WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Elkhorn Slough Foundation has been awarded a $3,940,734 grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The coastal restoration funds were included in the Recovery Act, which was signed into law in February.

"Funds from the Recovery Act continue to flow into communities throughout the nation, injecting needed capital into economies and creating jobs for local residents," said Congressman Sam Farr (D-Carmel). "As with all the other projects that we've seen locally, this project will save local jobs and pump more money into our ailing economy."

The Elkhorn Slough grant will provide long-term protection and erosion control for seven acres of tidal wetlands and protect critical coastal infrastructure. The selection of projects was a highly competitive process and evaluated a variety of biological and economic criteria.

California will see nine NOAA projects funded for a total of more than $31 million. These projects are expected to create 190 jobs statewide. Nationwide, 50 coastal restoration grants were awarded for a total of $167 million

"These Recovery Act projects will put Americans to work while restoring our coasts and combating climate change," said Commerce Secretary Gary Locke. "They reflect our investment in sound science and commitment to help strengthen local economies."

NOAA Administrator Jane Lubchenco added: "NOAA is investing in green jobs for Americans to restore habitat for valuable fish and wildlife and strengthen coastal communities, making them more resilient to storms, sea-level rise and other effects of climate change. In addition to the immediate jobs created by the projects, stronger and healthier coastal communities will boost our nation's long-term economic health."

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