SW Virginia News

Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) has announced that the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) has awarded a grant of $37,000 to the Nature Conservancy. The grant, provided through the Central Appalachia Habitat Stewardship Fund, aims to support the breeding of native mussels in the Clinch River.

The Nature Conservancy will utilize the grant money to breed a minimum of 40,000 mussels native to the Clinch River. This initiative aims to restore the population of these imperiled freshwater animals in the river.

In a statement, Congressman Griffith highlighted the significance of the Clinch River as a habitat for rare and imperiled freshwater species, particularly mussels. He expressed his optimism about the grant's impact on the mussel population: "I look forward to seeing how this important grant, awarded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, will improve the population of mussels in the river for years to come."

The Central Appalachia Habitat Stewardship Program, established in 2017 by NFWF, focuses on enhancing the quality and connectivity of forest and freshwater habitats. Its ultimate goal is to increase the distribution and abundance of native fish, birds, and other wildlife species in the region.

This grant from the NFWF is a significant step towards conserving the biodiversity of the Clinch River and ensuring the survival of imperiled mussels. The breeding program funded by the grant will contribute to the long-term restoration and conservation efforts in the Central Appalachia region.

With the support of the Central Appalachia Habitat Stewardship Fund, the Nature Conservancy can continue its vital work in preserving and protecting the unique freshwater ecosystems of the Clinch River. This grant will have a lasting impact on the region's biodiversity and contribute to the overall health and resilience of the ecosystem.

The collaboration between Congressman Morgan Griffith, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and the Nature Conservancy exemplifies the importance of public-private partnerships in conservation efforts. By working together, these organizations can make a significant difference in restoring and protecting critical habitats for endangered species like the freshwater mussels in the Clinch River.

The grant awarded by the NFWF is a testament to the value placed on the preservation of biodiversity and the recognition of the Clinch River as a vital ecosystem. It is through initiatives like this that we can ensure the continued existence of these imperiled species and the conservation of our natural heritage.

To learn more, click on this link: https://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402956