NFWF and NOAA have announced $6 million in grants for removing marine debris caused by hurricanes and natural disasters in coastal Alaska, Florida, and Puerto Rico. The funding aims to mitigate the negative impacts these debris have on communities and ecosystems. Through the Hurricane Response Marine Debris Removal Fund, priority is given to projects that directly address and facilitate the clean-up of marine debris.
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and the NOAA Marine Debris Program have announced grants exceeding $6 million aimed at removing marine debris resulting from hurricanes and natural disasters in coastal regions such as Alaska, Florida, and Puerto Rico. These funds stem from the Fiscal Year 2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act, which seeks to mitigate impacts on communities, industries, and wildlife habitats. Through a streamlined process initiated by the Hurricane Response Marine Debris Removal Fund, these grants prioritize direct clean-up efforts.
According to Jeff Trandahl, Executive Director and CEO of NFWF, even years after hurricanes, many communities grapple with extensive debris fields that continue to pose challenges. Not only does this debris hinder recovery for impacted communities, but it also adversely affects local wildlife and their habitats. Debris resulting from such storms can include capsized vessels, wrecked docks, and considerable quantities of land-based material washed ashore, all of which can compromise community safety and tourism.
Jason Rolfe, the Response Team Lead of the NOAA Marine Debris Program, emphasized that natural disasters create substantial debris challenges that can have prolonged environmental effects. The collaborative efforts between NFWF and NOAA are fundamental in addressing these issues effectively. The grants announced will particularly focus on benefitting both human communities and wildlife, with projects set to assist 19 rural communities in assessing and reclaiming debris across Alaska.
This announcement highlights the continued efforts to address the aftermath of severe storms and their impact on coastal communities. Marine debris poses environmental hazards that impede both safety and ecological health, making swift and effective removal essential. The importance of collaboration between federal entities, such as NFWF and NOAA, is underscored in the initiatives aimed at ensuring a clean and safe coastal environment for communities affected by disasters.
In conclusion, the recent announcement of $6 million in grants by NFWF and NOAA aims to combat the lingering effects of hurricanes by facilitating the removal of marine debris in coastal areas. These efforts are crucial for restoring the safety and health of impacted ecosystems while aiding local communities’ recovery from disasters. The collaboration reinforces the commitment to both environmental conservation and community support.
Original Source: www.nfwf.org
