The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources announced it is accepting project proposals for funding through the State of Alabama’s GOMESA Grant Program, which supports coastal protection, environmental restoration, and related infrastructure efforts.
The program is funded through the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA), a federal law enacted in 2006 that provides Gulf Coast states with a share of offshore oil and gas revenues. Alabama uses those funds to support projects that address coastal and environmental needs tied to Gulf activity.
According to the announcement, eligible projects must align with one or more authorized uses of GOMESA funding. Those include coastal protection efforts such as conservation, restoration, hurricane protection, and infrastructure impacted by coastal wetland loss.
Funding may also support mitigation of damage to fish, wildlife, or natural resources, implementation of federally approved conservation management plans, and onshore infrastructure projects that offset impacts from offshore energy development. Planning and administrative costs associated with GOMESA compliance are also eligible.
The State Lands Division within ADCNR is requesting detailed project proposals from interested parties. Submissions must include a project name, contact information, location, and description, along with a justification explaining how the project meets GOMESA eligibility requirements.
Applicants must also provide an estimated cost and detailed budget, project goals and objectives, a schedule with key milestones, and any cost-sharing or leveraged resources.
Proposals should additionally outline how the project relates to other existing programs or efforts. State officials noted that GOMESA funding cannot be used as a non-federal match for federal funding.
Project suggestions must be submitted by May 29, 2026, at 5 p.m. to ensure full consideration. Electronic submissions are preferred and must be sent in PDF format to [email protected] with the subject line “GOMESA Project Suggestion.”
Hardcopy submissions may also be delivered by mail or courier to:
State Lands Division
c/o Jeremiah Kolb
31115 Five Rivers Blvd
Spanish Fort, AL 36527
Officials cautioned that it is the responsibility of the submitting party to ensure proposals are received prior to the deadline. Late submissions will be reviewed only as time permits, and submission of a proposal does not guarantee funding.
More information and any program updates will be posted at outdooralabama.com.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
