Coastal Recreational Fishing License Grant Program

View information on the upcoming MFC CRFL Advisory Committee meeting

Under state law, revenue from sales of N.C. Coastal Recreational Fishing Licenses goes in two separate funds, both set up specifically to be used to manage, protect, restore, develop, cultivate and enhance the marine resources of the state. The Marine Resources Endowment Fund receives revenues from the sale of lifetime CRFLs. The Marine Resources Fund receives revenues from the sale of all other CRFLs.

Subject to annual availability, the DMF, in consultation with the WRC, may decide to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) for consideration of funding.

The Strategic Plan for the Conservation and Improvement of North Carolina Marine Resources sets forth a framework of objectives and strategies to meet the statutory requirement that the fund be used to manage, protect, restore, develop, cultivate and enhance the marine resources of the state. The framework provides the basis upon which to evaluate and select proposals for CRFL funding. Example priority research needs have been compiled based on priority needs in Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) approved by the Marine Fisheries Commission, issues identified in the Coastal Habitat Protection Plan (CHPP), and research needs identified cooperatively with other agencies. The objectives and strategies are topics of particular interest at this time and do not represent an inclusive list of all priority needs in FMPs and the CHPP.

Only proposals from universities, community colleges, local/state North Carolina governmental entities, DMF, or WRC are eligible to receive funding. Individuals/groups desiring funding must partner with one of these eligible agencies.

View the Monthly CRFL Sales Updates

N.C. Marine Resources Fund N.C. Marine Resources Endowment Fund

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Request for Proposals

The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries is accepting applications for proposals for fishing access and education projects for the 2023-2024 funding cycle from the N.C. Marine Resources Fund.

Only accredited universities, colleges, or local and state governmental entities located in North Carolina are eligible to apply. Others must partner with one of these eligible entities.

Proposals will be evaluated based on the N.C. Marine Resources Fund and Marine Resources Endowment Fund Strategic Plan to Manage, Protect, Restore, Develop, Cultivate, Conserve, and Enhance North Carolina’s Marine Resources.

Projects submitted for funding will only be considered if they address the specific priority need listed within the Request for Proposals, which is:

  • Access and Education – Projects that enhance public fishing access and angling opportunities and support public outreach and education that are essential to management of marine resources and habitats.  

The deadline for proposal submission is 5:00 p.m., Dec. 15, 2022, Submission guidelines can be found within the Request for Proposals document. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

For more information, contact Coastal Recreational Fishing License Project Coordinator Jamie Botinovch, at (252) 808-8004 or Jamie.Botinovch@ncdenr.gov.  

 

CRFL Program Coordinator 

Jamie Botinovch
Jamie.Botinovch@ncdenr.gov
252-808-8004