The Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council (the Council) has just released a draft Initial Funded Priorities List (draft FPL).
Using funds from the settlement with Transocean Deepwater Inc., the Council is seeking to provide near-term, on-the-ground ecosystem benefits, while also conducting planning activities designed to build a foundation for future success as additional funds become available from other parties.
The Council is proposing to focus on 10 key watersheds across the Gulf in order to concentrate and leverage funds to address critical ecosystem needs in high priority locations. The Council also proposes a suite of Gulf-wide investments designed to support holistic ecosystem restoration and lay the foundation for future success.
This draft FPL would fund approximately $139.6 million in restoration activities such as hydrologic restoration, land conservation and planning for large-scale restoration projects. In addition, the Council is reserving approximately $43.6 million for implementation of additional activities in the future, subject to further Council review.
The draft FPL is available for public and tribal review and comment through September 28, 2015.
The Council will host a series of public meetings across the Gulf Coast to discuss the draft FPL and seek public and tribal comments.
“ This draft FPL focuses on key watersheds and estuaries across the Gulf, using foundational restoration techniques tailored to the needs of specific areas ,” said Justin R. Ehrenwerth, executive director of the Council . “ We’re fortunate to have a diverse and dedicated group of stakeholders who have helped to get us to this point. Once again, we ask for your feedback and assistance in ensuring that we do the right thing for the Gulf. ”
The draft FPL can be found on the Council’s website .