The NFWF and NOAA have announced over $6 million in grants to facilitate the removal of marine debris in coastal regions affected by hurricanes. The funding aims to alleviate the long-term impacts of debris on communities, wildlife, and ecosystems. This initiative prioritizes projects that deliver benefits to both human and environmental health through expedient cleanup efforts.
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) along with the NOAA Marine Debris Program has announced the allocation of over $6 million in grants aimed at removing marine debris resulting from hurricanes and natural disasters in coastal areas such as Alaska, Florida, and Puerto Rico. This funding originates from the Fiscal Year 2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act, which seeks to mitigate the impacts of debris on local communities and wildlife habitats.
The Hurricane Response Marine Debris Removal Fund, established in 2019, allows for an expedited grants process to facilitate the cleanup of marine debris caused by severe storms. This initiative specifically addresses the long-term challenges posed by debris left in the aftermath of storms, including hazardous materials that can affect both human safety and local ecosystems.
Mr. Jeff Trandahl, executive director and CEO of NFWF, emphasizes the ongoing issues communities face years after storms, noting the substantial debris fields that persist and hinder recovery efforts. Jason Rolfe from the NOAA Marine Debris Program highlights the lasting environmental damage caused by such debris, underscoring the importance of the collaborative efforts between NOAA and NFWF to alleviate these challenges.
The recent grants will aid 19 rural communities in Alaska in assessing and reclaiming debris from sensitive tundra ecosystems following Typhoon Merbok, as well as targeting debris left in Puerto Rico and Florida. The program prioritizes projects that yield dual benefits for human communities and wildlife, focusing on targeted clean-up initiatives that can promptly address pressing concerns related to marine debris.
NFWF, established by Congress in 1984, has granted over 6,800 organizations funding to protect and restore fish, wildlife, and their habitats, amounting to a conservation impact of over $10 billion. The NOAA is dedicated to understanding and managing marine resources while addressing climate and environmental changes. Their partnership aims to strengthen community resilience against the deleterious effects of natural disasters.
The announcement regarding the $6 million in grants highlights an ongoing response to the significant impacts of hurricanes and natural disasters on coastal communities and ecosystems. The funding aims to address the critical issues stemming from marine debris, which includes dangers to both wildlife and human safety. The longstanding partnership between NFWF and NOAA reflects a comprehensive strategy to expedite recovery efforts, thereby benefiting local economies and environments severely affected by severe weather events. As debris accumulation can lead to prolonged hazards, these initiatives are vital for enhancing community resilience and environmental health.
In summary, the NFWF and NOAA Marine Debris Program’s allocation of over $6 million in grants represents a dedicated effort to address the challenges posed by marine debris resulting from hurricanes and natural disasters. This collaboration emphasizes the importance of immediate cleanup efforts to support affected coastal communities while protecting wildlife habitats. By prioritizing dual impact projects, the initiative strives to foster long-term recovery and resilience in vulnerable areas impacted by storm-related debris.
Original Source: www.nfwf.org
