June 3, 2009: Congressman Wittman Announces NOAA Grant

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Rob Wittman announced the award of a $1.45 million grant from the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration to fund the Virginia Sea Grant College Program at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science for FY2009. The grant will be used to carry out an extensive portfolio of research, outreach and education on issues that affect Virginia and the Mid Atlantic.

"Both the Sea Grant College Program and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science continue to contribute immensely to the preservation of the Chesapeake Bay and the Mid Atlantic coastal region. As an environmental scientist, I understand how important this money is in allowing them to continue their excellent work," said Wittman.

The research funded by this grant will focus on coastal ecosystems, fisheries and aquaculture, and seafood safety. Outreach will include programs on fisheries, aquaculture, seafood safety and coastal communities. The grant will also fund an education program targeting K-12 audiences.

Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He was elected to his first full term in November 2008 and serves on the Natural Resources Committee and the Armed Services Committee where he is the Ranking Member of the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee.