15.658 Natural Resource Damage Assessment, Restoration and Implementation

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is providing notice of its intent to award a single-source grant to the Friends of Heinz Refuge for a tidal wetland restoration and native plant establishment project. The project aims to restore natural resources and their services that have been injured by an oil discharge or hazardous substance release. The project includes reshaping two existing ponds, excavating a connecting tidal trench, reducing the slopes of the banks, removing invasive plant species, and establishing a variety of native shrubs, grasses, and forbs to improve habitat for birds and pollinators. Key aspects of the project include: • Restoring habitat for migratory birds and anadromous fish injured by the release of oil and contaminants • Providing feeding, nesting, and brood rearing habitats for waterfowl and other migratory birds • Providing spawning and nursery habitats for anadromous fish and nesting and rearing habitat for resident turtles • Controlling invasive species and maintaining vegetation The project will be implemented in three phases over five years, with a total estimated cost of $262,500.