Federal and state environmental agencies, alongside officials from New England and New York, have announced the awarding of 31 grants totaling over $12 million. These funds are aimed at improving the health of Long Island Sound through various projects in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and New York. The grants will be matched by contributions from grantees, resulting in a total conservation impact of $25 million.
The initiatives funded by the Long Island Sound Futures Fund will focus on enhancing water quality by preventing significant amounts of stormwater and nitrogen pollution from entering the sound. Additionally, these projects aim to remove marine debris and plan for coastal habitat restoration. They are expected to engage more than half a million people through educational programs designed to raise awareness about the sound's health.
“Across the Long Island Sound watershed, the projects funded by these grants will help lift up local communities and enable critical work to prevent pollution and improve water quality,” stated David W. Cash, EPA New England Regional Administrator. He emphasized that these efforts reflect EPA's commitment to a healthy Long Island Sound.
Lisa F. Garcia, EPA Region 2 Administrator, noted that “EPA’s commitment to the Long Island Sound Futures Fund reflects our dedication to protecting and restoring one of our region’s most valuable natural resources.” She highlighted how these projects also support community resilience against climate change.
Since its inception in 2005 through EPA's Long Island Sound Office and NFWF, the Futures Fund has significantly contributed to environmental improvements in the region with investments totaling $68 million across numerous projects.
Jeff Trandahl, executive director and CEO of NFWF, acknowledged that “the funding awarded today represents a commitment to continue the progress made over many decades toward a healthier, cleaner watershed.”
Katie Dykes from Connecticut's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection mentioned that “the $8.4 million in grants coming to 14 recipients in Connecticut also leverages over $7.3 million in local funding.”
Sean Mahar from New York State DEC commented on how collaboration has led to reduced pollution levels benefiting marine life and public health: “DEC congratulates and thanks the Long Island Sound Futures Fund awardees for advancing projects that build on this progress.”
Long Island Sound serves as an important estuary providing both economic benefits and habitat for diverse species while supporting millions living within its watershed.
