This action approves an award in the amount of $1,321,048 to northwest florida state college to enhance habitat and protect the water quality of the gulf of mexico

This project will demonstrate an innovative approach to stormwater treatment that will reduce nutrient loads in priority waters.activities:activities to be performed include the propagation of widgeon grass and the restoration of a minimum of three stormwater outfalls in the choctawhatchee BAY system. Local opportunity youth, known as the 'oyster corps', will be trained to carry out propagation, restoration, and project monitoring components. Project results will be disseminated to regional watershed organizations.subrecipient:subrecipient activities will be funded to install, manage, and provide technical support to multiple seagrass propagation sites; and to create and manage the volunteer oyster corps team. Outcomes:deliverables and outcomes are the restoration of approximately 8.1 acres, a 20% - 40% reduction in water column nutrients, and a 30% - 60% reduction in water column turbidity. Public benefits include better water quality and clarity, improved fishing and recreational opportunities, and increased community resilience. The residents of fort walton beach, the town of cinco bayou, and freeport, florida will benefit from improved habitat and water quality.