Coastal Ecosystem Health Research in North Carolina
GrantID: 22413
Grant Funding Amount Low: $15,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $32,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Coastal Ecosystem Health Research in North Carolina
North Carolina's coastal regions are experiencing profound ecological stress due to climate change, pollution, and habitat loss. The state boasts a rich diversity of coastal ecosystems, but with rising sea levels and increasing storm intensity, maintaining these ecosystems has become a critical challenge. Reports suggest that habitats such as marshlands and estuaries are experiencing significant degradation, with approximately 20% of coastal wetland area lost since the 1980s. This presents substantial barriers to understanding and preserving biodiversity.
The main beneficiaries of this targeted funding will include academic research institutions, conservation groups, and state agencies tasked with protecting North Carolina's coastal ecosystems. Local researchers and conservation practitioners face the unique task of quantifying and addressing the ongoing impacts of environmental change on species diversity and ecosystem health in the state’s coastal areas.
Funding for coastal ecosystem health research will directly confront these scientific barriers by providing resources for comprehensive studies on species interactions and the impacts of climate change. The initiative aims to develop data-driven conservation strategies that allow stakeholders to understand and mitigate negative impacts on marine and terrestrial wildlife. This approach is crucial for preserving the state’s rich biodiversity and ensuring resilience in coastal ecosystems.
The funding outcomes will focus on documenting the health of coastal ecosystems and species interactions that are critical for ecological stability. Targeted studies will analyze not only how climate impacts species but also how changes in land use and pollution affect existing habitats. This information is vital as it informs conservation strategies, ensuring healthy ecosystems that can support diverse wildlife.
For North Carolina, the importance of these outcomes lies in their ability to safeguard coastal biodiversity, which underpins both environmental integrity and economic activity. The implementation of successful outcomes requires a collaborative approach, engaging local communities in research processes and decision-making. By integrating fossil and current data, researchers can build a comprehensive understanding of ecological changes, leading to effective management practices that protect North Carolina’s valuable coastal ecosystems.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
