USACE Cost Share Program

Once established, the program will offer a 50 percent reimbursement for eligible aquatic invasive species projects across Connecticut. The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station’s Office of Aquatic Invasive Species (CAES OAIS) is collaborating with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to develop a project partnership agreement. This agreement will allow Connecticut municipalities, state agencies, residents, businesses, lake associations, and other non-governmental organizations to access these federal funds.

 

CAES OAIS will serve as the intermediary, reimbursing partner organizations for 50 percent of total project costs upon project completion. Eligible projects will be incorporated into a state work plan prepared by CAES OAIS, which is subject to approval by the USACE. State funds are eligible for reimbursement; however, federal funds are not. Therefore, any project that utilizes federal funding, regardless of the proportion, will be ineligible for reimbursement through this program.

 

Reimbursement covers the full scope of project expenses. For example, if a preliminary survey conducted by a consultant is required prior to undertaking management activities, the cost of that survey is also eligible for reimbursement. 

 

The USACE sets annual funding priorities based on available appropriations, which may change from year to year. In 2027, hydrilla-related projects will be the primary focus. If funding remains, secondary priority will be given to prevention projects such as watercraft decontamination stations and public outreach initiatives.

If you plan to conduct a hydrilla-related project in 2027 and we have not yet been in contact with you, please reach out to Riley.Doherty@ct.gov as soon as possible.