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Tuesday, August 7, 2012

Over $2.1 Million in Federal Funding for Coastal Protection in Puerto Rico

San Juan, Puerto Rico - Resident Commissioner Pedro Pierluisi announced today that Puerto Rico will receive over $2.1 million in federal funds to administer, protect and conserve its coastal zone.

The funds are being disbursed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration pursuant to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, known as ARRA. The funding will be provided to the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) for use towards the Puerto Rico Coastal Zone Management program.

“These funds are essential to sustain and enhance DNER’s ability to effectively manage Puerto Rico’s coastal resources. Strategies for preservation, conservation and restoration will benefit all Island residents, especially future generations,” said Pierluisi.

The purpose of the Puerto Rico Coastal Zone Management program is to guide the public and private sectors in coastal development, to effectively manage coastal resources, to promote sustainable development, and to further scientific research and education.

The $2,159,000 in federal funds will provide ongoing support for designation and management of a Natural Reserve and Special Planning Area. The funding will also be used for geographic data collection, watershed planning and management, enforcement of natural resource laws and regulations, education and outreach, and public access.

In addition, the award will support new initiatives to address development and implementation of a Coastal Wetlands Strategic Plan