The Department of the Interior announced that more than $46.2 million in grants was approved by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission today, which will conserve or restore 91,425 acres of wetland and associated upland habitats for waterfowl, shorebirds and other birds in 17 states. These grants, made through the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA), will be matched by more than $99.1 million in partner funds.
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."
North American Wetlands Conservation Act
NAWCA is the only federal grant program dedicated to the conservation of wetland habitats for migratory birds. Since 1991, over 7,000 partners have received more than $2.28 billion in grants for roughly 3,300 projects. Those partners have contributed another $4.53 billion in matching funds to improve more than 32.6 million acres of habitat, totaling more than $6.8 billion for wetland conservation that also benefits people, birds and other wildlife. Through NAWCA, federal funds are typically leveraged at twice the legally required dollar-for-dollar match ratio. Partners in NAWCA projects include private landowners, state, Tribal and local governments, conservation organizations, sporting groups, land trusts and corporations.
The Commission also received a report today on 22 NAWCA small grants, which were approved by the North American Wetlands Conservation Council in March 2024. Small grants are awarded for projects up to $250,000 to encourage new grantees and partners to carry out smaller-scale conservation work. The Commission has authorized the Council to approve these projects up to $5 million. This year, more than $4.7 million in grants was matched by more than $10 million in partner funds.
More than half of Endangered Species Act listed species rely on wetlands for essential habitat. The NAWCA funding will benefit 11 ESA listed bird species and 68 species identified as Birds of Conservation Concern, which helps prevent species from being listed.
