The state of North Carolina has been awarded a grant of $10 million from the federal government to help preserve and protect the state's natural resources. The grant, which was announced on February 14, 2026, will be used to fund various conservation projects across the state.Governor Sarah Davis expressed her gratitude for the grant, stating that it will be instrumental in ensuring that North Carolina's natural resources are protected for future generations. "Our state is home to a diverse array of ecosystems, wildlife, and natural landscapes that are essential to our economy and our way of life," Governor Davis said. "This grant will allow us to invest in important conservation efforts that will help safeguard our environment for years to come."The funds from the grant will be used to support a number of initiatives aimed at conserving North Carolina's natural resources. This includes funding for habitat restoration projects, wildlife conservation efforts, and land preservation programs. Additionally, the grant will support research and education programs designed to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the state's natural resources.One of the key projects that will benefit from the grant is the restoration of the state's coastal wetlands. These wetlands provide vital habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species, as well as important ecosystem services such as flood protection and water filtration. The funds will be used to restore degraded wetlands, improve water quality, and protect existing wetland areas from further degradation.In addition to the coastal wetlands project, the grant will also support efforts to protect North Carolina's forests, rivers, and other natural areas. The state Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation will oversee the distribution of the grant funds and work with local organizations and stakeholders to implement the various conservation projects.Overall, the grant is seen as a critical step in ensuring that North Carolina's natural resources are conserved and protected for future generations. With increasing pressures from development and climate change, it is more important than ever to invest in conservation efforts that will help preserve the state's environment for years to come.