COLUMBUS, Ohio — As part of Governor Mike DeWine’s H2Ohio initiative, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources is encouraging canoe livery owners to apply for H2Ohio Healthy Rivers Livery grants to bolster litter cleanup efforts in waterways across the state. Applications are being accepted now through Thursday, April 10.

The H2Ohio Healthy Rivers Livery grants award up to $10,000 in funding to support cleanup efforts in Ohio’s rivers and streams. The program addresses long-standing cleanup needs in local communities. Detailed information about grant submission can be found on our website.

The grant program supports livery owners in efforts to remove trash from waterways.

“These are the types of conservation partners that truly make a difference in preserving and protecting our natural resources,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “Canoe liveries are boots on the ground that can take action swiftly to combat litter if they have the proper tools at hand.”

In 2024, over $140,000 was awarded to 17 liveries across the state. The liveries worked with volunteers to remove more than 35,000 pounds of litter and 700 scrap tires from Ohio’s rivers.

Liveries that are awarded grants may use the funds to aid in various aspects of clean-up efforts, such as:

• Cleanup tools (grabbers, bags, shovels, prybars, gloves, etc.)
• Dumpsters and associated fees
• Special/large waste disposal
• Cleanup events and advertising/promotion

There are requirements for grants recipients to follow to receive funds. You can access the application and learn more about those requirements at h2.ohio.gov.

H2Ohio is Governor DeWine’s statewide water quality initiative designed to address complex issues impacting Ohio’s waters. Launched in 2019, H2Ohio uses a comprehensive approach guided by science and data to reduce algal blooms, stop pollution, and improve access to clean drinking water by supporting best farming practices, road salt runoff reduction, litter cleanup, dam removal, land conservation, and water infrastructure revitalization. For more information visit h2.ohio.gov.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.