The Department of the Interior has announced over $50.6 million in for wetland conservation and wildfire conservation. The funding has been greenlit by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, reinforcing the commitment to preserving and restoring vital wetlands across the United States.

This substantial investment, facilitated through the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA), bolsters the efforts of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its partners. The primary aim is to safeguard, restore, or enhance more than 106,600 acres of wetlands and associated upland habitats, benefiting waterfowl, shorebirds, and various bird species.

 

The Commission's approval includes more than $39.4 million in NAWCA grants, a sum that will be matched by partner contributions exceeding $74.1 million. Additionally, $11.24 million from the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund will be allocated to conserve land in two national wildlife refuges, expanding public access and recreational opportunities.

Martha Williams, Service Director, emphasized the importance of wetlands, noting that they serve as vital stopover sites for migratory birds and contribute to biodiversity while addressing environmental concerns like water quality and flooding.

The Migratory Bird Conservation Commission has played a pivotal role in conserving crucial waterfowl habitats and promoting wildlife-related activities such as birding and hunting. Since 1991, they've allocated more than $2.1 billion in funds, matched by over $4.3 billion in partner funds, resulting in a staggering $6.4 billion for wetland conservation.

https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/interior-department-announces-more-506-million-wetland-conservation-projects-and