NFWF and NOAA have announced over $6 million in grants focused on removing marine debris from recent hurricanes in Alaska, Florida, and Puerto Rico. The funding targets ecological health and community safety, addressing debris from major storms and their long-term impacts on affected regions.
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), together with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program, has announced the provision of over $6 million in grants aimed at removing marine debris resulting from recent hurricanes and natural disasters in coastal regions of Alaska, Florida, and Puerto Rico. This funding is a response to the significant environmental impact observed as a result of hurricanes Fiona, Ian, Nicole, and Typhoon Merbok.
These grants, organized through the Hurricane Response Marine Debris Removal Fund established in 2019, are designed to expedite the removal and proper disposal of marine debris. The initiative aims to alleviate the ongoing challenges faced by affected communities and protect vital fish and wildlife habitats.
According to Jeff Trandahl, the NFWF’s executive director, many communities continue to confront large debris fields long after immediate disaster relief has been provided. This marine debris is problematic not only for local residents but is also detrimental to wildlife and their environments.
The debris generated by these storms includes capsized boats and lost fishing gear, which pose a risk to navigational safety and the economic stability of coastal communities. Such environmental damage can persist, affecting both tourism and local ecosystems.
Jason Rolfe, NOAA’s Marine Debris Program’s Response Team Lead, highlighted the importance of this initiative in addressing the unique challenges presented by substantial post-disaster debris. The ongoing partnership between NFWF and NOAA seeks to mitigate these environmental impacts effectively.
The five projects funded by this latest grant will address critical issues in 19 rural Alaskan communities impacted by Typhoon Merbok and will facilitate the removal of left-behind debris in Puerto Rico and Florida, ensuring safer environments for both humans and wildlife.
Prioritizing projects that serve dual purposes, the Hurricane Response Marine Debris Removal Fund focuses on efforts that yield benefits for both human communities and ecological health. Projects that receive funding are carefully selected based on assessments conducted by response agencies to maximize impact.
A complete list of the grants awarded can be accessed for more detailed information.
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) is dedicated to the protection and restoration of fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats across the United States. Through various partnerships, the foundation has achieved a significant conservation impact since its founding in 1984. The NOAA Marine Debris Program plays a critical role in addressing the environmental consequences stemming from hurricanes and natural disasters, particularly concerning marine debris, which poses hazards to both human life and ecological balance.
The announcement by NFWF regarding the allocation of over $6 million in grants underscores the ongoing commitment to support communities affected by natural disasters. These efforts aim not only to clear debris but also to safeguard environmental health and improve the quality of life for residents in impacted areas. The collaboration between NFWF and NOAA exemplifies a proactive approach to addressing the dual challenges of human safety and wildlife conservation.
Original Source: www.nfwf.org
