2026 Western Division AFS Small Project Grants
The WDAFS is currently accepting applications for funding of small fisheries-related projects in the western United States, US territories, Pacific Islands, and Canadian provinces represented by the WDAFS. These grants are offered as a benefit to dues paying members of the WDAFS. Grants are usually modest, averaging less than $1,000, but can help get a project started or be used to supplement funding from other sources. Applications must be submitted using the Google form here, no later than March 27, 2026.
Projects that further the mission and strategic objectives of the American Fisheries Society and the Western Division will be targeted for Small Project Grant funding. AFS’ mission is to improve the conservation and sustainability of fishery resources and aquatic ecosystems by advancing fisheries and
aquatic science and promoting the development of fisheries professionals. The Western Division endeavors to provide a forum for exchanging technical and policy information, promote understanding by regional, federal, and state policy-makers of the nature and extent of fishery matters of concern to the membership, facilitate timely exchange of information to chapters and the general membership, and provide a vehicle for the active participation of individual members in Society business and professional activities.
Applicants should be prepared to provide the following information: 1) a project description; 2) a description of how the project aligns with and furthers AFS’s mission; 3) a description of how the project aligns with and furthers WDAFS’s objectives; 4) project timeline; and, 5) total project cost, funding
received from other partners, and total funding request from WDAFS. Typically, small project grant awards cannot be used for travel (mileage or per diem) except in special situations. If your application budget includes travel funds, please contact Julie Carter (pastpresident@wdafs.org) to find out if they may be covered by the award.
The WDAFS Executive Committee will review applications, select grantees, and notify applicants of their decision. Again, in order to realize the greatest value from limited WDAFS resources, projects addressing AFS goals and objectives, those with high visibility, and those with a greater positive impact on fisheries resources will be given priority. The number and amount of funds provided to grantees is contingent on funding priorities and the availability of funds. We reserve the right to offer a grant amount that is different than that requested. Payment will be by check and will be provided as a reimbursement and all receipts must be submitted by February 15, 2027.
The WDAFS is a tax-exempt non-profit organization dedicated to the professional advancement of its members and the conservation and wise use of fisheries resources. Anyone wishing to donate to the WDAFS Small Project Grants fund is urged to contact WDAFS Past President Julie Carter.
We look forward to the opportunity to fund your small project in 2026!
