The Healey-Driscoll administration has awarded nearly $500,000 in grants to support aquatic habitats and endangered marine species in Massachusetts. The funds, announced by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, will be distributed through the Massachusetts Environmental Trust (MET).
The grants have been awarded to twelve organizations, supporting initiatives that include educational programs as well as direct interventions to assist entangled marine animals. An annual allocation of $200,000 is designated for the Atlantic Large Whale and Sea Turtle Disentanglement Network (ALWDN), which contributes to compliance with federal and state requirements for marine life protection. Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper stated that proceeds from environmental license plates fund projects such as opening rivers for fish migration, addressing runoff, and rescuing entangled whales and sea turtles. She also noted that these efforts align with Massachusetts’ biodiversity objectives.
The Massachusetts Environmental Trust (MET) supports conservation efforts through the sale of specialty environmental license plates, a program that has been in place for over 30 years. Revenue from the program has decreased by nearly half over the past 20 years. In response, MET has begun auctioning low-numbered plates, including designs featuring the whale and striped bass, with additional auctions planned, such as a low-number right whale plate in December.
Partnerships are a central aspect of MET’s approach, including programs such as the Brook Trout license plate initiative, which channels proceeds into the restoration and protection of habitats for trout and other cold-water species. Tom O’Shea, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Fish & Game, stated that the partnership with MET supports local efforts to protect biodiversity, sustain fisheries, and engage the public with nature through education, art, and community programs. Another program is specifically focused on striped bass conservation.
MET’s grantmaking program links grant recipients with the public, who support conservation initiatives through the purchase of MET’s four specialty environmental license plates. Additional support can be provided by buying these plates or making donations through MET’s website. The organization’s ongoing conservation efforts are documented in its anniversary report, 30 Years & Beyond.
State Representative Christine Barber highlighted that the grants support both ecological resilience and infrastructure improvements, including the replacement of outdated culverts. She stated to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, “This grant to replace outdated culverts and improve stormwater preparedness will strengthen our infrastructure, increase climate resilience, and protect our communities from flooding and costly storm damage.”
