Modified project summary/abstract section this financial assistance award will provide direct assistance to coastal environments, INC

Coastal Environments, Inc. received a $1,385,856 Cooperative Agreement from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) under the Marine Debris Program (CFDA 11.999), effective January 1, 2026, with completion by December 31, 2027. The primary deliverable is the removal of approximately 22 abandoned and run-down vessels from South Louisiana waterways, with work performed in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This marine debris removal initiative will eliminate navigation hazards and safety risks to recreational boaters while restoring commercial and recreational waterway access in major fishing, boating, and ecotourism areas.

The project supports NOAA's mission to prevent adverse environmental impacts of marine debris on coastal environments and contributes to local economic development by supporting at least ten jobs. The Marine Debris Program, authorized by Congress in 2006, funds removal, prevention, research, and monitoring activities to address marine debris impacts nationwide. Awards under this program typically range from $1 million to $4 million with performance periods of two to four years, positioning this award within the program's standard funding parameters for large-scale vessel removal operations.

To remove approximately 22 run-down and abandoned boats from the waters of south louisiana while supporting at least 10 jobs. Vessels will be removed from major recreational areas used for fishing, boating, and ecotourism, contributing to the local economy. The boats are a serious navigation hazard and dangerous for recreational boaters due to the risk of collisions. They also diminish the commercial and recreational use of waterways and are an eyesore on the landscape.