The University of Wisconsin-Madison was awarded a $600,000 Project Grant by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Non-State Member Support for the Gulf Hypoxia Action Plan program (CFDA 66.487), effective January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2028. The purpose of this award is to support and advance the Gulf Hypoxia Action Plan through the University's work to maintain and facilitate a network of faculty and extension personnel. Key activities include:
Coordinating with the Gulf Hypoxia Program (GHP) and Sub-Basin Committees to develop and implement a basin-wide communications strategy to advance progress towards nutrient reduction goals, including outreach, publications, and showcasing successful nutrient management projects.
Synthesizing and sharing progress on monitoring, nutrient reduction strategy implementation, and challenges/opportunities in addressing the complexity of Gulf hypoxia, in collaboration with GHP members and affiliates.
Supporting and expanding existing Land Grant University (LGU) initiatives, such as the Confluence for Watershed Leaders and One Good Idea, to advance nutrient loss reduction goals.
Coordinating with Sub-Basin Committees, states, and tribal partners to help form and strengthen connections with disadvantaged communities across the basin, supporting communication and information sharing on conservation and nutrient reduction actions.
The University of Arkansas, Fayetteville is a sub-grantee under this award, with Dr. Speir serving as a co-PI responsible for leading strategic outcome 3, coordinating engagement activities, and directing the development of a research agenda on nutrient reduction strategies.