The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration plans to invest $752 million to boost its research infrastructure and make $575 million in grants available for coastal resilience projects. The agency's plans are part of the framework for $2.6 billion allocated from the Inflation Reduction Act for programs to protect coastal communities and marine resources, officials said June 6.
“More than ever, communities across the country are facing the realities of climate change and extreme weather, whether it’s from prolonged drought, hazardous flooding, or widespread heatwaves,” agency Administrator Rick Spinrad told reporters during a press call. “Since January, there have been a record-setting seven disasters that have totaled $1 billion or more each in damages, highlighting the profound economic and social impacts of more frequent and costly climate and extreme weather events.”