The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Thursday two major grants designed to help Virginia protect and restore its wetlands.

During a press conference at Chesapeake Bay Hall of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, Gloucester Point, EPA Region 8 Administrator Shawn M. Garvin said that the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality will receive $750,000 in federal funds. The money is to be used for a project focusing on developing strategies and extending outreach to improve the understanding and protection of aquatic resources of high ecological value.

In addition, Garvin said VIMS will receive $356,000 that will help lessen the vulnerability of coastal wetlands to climate change in this region.

Garvin said that “wetlands play a significant role in protecting our nation’s water supply.” When interviewed following the press conference, Garvin called wetlands “nature’s kidneys” as they filter water and aid habitat.

“By takin...