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Workers remove a fish passage barrier on Warren Creek in Humboldt County, California |
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is seeking applications for projects that will restore coastal and marine habitats under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, in an unprecedented effort to jumpstart the economy, create save several thousand jobs, and restore valuable coastal and marine habitat. Congress has entrusted NOAA with up to $170 million for habitat restoration in coastal areas including the Great Lakes. NOAA is accepting applications for a variety of habitat restoration projects - including wetlands restoration, dam removals, shellfish restoration, and coral reef restoration.
These habitats support valuable fisheries and protected resources, improve the quality of our water, provide recreational opportunities for the public’s use and enjoyment, and buffer our coastal communities from the impacts of storms and sea level rise. Projects funded through NOAA have strong habitat restoration components that provide social and economic benefits for people and their communities in addition to long-term ecological habitat improvements.
To compete well, applicants will have to demonstrate that their project can achieve significant ecological benefits, maximize jobs creation/preservation, and are “shovel-ready.” Typical investments by NOAA are expected to range between $1.5 million to $10 million per project. Applications are due by April 6, 2009. To read the full announcement, including information on eligibility and how to submit an application, please read the Federal Funding Opportunity below.
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