The D’Olive Bay Coastal Wetlands Acquisition will receive a $498,000 grant through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Coastal Wetland Conservation Grant Program.
U.S. Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt awarded more than $20 million to 22 projects in 11 coastal states for coastal wetland conservation projects on Wednesday.
The Alabama program, led by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, will conserve 212 acres of coastal wetlands obtained through a 112 acre donation from the city of Daphne and Village Point Foundation and a 100-acre purchase from a private landowner.
The project aims to protect sensitive species and create additional public fish and wildlife-based recreation opportunities.
“Through the National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program, we are demonstrating our commitment to promoting coastal sustainability with healthy ecosystems, vibrant economies and resilient communities,” Bernhardt said. “These projects will continue successful conservation partnerships with numerous public, non-profit and private stakeholders while providing public education and research opportunities as well as conserving thousands of acres of coastal habitat.”
An additional $26.7 million total in grants will be given to these projects through state and local governments, private landowners, conservation groups and other partners. The Alabama project will require an additional $453,000, bringing the total cost for the project to $951,000.
Projects receiving funds this year are located in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin.
“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.”
