COLUMBUS, OH – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has approved more than $437,000 in funding through the Coastal Management Assistance Grant (CMAG) program for five projects in Toledo, Eastlake, Ashtabula County, Lorain, and Bay Village that will improve coastal planning, public access, and water quality.

“For more than 20 years, this grant program has provided a helping hand to Ohio’s communities for protecting and developing valuable resources near Lake Erie,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “These projects upgrade infrastructure, provide better access to natural areas for residents, and reduce erosion while improving water quality.”

ODNR implements the CMAG program through its Office of Coastal Management for eligible entities including local governments, county and regional planning agencies, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and park and conservancy districts for completion of projects that will protect Lake Erie’s coastal resources and support sustainable use.

This year’s projects include installing ADA-accessible parking spaces and walkways, implementing green stormwater infrastructure, enhancing stream and wetland habitats which will help filter and improve water quality, and developing plans and engineering designs needed to improve public access and restore coastal habitat.

CMAG is a competitive reimbursement grant program that provides matching funds up to 50 percent of project costs, with a minimum of 50 percent from the applicant. Funding for the program is provided by a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Ohio Coastal Management Program. The CMAG program has provided more than $5.62 million for 141 projects in Ohio since the program began in 1998.

For more information about projects and funding for each grantee, please visit coastal.ohiodnr.gov/cmagrants.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.

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For more information, contact:
Sarah Wickham, ODNR Office of Communications
614-265-6860