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$10.6 Billion for Restoration, New Map on NOAA Pollution Settlements

OCT. 24, 2022 — A new map synthesizes more than 30 years of NOAA oil spill and hazardous waste pollution settlements. In total, NOAA has helped recover $10.6 billion for restoration from settlements across the United States.

A map of the U.S. with red dots indicating settlements.

NOAA formally created the Damage Assessment, Remediation, and Restoration Program in 1992 in the aftermath of the Exxon Valdez oil spill. Restoration funds have been used to restore wetlands, beaches, reefs, corals, and seagrasses and to open fish passage (e.g., dam removals) on many miles of streams. Funds have also been used to restore recreational uses like fishing, boating and swimming via boat ramps, fishing piers and improved access to outdoor recreation.

This new map synthesize decades of pollution assessment and restoration into easy to understand graphics. It can be used to share NOAA’s work across the agency, with partners, as well as with the public and can be viewed on the program website.

Last updated Tuesday, November 8, 2022 1:40pm PST