Gov. Evers Declares September Coastal Awareness Month, $1.6M in Grants Available

MADISON, Wis. (Civic Media) — Gov. Tony Evers has declared September as Coastal Awareness Month in Wisconsin, highlighting the significance of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior to the state’s economy and quality of life.

The Wisconsin Coastal Management Program (WCMP) marked the occasion by releasing the 2024 Wisconsin Great Lakes Chronicle, an annual publication featuring articles on coastal issues and initiatives.

Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld of the Department of Administration emphasized the importance of protecting and promoting Wisconsin’s coastal resources while encouraging sustainable economic development.

The WCMP has opened its grant application period, with approximately $1.6 million in funding available for projects aimed at enhancing and protecting resources within Wisconsin’s coastal zone. Applications are due by November 1, 2024.

Several coastal events are scheduled throughout the month, including Paddle Palooza in Two Rivers, plus Valley Week, Harbor Fest and Sturgeon Fest, all in Milwaukee.

Established in 1978, the WCMP was among the first programs in the Great Lakes region created through the federal Coastal Zone Management Act. Its said to focus on balancing resource protection and sustainable development in Wisconsin’s 15 Lake Michigan and Lake Superior counties.