Title
Resolution to Approve Participation in 2016 Assistance to North American Wetlands Conservation Act Small Grants Program, to be Submitted by Ducks Unlimited
Memorandum
The attached Resolution authorizes the City of Ann Arbor to partner with Ducks Unlimited (DU), the grant applicant, in the Proposal for the United States Fish and Wildlife Service's (USFWS) North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) Small Grants Program for funding toward the purchase of development rights (PDR) for a property located in Northfield Township.
Applications to the USFWS NAWCA Small Grants Program are for funds up to 50% of the appraised fair market value of the development rights, to a maximum of $100,000. The NAWCA program is a competitive, matching grants program that supports public-private partnerships carrying out projects in the United States that further the goals of the North American Wetlands Conservation Act. These projects must involve long-term protection, restoration, and/or enhancement of wetlands and associated upland habitats for the benefit of all wetlands-associated migratory birds.
The NAWCA program is voluntary and provides matching funds for entities to protect wetlands by acquiring conservation easements or fee-title properties, or by completing wetland restoration projects. Completed applications must be submitted by November 3, 2016. It is expected that final decisions regarding project selections will be made by the NAWCA Council in February 2017, and that funds will be available by spring or early summer 2017.
DU has successfully applied for a number of USFWS NAWCA Small Grants in the past and is experienced in partnering with local governments and non-profit entities to complete acquisition projects with these funds. By partnering with DU, the City would be gaining the support of an experienced partner and increasing the likelihood of receiving grant funds.
If DU is ultimately awarded the grant based on its proposal to the NAWCA Smal...
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