An estuary is a coastal area, such as a bay or sound, where fresh water from rivers and streams mixes with salt water from the ocean. Estuaries support commercial fisheries, national and international ports and a large number of recreational opportunities, making them vital to the economy. Almost one-third of the Gross National Product is produced in coastal counties.
Estuaries are essential to our nation's economic productivity.
These grants will help communities and businesses develop common-sense solutions for the economic and environmental future of these vital areas. These funds bring representatives from government agencies, local citizens, business leaders, educators and researchers together to develop a comprehensive plan for revitalizing and protecting the estuary. The funding also supports new technologies and innovative programs to help restore and protect the estuaries. After completing the management plan, the estuary programs will be eligible for additional funding to help support implementation. State governors nominate their estuaries to the National Estuary Program.