US Department of the Interior Announces New Funding for Wetland Conservation Projects and National Wildlife Refuges
Today, the Department of the Interior announced the approval of over $46.2 million in grants by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission. These funds will be used to conserve or restore 91,425 acres of wetland and related upland habitats across 17 states, benefiting waterfowl, shorebirds, and other bird species. The grants, provided through the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA), will be complemented by more than $99.1 million in matching funds from partners.
Additionally, the Commission approved over $11.7 million from the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund. This funding will support the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its partners in conserving habitats on seven national wildlife refuges in seven states, thereby enhancing opportunities for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, and other outdoor recreational activities.
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Secretary Deb Haaland emphasized the significance of these investments: “Investing in wetland conservation benefits both our environment and our economy. These grants will protect vital habitats for migratory birds and stimulate local economies through increased recreational opportunities.” She noted that this initiative aligns with the Biden-Harris administration’s America the Beautiful program, aimed at preserving lands and waters that support biodiversity, safeguard communities from climate change, and build resilience for future generations.
The Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, chaired by the Secretary of the Interior and authorized under NAWCA, has played a key role in protecting crucial waterfowl habitats and enhancing many popular waterfowl hunting and birding locations.
Service Director Martha Williams added, “Migratory birds and their habitats face significant threats from drought, rising temperatures, and sea level rise. These grants are vital for boosting wetland biodiversity, increasing habitat for billions of migrating birds, and expanding recreational opportunities for local communities.”
In addition, the Commission approved more than $11.7 million from the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund, providing the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its partners the ability to conserve habitat on seven national wildlife refuges across seven states. The acquisitions will expand public opportunities for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and outdoor recreational access.
“Investing in wetland conservation is an investment in the health of our environment and our economy. These grants will preserve essential habitats for migratory birds and boost local economies through enhanced recreational opportunities,” said Secretary Deb Haaland. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our commitment to the Biden-Harris administration’s America the Beautiful initiative by conserving America’s lands and waters that support biodiversity, protect communities from climate change , and foster resilience for future generations.”
The Migratory Bird Conservation Commission is chaired by the Secretary of the Interior and authorized under NAWCA. The Commission has helped conserve much of the nation’s most important waterfowl habitat and establish or enhance many of the country’s most popular destinations for waterfowl hunting and birding.
“Across the country, migratory birds and their habitat are at risk due to drought, warmer temperatures and rising seas, said Service Director Martha Williams. “Projects supported through these grants help bolster wetland biodiversity and increase habitat for billions of migrating birds while expanding outdoor recreation opportunities for surrounding communities.”
What states are the beneficiaries of these funds?