OAK RIDGE, Tenn. — The U.S. Department of Energy signed a $42 million agreement Thursday to fund natural resources and recreation projects in Oak Ridge.
This agreement was signed as part of the Natural Resources Damage Assessment and Restoration (NRDAR), a process that works to restore and replace natural resources.
Money will be used to fund grants for local projects to enhance the area's resources or provide new nature and recreational opportunities. This includes projects like removing invasive species and septic conversions, as well as public resource improvement projects like new biking and hiking trails.
“This is one of the most notable days in our office’s history,” manager of the DOE's Oak Ridge Office of Environmental Management Jay Mullis said. “Through this agreement, DOE is accounting for past impacts and creating many new opportunities to enhance how residents can enjoy this beautiful region.”
This agreement comes following claims that contamination released from the Oak Ridge Reservation hurt natural resources in the area.
Evaluation and repair of the space will be conducted in two phases.
The first phase, conducted in 2022, focused on the impact on resources in Watts Bar Reservoir. Thursday's funding comes as part of the second phase, which focuses on balancing and restoring the Oak Ridge Reservation.
“TDEC is pleased to see this agreement finalized and we eagerly anticipate projects that will support these local communities,” TDEC Commissioner David Salyers said. “This funding will protect the natural resources in the area as well as go towards outdoor recreational opportunities for Tennesseans, creating a more balanced and healthy environment for all.”
Organizations can begin applying for these grants later in the year. Public comments can be sent starting Aug. 12, 2024.