On Aug. 1, the Department of Commerce announced a large investment to enhance marine sanctuaries across the U.S., according to a press release.
"NOAA’s national marine sanctuaries facilities are a gateway to our greatest underwater treasures — and key to maintaining them," U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo said. "This funding will help ensure facilities are resilient in a changing climate, and represent President Biden’s commitment to investing in America and furthering the conservation and restoration of our coasts and Great Lakes."
The Department of Commerce and NOAA will invest nearly $50 million from the Inflation Reduction Act to enhance infrastructure across six national marine sanctuaries. These investments will bolster climate resilience, expand research and conservation capacities and foster public engagement, contributing to the protection of underwater sites across the United States, the release stated.
The Inflation Reduction Act's $3.3 billion investment empowers NOAA to enhance resilience against weather and climate events, improve research capabilities, update facilities and support vulnerable communities. The initiative emphasizes collaboration, education and conservation efforts in the face of climate change, promoting sustainable management of precious marine resources and cultural heritage.
“NOAA’s facilities — many of which are located along the coast and Great Lakes — are not immune from climate hazards. This funding from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda will strengthen NOAA’s sanctuary facilities so they are prepared for climate change and able to better serve visitors as they explore and learn about our ocean and coasts,” NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad said.
