Sources of Support

Support for restoration projects is provided by a wide range of sources from all levels of government, corporate, and non-profit organizations. Massachusetts is very fortunate to have a strong coalition of restoration partners that are steadfast in their commitment to restoration. This commitment is led by the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs.

The federal agencies of Coastal America provide the bulk of construction funding for most restoration projects in Massachusetts. These agencies have committed significant resources to assisting restoration efforts in partnership with state and local entities. They offer numerous grant programs and restoration services that match state and local funds -- often at ratios of 2:1 or greater. This federal support creates a significant incentive for non-federal contributions and makes possible many projects that would otherwise remain dormant due to lack of resources.

At the state level, several agencies, offices, and programs within EOEA support restoration efforts (see state partnerships list). Some work directly on restoration activities (such as the River Restore and Anadromous Fish programs), while others (such as the Departments of Environmental Protection and Conservation and Recreation) provide resources to help complete projects. WRP offers two internal program sources of Project Funding.

Local governments often provide critical assistance for projects within their borders. Whether sponsoring projects directly through budget appropriations, or providing in-kind services such as DPW labor and equipment, active local support often bridges the funding gap for project implementation.

The Corporate Wetlands Restoration Partnership, now an international program, began right here in Massachusetts in 1999. As of spring 2004, over 44 companies have donated more than $1.5 million in funds and services to 38 different aquatic habitat restoration projects through the Massachusetts CWRP. This outstanding level of support demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships for achieving environmental results.

National, regional, and local non-profits have provided significant support for several restoration projects. Assistance comes in many forms, including sponsorship of restoration projects on NP lands (such as the Trustees of Reservations' Worlds End site) and direct funding of construction activities (exemplified in project donations made by Ducks Unlimited and The Nature Conservancy).