Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund Announcement Speakers
Wilmington, DE (December 9, 2024) – The Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed is celebrating a significant milestone as the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) announces 45 Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund (DWCF) awards, totaling over $17 million. This funding, which includes supplemental funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is made possible through the Delaware River Basin Conservation Act (DRBCA) and is administered by the NFWF in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).
Grantees have committed nearly $20.7 million in matching funds, bringing the total conservation impact to $38 million. These funds will support critical restoration and protection projects throughout the Delaware River Watershed, including habitat restoration, improved water quality, and expanded public access to outdoor recreation.
Of the 45 projects funded, 32 are led by members of the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed, collectively receiving $11.5 million and generating $12.7 million in matching funds, for a combined conservation impact of $24.2 million. These projects include efforts such as creating a waterfront schoolyard, enhancing wildlife habitat, and increasing opportunities for community engagement and recreation.
This event also serves as an opportunity to thank Senator Tom Carper (D-DE), who has announced his retirement, for his unwavering leadership on clean water issues and his instrumental role in advancing the health of the Delaware River Watershed. Senator Carper introduced the original Delaware River Basin Conservation Act in 2016, establishing the foundation for the DWCF and its success in driving national attention and resources to the watershed.
“We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Senator Carper, who has been a tireless advocate for clean water and a champion of the Delaware River Watershed,” said Meagan Birkenmaier, Communications Manager, Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed. “His leadership has been instrumental in raising awareness of the watershed’s importance and securing the resources needed for its protection and restoration. As we celebrate today’s achievements, we acknowledge that the work is far from over. It is essential for Congress to maintain its commitment to funding the Delaware River Basin Restoration Program (DRBRP), ensuring the DWCF continues to safeguard and enhance the watershed for future generations.”
The $17 million awarded this year represents the largest DWCF grant slate to date, underscoring the growing momentum and commitment to conservation within the watershed. The Coalition is proud of the role its members play in leading these impactful projects and advancing shared goals of watershed-wide restoration, protection, and equity.
“We are thrilled to see such significant investment in the Delaware River Watershed,” said Grant LaRouche, Steering Committee Co-Chair, Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed. “These projects, many of which are led by Coalition members, will bring tangible benefits to our communities and ecosystems. This commitment reflects the importance of continuing our work to ensure the watershed remains a vital resource for all.”
The Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed is grateful for the partnerships that make this progress possible and will continue advocating for robust funding and policies that support the health and sustainability of the Delaware River Basin.
See the full list of 2024 Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund grants here.
About the Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund (DWCF)
Grants were awarded through the Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund (DWCF), a program administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF). The DWCF is funded by the US Fish and Wildlife Service to achieve the goals of the Delaware River Basin Conservation Act. The Act guides and supports federal, state, regional and local partners to collaboratively identify, prioritize, and implement habitat restoration and conservation activities within the watershed. Since 2018, the Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund has funded 239 projects that provide vital support to fish and wildlife, help support economic vitality, and contribute to quality of life through public access and outdoor recreation opportunities. The Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed has advocated, year over year, for robust federal funding to support this essential program
###
About Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed
The Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed was formed in 2012 to protect and restore the land and waters in the Delaware River Basin. We amplify the collective power of 190 member organizations and other stakeholders as we advocate for a healthy and protected watershed with an inclusive, unified voice. The Coalition convenes member and non-member organizations, builds capacity, coordinates communications, and advances policy at the federal and state levels. For more information, please visit www.delriverwatershed.org.
Contact:
Meagan Birkenmaier, Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed
meagan.schaefer@Delriverwatershed.org | 609-330-4883