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

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has awarded a $3,140,613.00 Formula Grant to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) for the Sport Fish Restoration program (CFDA 15.605). The grant funds CDFW's Aquatic Resource Education (AE) Program, which encompasses four key projects: Conservation Education, Classroom Aquarium Education Program (CAEP), Fishing-in-the-City (FIC), and Interpretive Services. These programs work together to broaden public awareness, encourage conservation education, and create stewards of California's vital aquatic ecosystems. The grant supports CDFW's efforts to promote partnerships in education, recreation, and conservation to encourage the wise use and enjoyment of California's aquatic natural resources. The award period is from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.

AE is divided into four projects: conservationeducation, 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.cdfws AE program broadens public awareness, encourages educators to include conservation education topics intotheir instructional materials and create stewards of california s vital aquatic ecosystems. This is accomplishedby promoting both internal and external partnerships in education, recreation and conservation. The AE programprovides the department with a critical tool that promotes the wise use and enjoyment of california s aquaticnatural resources.