The public purpose for this agreement is to staff AIS check stations at lake tschida heart butte reservoir to ensure inspections of watercrafts are performed

The Bureau of Reclamation awarded $250,000 to Tri-Cities Joint Job Development under the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (CFDA 15.517) program on June 1, 2025, for aquatic invasive species (AIS) management at Lake Tschida Heart Butte Reservoir in Elgin, North Dakota. The project delivers staffing services at AIS inspection stations to conduct watercraft inspections and prevent the spread of invasive species through proper vessel decontamination procedures.

The grant funds the operational expenses and seasonal personnel required to staff two decontamination stations at the reservoir through October 31, 2026. These facilities provide watercraft owners with cleaning and inspection services, serving as critical infrastructure for AIS prevention and control efforts. The Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act program supports such initiatives by providing financial assistance to improve fish and wildlife habitat associated with water systems managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, with particular emphasis on invasive species management and environmental conservation.

Two decamination stations are to be purchased for lake tschida heart butte reservoir and staffed by the seasonal employees there. These stations ensure assistance in preventing AIS spreading and allow for proper cleaning of vessels.