Estuaries and the National Estuary Program

What Is An Estuary? Now You Know!

Estuaries and the National Estuary Program

The NEP is a collaborative, efficient, and adaptable ecosystem-based network of organizations that protects and restores 28 estuaries of national significance.

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Estuary Programs

Local National Estuary Programs - Photo Credit: Sarasota Bay Estuary Program

Estuaries Mini-Poster

What can you do to protect estuaries? Estuaries are found where rivers meet the sea. Clean estuaries sustain vibrant economies and healthy coastal communities.

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Competitive Grant 30-Day Public Notice

The Protect and Restore America’s Estuaries Act (Public Law No: 116-337) amended the Clean Water Act section 320 competitive grant program criteria. In allocating funding for this grant program, Congress has encouraged EPA to work in consultation with the NEP directors to identify worthy projects and activities. Any organizations or persons that would also like to provide feedback to the EPA on the type and nature of activities that EPA should seek applications for under this competitive grant program should send their input to nep-rfa@epa.gov by July 9, 2021.

NEP Coastal Watersheds Grant Program

Interactive Story Map

Learn about the 28 local NEPs, the issues they face, and how partnerships coordinate local actions. | View a text only version

NEPmap

Explore NEP habitat protection and restoration projects, along with other key water quality and land use data.

US EPA