligible organizations to apply for $500,000 in boating safety education grants.

Grants range from $1,000 to $30,000 with grantee cost share or contribution of 25%.

What You Need To Know

  • The Ohio Department of Resources isopening applications for school districts, universities, nonprofits and other eligible organizations to apply for $500,000 in boating safety education grants

  • Grants range from $1,000 to $30,000

  • The funds will support local purchases of safety equipment such as kayaks, life jackets and trailers

“We want to make sure everyone in Ohio has a fun and safe boating experience,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said in a news release. “These grants will help people learn the ways of the water, provide safe equipment, and ensure boaters have everything they need to make cherished memories on our lakes, rivers, and streams.”

The funds will support local purchases of safety equipment such as kayaks, life jackets and trailers. 

Applicants are invited to a free grant workshop Nov. 3 in Columbus which will cover the application process and which projects are eligible for funding. For more information on the on the workshop, or to apply, click here.

The grants are funded by Ohio’s recreational boaters through the Waterways Safety Fund, which is comprised of a share of the state motor fuel tax, watercraft registration and titling fees, and funding from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Last year, nearly $330,000 was awarded to 15 grantees including outdoor nonprofit organizations, colleges, park districts and local school districts.