The North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA), enacted December 13, 1989, provides funding and administrative direction for implementation of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan and the Tripartite Agreement on wetlands between Canada, U.S. and Mexico.
It is the only federal grants program dedicated to protect, enhance, restore, and manage a diversity of wetland ecosystems for migratory birds. These grant projects not only benefit birds and other wildlife, but also help expand public opportunities for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and other outdoor recreational access in North America. In addition, wetlands protected by NAWCA provide important environmental benefits such as improving both water and air quality, flood control, reducing coastal erosion, and recharging ground water.
NAWCA grants are funded through federal appropriations as well as fines, penalties and forfeitures collected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act; and from interest accrued on Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act funds. NAWCA also receives funds from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund to support projects in U.S. coastal areas.
You can learn more about the projects by visiting our project summary database.