The Federal government is not involved in developing or prioritizing state projects, but is responsible for ensuring that the Programs are effective in meeting the sport fish and wildlife restoration goals of each state. State fish and wildlife agencies apply for their apportioned funds through a grant process. States must provide at least 25 percent of the grant project cost, often using hunting or fishing license revenues for the match.
Payment is made on a cost reimbursable basis after the work is completed.
However, before a state can even be considered for participation in the program, it must have enacted legislation prohibiting the diversion of hunting license fees for any purpose other than the administration of the state fish and wildlife agency. This requirement is a rigid one in order to guarantee that both federal and state earmarked funds will be used solely for fish and wildlife restoration and management purposes. Click here to check out the fish and wildlife agency in your state.