WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Senator Jack Reed today announced that Rhode Island will receive a $459,840 State Wildlife Grant (SWG) to protect and preserve the state’s wildlife and their habitats.

“Rhode Island’s natural resources and wildlife are critical assets that make our state a great place to live.  This federal funding will help support conservation and environmental programs that protect wildlife and preserve open spaces,” said Reed, a member of the Appropriations subcommittee that allocates federal funding for U.S. Department of Interior programs.  “From our coastlines to our forests, protecting and preserving our diverse natural landscape is a smart investment in the health of our environment and our economy.”

The State Wildlife Grant program is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and provides federal funds to states for the development, revision, and implementation of wildlife conservation strategies to prevent species and habitats from becoming endangered. 

To become eligible for the funds, Rhode Island, under the leadership of the Department of Environmental Management (DEM), developed a Wildlife Action Plan.  The Wildlife Action Plan identifies the state’s Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) and key habitats, and assesses the condition of and threats to both.

“DEM has worked with The Nature Conservancy and the University of Rhode Island to develop a comprehensive plan to address wildlife conservation efforts over the coming decade,” said DEM Director Janet Coit.  “This federal grant will enable us to fund priority conservation efforts statewide and maintain Rhode Island's diverse natural landscape for its residents to enjoy and wildlife populations to thrive.  Our conservation efforts will benefit current and future generations by protecting important wildlife habitats and safeguarding our state's air, water and natural heritage.”

SWG funds are used to carry out this plan by addressing conservation needs, such as research, wildlife surveys, species and habitat management, and monitoring in Rhode Island.  These funds may also be used to update, revise or modify Rhode Island’s Wildlife Action Plan.

DEM has partnered with the Rhode Island Chapter of The Nature Conservancy and the University of Rhode Island (URI) to update its Wildlife Action Plan and is seeking public comment.

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