The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is awarding $25.7 million to support 28 projects in 11 coastal states to protect, restore or enhance over 10,000 acres of coastal wetlands and adjacent upland habitats and more than eight miles of streams and shoreline under the National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program.
State, local and Tribal governments, private landowners, conservation groups and other partners will contribute $16.8 million in additional funds to support these projects.
These grants will have wide-reaching benefits for local economies, people and wildlife – using nature-based solutions to boost coastal resilience, reduce flood risk, stabilize shorelines and protect natural ecosystems.
“ Conserving coastal wetlands is essential for supporting ecosystems that protect wildlife and our communities from climate change impacts ,” said Service Director Martha Williams .
“Wetlands provide critical habitat for countless species of wildlife and birds while also increasing our resilience to floods and storms. Through these grants, we prioritize the conservation of these important areas and help create a healthier environment for future generations, ensuring that nature and local communities can thrive together.”
States receiving funds this year are California, Hawai’i, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.