Coral World Ocean and Reef Initiative, Inc.

Amount Appropriated?

$900,000

FFID tracks stages 1–2 — stages 3–5 vary by agency, assistance type, and earmark structure.

Project Description

The requested funding would be used by the non-profit CWORI to provide the funding, personnel, infrastructure and resources required for coral rescue and restoration activities across the St. Thomas and St. John region of the Virgin Islands. CWORI is already active in coral restoration activities in the Virgin Islands. This project will further complement and support more rapid response to emerging threats to coral reef and other marine life in the Virgin Islands, including improved sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation. Total estimated cost of the project is $950,000. Therefore, in order to meet cost-share requirements, I am requesting $900,000 for this project. This project is a sound use of taxpayer funding because the Virgin Islands is disproportionately vulnerable to climate change and impacted by severe hurricanes and other extreme coastal weather events. The overall economic and environmental health of the United States territory of the Virgin Islands depends on healthy coral reefs and other nature-based infrastructure and marine life surrounding the islands. To better protect and restore the coral reefs and marine environment in the territory, it is critical to have state-of-the art research and rehabilitation capabilities on island to address localized problems and support affected communities.\r\n \r\n