Building Coastal Resilience Capacity in Delaware
GrantID: 13712
Grant Funding Amount Low: $265,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $265,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Coastal Resilience Training Program: Overcoming Barriers in Delaware
Delaware faces substantial challenges in preparing for and mitigating the effects of coastal erosion and flooding due to rising sea levels. As one of the states most vulnerable to climate change, abundant data from the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control indicate that certain coastal areas are experiencing coastal erosion rates of up to 4 feet per year. This alarming trend not only threatens residential areas but also poses immense challenges to local economies that rely heavily on tourism, fishing, and recreation.
Local communities, particularly those in areas such as Rehoboth Beach and Lewes, face significant barriers to developing the necessary skills for effective coastal management. Many local workforce members are untrained or underprepared for the challenges posed by coastal resilience efforts. A recent report highlighted that over 50% of coastal workers in Delaware have insufficient training in strategies to address these environmental challenges, creating a critical need for targeted workforce development.
The funding initiative aims to build a workforce equipped with the skills needed for effective shoreline management, disaster preparedness, and ecosystem protection. The program targets individuals from diverse backgrounds, particularly those from communities historically underrepresented in environmental sciences. By providing training and skill-building workshops, the initiative prepares participants for jobs in environmental management and policy-making roles critical to addressing coastal challenges in the state.
Through this funding, participants will learn practical skills that are tailored to Delaware's unique coastal environment, which faces distinct challenges compared to neighboring states like Maryland and New Jersey. The program encompasses hands-on training sessions that cover topics such as the impacts of climate change on local ecosystems, the principles of shoreline restoration, and emergency preparedness strategies. Participants will also gain vital experience through partnerships with local agencies and organizations, reinforcing community resilience.
Ultimately, Delaware's emphasis on workforce training for coastal resilience differentiates it from other states, creating a proactive framework to address environmental challenges. By preparing a skilled workforce, this initiative not only enhances the state’s capacity to respond to climate-related threats but also promotes inclusive participation in critical environmental efforts.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
