CELCP
Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program
DEFINED: An estuary is a partially enclosed coastal body of water, having an open connection with the Great Lake or ocean, where freshwater from an inland river is mixed with water from the Great Lake or ocean.
Estuaries represent one of the most sensitive and ecologically important habitats on earth. They provide sanctuary for many species of waterfowl, store nutrients for larval and juvenile marine life, and serve as breeding grounds for many desirable species of ocean fish and can provide excellent harbors.
The CELCP grant application period for FY 2010 closed at 5 pm February 17, 2009. We anticipate the next grant period (FFY 2011) will open in January 2010. Potential applicants may contact the state CELCP Coordinator any time to discuss project eligibility.
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The Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program (CELCP) helps protect coastal and estuarine lands considered important for their ecological, conservation, recreational, historical or aesthetic value or that are threatened by conversion from a natural or recreational state to other uses.
The program provides federal funding for projects that ensure conservation of these areas for the benefit of future generations, and that can be effectively managed and protected.
- Grants funded under the CELCP require a 1 to 1 match from non-federal sources.
- If desired, Ohio's CELCP Coordinator will meet with interested applicants.
- Up to three projects, each with a maximum request of $3 million, are referred to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for final consideration and funding.
Eligibility for federal CELCP funding is contingent upon a state's development of a plan for conservation of remaining open and natural areas. Through the Ohio Coastal Management Program, the Office of Coastal Management created such a plan for Ohio.
Ohio's CELCP Plan Process
Ohio's CELCP Plan was developed according to NOAA federal guidelines (pdf).
Public involvement by watershed residents and local, state and federal organizations has been a critical first step in developing Ohio's Plan. The first series of public meetings were held in July 2005 at locations throughout the Lake Erie watershed.
These and subsequent meetings provided a forum for discussion about priority areas for conservation within the Lake Erie watershed, including conservation needs, threats and values. Participants contributed information on existing conservation plans and focus areas. Ohio's CELCP Plan was submitted to NOAA for approval in June 2006.
For more information:
Contact CELCP Project Coordinator Sandra Kosek-Sills at the ODNR Office of Coastal Management 419-626-7980.
Links
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