The Department of the Interior and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced on May 8 that more than $20 million had been awarded to 22 different projects in 11 states for protection and restoration of more than 7,000 acres of coastal wetlands. The grants were provided through the FWS National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program which is funded in part through excise taxes paid by recreational boaters and anglers. The approved projects will be matched with nearly $27 million of funding through state and local governments, non-profit organizations, private landowners, and other partners. Restoration of coastal wetlands helps to stabilize shorelines, reduce flood risk and boost coastal resilience while conserving natural ecosystems.

“These grants are a superb example of states, local governments and private landowners working hand-in-hand with the federal government to ensure coastal communities and their irreplaceable natural environments continue to thrive for future generations,” said U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Principal Deputy Director Margaret Everson. “In addition to providing myriad conservation and economic benefits, these grants will increase recreational opportunities for anglers, boaters, hunters and wildlife-watchers across the nation.”