[SEMCO] December 2010 CZ-Mail

[Cz-Mail, (ENV)]

CZ-MAIL

December 2010



Welcome to CZ-Mail, the monthly electronic newsletter from the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM). Each issue provides information on major CZM initiatives, available tools and publications, upcoming workshops and events, grants, contracting opportunities, job openings, coastal legislation, and other news of interest to people working on coastal issues. Additional information about CZM's programs, publications, and other coastal topics can be found on the CZM website<http://www.mass.gov/czm/>. To subscribe to CZ-Mail, send a blank email to join-env-cz-mail at listserv.state.ma.us<mailto:join-env-cz-mail at listserv.state.ma.us>. Also, please feel free to share CZ-Mail with colleagues and friends-and if you have any suggestions for future editions, or would like make a change to your CZ-Mail subscription, please email your request to CZ-Mail at state.ma.us<mailto:CZ-Mail at state.ma.us?subject=December%202010%20CZ-Mail>.



Deerin Babb-Brott Leaves CZM

In November, Deerin Babb-Brott, EEA's Assistant Secretary for Oceans and Coastal Zone Management and CZM Director, announced he is leaving state service to join Epsilon Associates, Inc. as Director of Regulatory Affairs. As CZM Director, Deerin led the team that developed the Massachusetts Ocean Management Plan<http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeaterminal&L=3&L0=Home&L1=Ocean+%26+Coastal+Management&L2=Massachusetts+Ocean+Plan&sid=Eoeea&b=terminalcontent&f=eea_oceans_mop&csid=Eoeea>, the first-in-the-nation blueprint for comprehensive marine planning as the basis for environmental protection and renewable energy development. In 2010, Deerin was awarded the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Susan Snow-Cotter Award for Excellence in Ocean and Coastal Resource Management for this effort. As Director of the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) unit, Deerin helped develop and implement the nation's first greenhouse gas environmental review policy and crafted certificates for major energy projects, including Cape Wind, Weavers Cove Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) facility, and Neptune and Northeast Gateway offshore LNG terminals. Prior to joining MEPA, Deerin served as CZM Assistant Director for Planning and Coastal Development, where he managed planning, coastal geology, project review, and federal consistency review programs. He began his career at CZM more than 18 years ago as Dredging Coordinator. Deerin's significant achievements, experience, willingness to tackle challenging issues, problem-solving ability, and sense of humor will be missed. We thank him for his work at CZM and his service to the Commonwealth, and we wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors!



Bruce Carlisle to Serve as CZM Acting Director

With the departure of Deerin Babb-Brott, CZM's Assistant Director Bruce Carlisle will assume Acting Director responsibilities. Bruce has served as Assistant Director for CZM since 2005 and directs policy development, planning efforts, and technical approaches for the agency. Previously, Bruce served as the manager for the state's Wetlands Restoration Program from 2003-2005, where he coordinated efforts to restore former and degraded wetlands. At CZM, Bruce has had previous experience and responsibilities in wetland and water resource policy, regulation, monitoring, and assessment. Bruce also served as CZM Acting Director in 2006 and holds a Masters in Environmental Policy from Tufts University.



COASTSWEEP 2010

2010 marked the 23rd anniversary of COASTSWEEP. Part of an international effort organized by the Ocean Conservancy, COASTSWEEP is the statewide annual beach cleanup sponsored by CZM and the Urban Harbors Institute (UHI) of UMass Boston. Although final results from the 2010 cleanups are still pending, preliminary reports show that approximately 2,300 COASTSWEEP volunteers cleaned more than 100 miles of coastline, river bank, marsh, seafloor, and lakeshore in Massachusetts-collecting 21,037 pounds of debris from 100 locations. To kick off the cleanup efforts, CZM Director Deerin Babb-Brott and COASTSWEEP Coordinator Robin Lacey welcomed 100 dedicated volunteers at Lynn Shores and Nahant Beach Reservation in Nahant on September 25. From a distance, the beach looked pristine, but together these volunteers collected more than 3,500 cigarette butts, 800 food wrappers and containers, and 400 plastic bags-a total of approximately 250 pounds of marine debris. CZM and UHI would like to thank all of the hard working volunteers that participated in COASTSWEEP 2010. Special thanks go out to the Friends of Lynn and Nahant Beach, Salem Sound Coastwatch, Nahant SWIM, and Virgin Atlantic for recruiting volunteers and supporting the kickoff. Thank you also to Dunkin Donuts for donating breakfast and to the Ocean Conservancy for providing each of our volunteers with a reusable shopping bag. And of course thanks go out to the generous 2010 COASTSWEEP sponsors-Massachusetts Environmental Trust, Ocean Conservancy, Massachusetts Marine Trades Association, Weston Solutions, and Cape Cod Potato Chips. For more information about this year's efforts or to get involved in future COASTSWEEP cleanups, see the COASTSWEEP website<http://www.coastsweep.umb.edu/>. Also, check out COASTSWEEP photos on Facebook<http://www.facebook.com/pages/Coastsweep-2010/128441707185891> and Flickr<http://www.flickr.com/photos/masseea/sets/72157625054169176/>, or see a video of kickoff highlights<http://environment.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2010/10/annual-beach-cleanup.html> from the Commonwealth's Great Outdoors Blog<http://environment.blog.state.ma.us/blog/>.



