The california department of fish & wildlife (cdfw) aquatic resource education program (AE) is administered through the office of communications, education and outreach

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) received a $3.446 million Formula Grant award from the U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service Region 8 under the Sport Fish Restoration federal grant program (CFDA #15.605) for the period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022.

Through its Aquatic Resource Education Program, CDFW will deliver conservation education, classroom aquarium programs, fishing programs, and interpretive services to broaden public awareness of California's aquatic ecosystems and encourage their wise use and enjoyment. Key activities include promoting partnerships in education, recreation, and conservation; encouraging educators to include related topics; and creating stewards of the state's aquatic resources. The funding will support CDFW's critical outreach efforts to promote sport fisheries restoration, conservation, management and public access to waters.

AE is divided into four projects: conservation education, classroom aquarium education program (caep), fishing-in-the-city (FIC) and interpretive services. These programs work together to accomplish the overall goals and mission of the department. Cdfw's AE program broadens public awareness, encourages educators to include conservation education topics into their instructional materials and create stewards of california's vital aquatic ecosystems. This is accomplished by promoting both internal and external partnerships in education, recreation and conservation. The AE program provides the department with a critical tool that promotes the wise use and enjoyment of california's aquatic natural resources.