Geographic Programs - Gulf of America Program

The objectives of the Gulf of America Program, housed within the Gulf of America Division (GAD), are (1) To assist States, Indian Tribes, interstate agencies, and other public or nonprofit organizations in developing and demonstrating innovative approaches relating to the causes, effects, extent, prevention, reduction, and elimination of water pollution; and (2) To expand and strengthen cooperative efforts to restore and protect the health and productivity of the Gulf of America through research, studies, experiments, and training, in ways consistent with the economic well-being of the region. In Fiscal Year 2026 priorities include projects that will: 1) deliver significant results to achieve the environmental outcomes of improved health of the Gulf of America by restoring, protecting and enhancing habitat, improving water quality, improving the region�s ability to withstand storm events, and furthering environmental awareness; and 2) assisting communities adversely affected by environmental and human health harms or risks. Through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) funding, the GAD will also prioritize projects focused on water quality, ecosystem and wetland restoration, stormwater treatment and control, nature-based infrastructure, restoration due to storm events, resilient shorelines, and environmental awareness.

Fiscal year 2025: Collaborative projects that demonstrate innovative approaches to reducing nutrient pollution including through financial and technical assistance for farmers. Coordination and support of existing water quality monitoring programs and the development of a centralized online dashboard to improve accessibility and understanding of water quality. Microbial and nutrient source tracking approaches to assess water quality and improve understanding of water quality dynamics and pollutant sources. Work with farmers to demonstrate the benefits of natural infrastructure projects that boost agronomic resilience, improve water quality, and enhance habitat while also being economically feasible. Comprehensive synoptic monitoring and modeling that improves understanding and quantification of nitrogen, phosphorus, carbon, and suspended sediment loading on water bodies.