Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (Conn. -3) announced $212,000 to repair the aging sea wall of the Outer Island through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Outer Island, the farthest of the Thimble Islands in Branford, is an outdoor classroom for the Connecticut State University and is part of the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge.

“As part of a unique refuge home to hundreds of species of birds, mammals, fish, and plants, including endangered species, the Outer Island provides environmental education and scientific research opportunities. With this funding we will not only make key repairs to the sea wall and create jobs, but also ensure continued access to the island,” said DeLauro.

“This is an ideal use of these funds, as it puts people to work, protects our habitats, and helps to promote environmental education. First built seventy years ago in the aftermath of the 1938 hurricane, the seawall has protected Outer Island seventy years, allowing it to be used as a unique site for research and learning under the oversight of the USFWS,” said Anthony “Unk” DaRos, Branford First Selectman. “This funding will allow Elizabeth Hird Rauch’s legacy to continue. It was through her generosity that Outer Island was placed under the care of the USFWS to be used for educational purposes, in time becoming part of the Stewart McKinney Wildlife Association. Elizabeth would be very pleased that the island is still serving the purpose she intended.”

All the projects represent priority needs identified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through its capital planning process or existing plans. The agency worked through a merit-based process to identify and prioritize projects before finalizing the project list by ensuring the investments met the criteria put forth in the Recovery Act: namely, that a project addresses the Department’s highest priority mission needs; generates the largest number of jobs in the shortest period of time; and creates lasting value for the American public.

For a full list of the Fish and Wildlife Service Recovery Act projects and plans, go to the Fish and Wildlife Service’s Recovery web site at recovery.doi.gov/fws/. Additional information about other Department of the Interior Recovery Act issues can be found at the Department’s Recovery Web Site at recovery.doi.gov/.