Migratory Bird Conservation Commission this June approved 27 projects nationwide for funding under the North American Wetland Conservation Act (NAWCA).  Nine projects in six states within the Upper Mississippi River and Great Lakes Region Joint Venture will receive federal funds exceeding $584,000.  The NAWCA Grants Program requires, at a minimum, the grant amount to be matched equally with non-federal contributions.  This is typically accomplished by partners from State, Tribal and other non-governmental organizations.  The combined non-federal partner contribution for this effort is $805,000.

The six states that will receive funding for habitat work are Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Nebraska.  Collectively, these projects will protect, restore and enhance 1,005 acres of wetland and 2,513 acres wetland associated upland habitat.

All of these projects will benefit priority migratory birds and other wetland associated wildlife.  Individually and cumulatively, these projects will advance the goals identified in the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, the 2007 Upper Mississippi River and Great Lakes Region Joint Venture Implementation Plan, Partners in Flight, U.S. Shorebird Plan and the North American Waterbird Conservation Plan.  This work will also help achieve goals identified in State Wildlife Action Plans for each state.