DNR approves $3.8 million in grants for recreational boating improvements and development

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced today $3.8 million in Waterways Grant Program funding to 12 communities throughout the state to boost recreational boating.

This year, projects in Alger, Baraga, Barry, Benzie, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Huron, Mackinac, Macomb, Mason and Sanilac counties were approved for projects that include marina renovation, dock replacements, seawall improvements, fuel tank replacement and engineering studies.

“Michigan is surrounded by 20% of the world’s fresh water and defined by our lakes, rivers, wetlands and coastlines,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “There’s nothing more quintessentially Michigan than getting out on the water for a day fishing, boating or just having fun. These Waterways grants will open Michigan’s great outdoors to more Michigan families and make our state a better place to live, work and play. Let’s keep working together to protect Michigan’s treasured natural resources and pass them on to future generations.”

The funding is made possible through the DNR Parks and Recreation Division’s Waterways Grant Program, which began in 1949 with the goal of expanding the harbor system along the Great Lakes and boating access sites throughout the state. Today, the system includes more than 1,200 state-sponsored boating access sites, 19 state-managed harbors and 63 local state-sponsored harbors of refuge along the Great Lakes.

“Michigan is home to great boating and fantastic freshwater recreation opportunities,” said Kristen Kosick, DNR Parks and Recreation Division chief. “We have residents who live on the water, those who travel all over the state to boat and visitors who come here from around the world because it’s the Great Lakes State. Our beautiful state offers outdoor recreation opportunities and picturesque views not found anywhere else, so it’s critical that the DNR helps invest in and fund Michigan’s harbors and boating access sites for the benefit of all.”

Local units of government and state colleges and universities are eligible to apply for grant assistance for recreational boating improvements and development at grant-in-aid harbors and public boating access sites. The grant-in-aid program provides matching funding to help support quality recreational boating infrastructure. Communities are asked to match 50% of required funds.

Visit the Waterways Program Grants webpage to see the full list of 2025 Waterways Grants/description of projects.

The grants are funded through the Michigan State Waterways Fund, a restricted fund derived primarily from boat registration fees and a portion of Michigan’s gas tax that supports the construction, operation and maintenance of public recreational boating facilities.

The application period for the next round of Waterways Grant Program funding is due April 1, 2026.

Learn more about the grant program and application materials at Michigan.gov/DNRGrants.

Note to editors: An accompanying photo is available below for download. Caption information follows.

• Boating: Boaters prepare for an afternoon on the water. Photo credit: Tyler Leipprandt and Michigan Sky Media LLC for the DNR.