Funds from this grant award will be used to protect and enhance fisheries resources by providing review of environmental permit applications, conducting related field investigations as mandated by…

The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission received a Formula Grant award of $649,635 from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) under the Sport Fish Restoration program (CFDA 15.605), effective July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. The grant funds activities designed to protect and enhance fisheries resources through environmental permit application reviews, field investigations mandated by state and federal law, and technical guidance to public and private entities on aquatic conservation and restoration practices.

Specifically, the award supports habitat biologist services and technical assistance that promote the conservation, protection, and wise use of aquatic resources. Deliverables include providing guidance to agencies and individuals on environmentally sound habitat restoration and enhancement methods, conducting related field investigations, and expanding knowledge of technical restoration practices within the public and private sectors. These services are expected to result in increased angling opportunities through habitat restoration and preservation, improved fisheries management, enhanced angler access, and greater stakeholder support for future habitat conservation initiatives throughout North Carolina.

Funds from this grant award will be used to protect and enhance fisheries resources by providing review of environmental permit applications, conducting related field investigations as mandated by state and federal law, and providing technical guidance to the public and private sectors on environmentally sound methods of aquatic conservation and restoration. Providing technical guidance to public and private agencies and individuals promotesconservation, protection and wise use of aquatic resources. Proper guidance by habitat biologists results in increased angling opportunities through restoration and preservation of aquatic habitats, improved fisheries management and increased angler access. Expanding knowledge of technical methods in habitat restoration, protection and enhancement to public and private sectors also creates support for future habitat conservation.