Friends of the Locust Fork River installing Kayak Ramp at Taylor Canoe Launch in Blountsville.
Growing Alabama Waterway Recreation Projects
The Alabama Waterway Enhancement Program (WEP) provides funding that empowers Alabama-based organizations to bring their community water-recreation ideas to life. Whether your goal is to improve a launch site, purchase safety equipment, develop an educational program, or host a paddling or cleanup event series, WEP provides the support needed to help groups across the state make a meaningful impact.
The program emphasizes community-led ideas that address local challenges and ensure water recreation remains accessible and integral part of community life. By funding local access improvements, equipment upgrades, and new ideas, WEP supports initiatives that strengthen the paddling community, encourage safe water use, and create sustainable benefits for the communities these projects serve.
WEP is designed not only to fund projects but also to build organizational capacity, helping groups gain confidence in applying for grants and managing new projects. While ASRT provides resources and guidance, this program is emblematic of the broader principle that waterway recreation thrives when local organizations lead the way, advancing our shared mission for freshwater recreation across the state.
To see the impact of past projects, explore the successes of our 2025 Waterway Enhancement Program Grant Recipients.
Neely Henry Lake Assocation Public Kayak Launch on Neely Henry Lake in Rainbow City.
Freshwater Land Trust canoes purchased for outreach efforts in use on Trust property.
WEP Program & Award Process
The Alabama Waterway Enhancement Program (WEP) supports Alabama-based nonprofit organizations through a competitive grant process designed to be accessible to both established and emerging waterway groups. The program provides project-based funding to help organizations implement meaningful, community-centered water recreation initiatives.
Grants of up to $5,000 are awarded per project. Matching or leveraged funds are encouraged but not required, and projects may be fully or partially funded. Organizations may receive WEP funding for up to two consecutive years, after which they must sit out one grant cycle before reapplying.
WEP Highlights
- Grant Amount: Up to $5,000 per project
- Matching Funds: Encouraged but not required
- Award Timeline: Awardees notified in April; funds available in mid-May
- Project Timeline: Projects completed within the grant cycle (May–November); final reports due in December
Applications are reviewed using criteria outlined in the Request for Proposals (RFP), with emphasis on project readiness, community impact, alignment with ASRT’s mission, and the ability to complete the project within the grant cycle.
Beyond funding, WEP is designed to strengthen waterway organizations across Alabama by building confidence in applying for grants and managing funded projects—supporting long-term organizational growth and future funding success.
To learn more about the past awardees of this program, explore the 2024 Waterway Enhancement Program Grant Recipients – Alabama Scenic River Trail or the 2025 Waterway Enhancement Program Grant Recipients.
Application Cycle
The 2026 cycle opens on January 13, 2026, with applications due by March 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM (CT).
Please review the 2026 RFP via the link below carefully before applying to ensure your project aligns with program goals and eligibility requirements.
Please reach out to [email protected] if you have additional questions.