SUSSEX COUNTY, Del. - The Delaware Center for Inland Bays faces an uncertain future as federal funding cuts loom, threatening its crucial role in preserving the region's coastal ecosystems.
Director Christophe Tulou expressed concern, emphasizing that without government support, efforts to protect and restore the Bays could be severely limited.
"If we weren't here, somebody would want to create us," Tulou told CoastTV. "So why let us go?" He highlighted that the center’s unique expertise and passion are irreplaceable, bringing light to the vital work they do to maintain the environmental health of Delaware's coastal waters.
Supporters, like Bethany Beach local Marilyn Miskowich, stress the importance of preserving the Bays, noting that the center's work is critical for recreation and the well-being of the local community. "Anything that protects the environment and our beaches is critically important," Miskowich said.
However, Mike Snyder lives in Ocean City and visits the Delaware waters each week. He believes the funding cuts are inevitable due to broader budgetary issues. "Something's got to be done about the spending...and unfortunately, they’ve taken it out on things like the Bays and National Parks," Tulou said.
Tulou spoke at the Sussex Preservation Coalition meeting Tuesday to inform people on the struggles the center may face due to these cuts. "Our whole watershed needs care. And so the opportunity here is to let people know how it needs care, why it is that we do the things that we do, and how it is that they can pitch in and help," Tulou said.
With these cuts on the horizon, the center’s future remains uncertain.