Any NERRS lead state agencies or universities designated to receive NERRS operations funding through a Memorandum of Understanding with NOAA in coastal states and territories are eligible for funds under this competition. For elected projects, NOAA may make financial assistance awards to the Reserve lead state agency or university, which will be responsible for ensuring that allocated funds are used for the purposes of and in a manner consistent with this program. NOAA may also, with concurrence from the Reserve...