CWPPRA stands for the Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection, and Restoration Act. It is a legislative initiative initiated in 1990 by the U.S. Congress that aims to address the challenges and preserve the coastal wetlands along the Gulf Coast in the southern United States.
The CWPPRA program focuses on planning, protecting, and restoring the significant areas of coastal wetlands in Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida. The coastal wetlands refer to the unique and vital ecosystems located on the interface between land and water, including marshes, swamps, bogs, and estuaries. These wetlands are known for their rich biodiversity, acting as habitats for various plant and animal species, and providing many essential ecosystem services.
CWPPRA works through a cooperative partnership between several federal and state agencies, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It provides funding for research, planning, engineering, and implementation of restoration projects aimed at reducing coastal land loss, protecting vulnerable shorelines from erosion, and enhancing the overall health and productivity of coastal wetlands.
The primary goals of the CWPPRA program are to restore and maintain the natural functions and values of coastal Louisiana wetlands, such as storm surge reduction, water quality improvement, and wildlife habitat preservation. Through a comprehensive and strategic approach, CWPPRA plays a crucial role in preserving these critical ecosystems, sustaining the unique coastal culture and economy, and mitigating the risks associated with hurricanes and other coastal hazards.
