Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection and Restoration

The National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program (15.614) supports the long term conservation, restoration, and enhancement of coastal wetland ecosystems across coastal and Great Lakes states, U.S. territories, and insular areas. Authorized by the Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection and Restoration Act and funded through the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, the program helps maintain healthy coastal environments that benefit fish, wildlife, coastal communities, and outdoor recreation.

The program’s purpose is to assist States in carrying out priority coastal wetland conservation and restoration projects. States identify the areas and actions most important for maintaining or improving their coastal resources and use grant funds to acquire key coastal lands or to restore, enhance, or manage wetland habitats. These wetlands contribute to shoreline stability, water quality, ecological function, and recreational opportunities.

The program provides match grants to coastal states, Great Lakes states, and eligible U.S. Territories. Louisiana is not eligible because it receives separate funding under the Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection and Restoration Act. State and territorial natural resource agencies may work with tribes, local governments, nonprofit organizations, and private landowners to develop and implement projects.

The program is unique in its national competitive structure and long record of supporting State led conservation priorities. Since 1992, it has provided substantial annual funding, typically between $18 million and $23 million, to protect and restore important coastal habitats. Individual projects may receive up to $1 million in federal funding and require a nonfederal match of 50 percent, or 25 percent for States with qualifying land conservation programs. For American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the match requirements are reduced. Through these investments, States advance their coastal conservation priorities, support fish and wildlife, strengthen community and ecological resilience, and enhance recreational opportunities for the public.

States with a dedicated fund for land conservation are required to provide a minimum cost share equal to 25 percent of the total project costs, including requested program funds and eligible match. All other States are required to provide a 50 percent cost share. We waive the first $200,000 of match for the following insular areas: American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.