Wetlands Monitoring and Assessment Program Wraps up Second Season

This fall, CZM completed the second year of assessing the biological conditions of salt marshes in Massachusetts working hand-in-hand with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) to continue the development of a robust Wetlands Monitoring and Assessment Program for the Commonwealth. During the 2010 monitoring season, CZM staff led two teams of researchers from CZM, MassDEP, and Salem Sound Coastwatch to collect data on vascular plants, macroinvertebrates, and habitat complexity at 70 sites across coastal Massachusetts. In 2009, 45 sites were sampled using the same protocols. All sampling data will be analyzed to evaluate a landscape-level GIS model developed by UMass Amherst researchers. The innovative computer model and program-Conservation Assessment and Prioritization System (CAPS)-predicts ecological integrity for any given point on the landscape using more than 25 specialized metrics. UMass, CZM, and MassDEP have recently enhanced the model by adding metrics specific to salt marshes (e.g., tidal restriction, ditching, etc.). The computer program lends itself to many applications and is capable of running scenario analyses for evaluating alternatives to proposed projects. An additional 50 sites were sampled for vegetation to assess the model's ability to predict land use impacts on salt marsh border communities. Data from 185 sites, including 20 sites to be sampled in 2011, will be used to verify and calibrate the CAPS computer model. The protocols used in this study build upon tools developed through more than 15 years of salt marsh assessment at CZM. Funding support is provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 1 and MassDEP. Additional information will be available on the CZM website in the coming months. For more information on this project please contact Coastal GIS and Habitat Analyst, Marc Carullo at marc.carullo at state.ma.us<mailto:Marc.Carullo at state.ma.us>, or Water Quality and Habitat Manager, Jan Smith at jan.smith at state.ma.us<mailto:Jan.Smith at state.ma.us>.



State Hazard Mitigation Plan Approved

In October, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), in conjunction with the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), received approval of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts State Hazard Mitigation Plan<http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eopsterminal&L=4&L0=Home&L1=Homeland+Security+%26+Emergency+Response&L2=Hazard+Mitigation&L3=Planning&sid=Eeops&b=terminalcontent&f=mema_disaster_recovery_planning_and_the_state_hazard_mitigation_plan&csid=Eeops> from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The new plan provides both short-term and long-term strategies for implementing hazard mitigation measures by state agencies as well as local municipalities throughout the state by identifying actions that will lower both the risks and costs of natural hazards. This approval places the plan in full compliance with federal requirements, which keeps the Commonwealth qualified to receive federal funding under all FEMA hazard mitigation grant programs, including the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Program (PDM) and Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), and permanent projects under FEMA's Public Assistance Program. To maintain eligibility for these grant programs, the State Interagency Hazard Mitigation Team is required to revise the plan every three years. The state team includes CZM's Joe Pelczarski and Rebecca Haney, who provided information through several subgroups of the state team to inform updates of the coastal hazards, flooding, and strategy sections of the plan.



CZ-Tip: Stop the Alien Invasion

Invasive species (also called alien, exotic, nonindigenous, and biological invaders) can cause big problems in coastal, marine, and freshwater environments. The European green crab and the common periwinkle snail are two examples of well established invasive species that are living and reproducing in Massachusetts. From carefully cleaning your felt-soled fishing waders to throwing the clam shells from your take out in the trash to joining the Marine Invader and Monitoring Collaborative-there are many ways to help stop the alien invasion. For details on how to keep invasive species at bay in the Bay State, see the CZ-Tip: Learn to Spot, and Deal with, the Aliens in Our Midst<http://www.mass.gov/czm/tips/aliens.htm>.



Grants/Funding/Proposal Opportunities

Coastal Pollutant Remediation Grant Program - CZM is seeking proposals for the Coastal Pollutant Remediation (CPR) grant program<http://www.mass.gov/czm/cprgp.htm>. For Fiscal Year 2011, the CPR program will provide up to $375,500 to municipalities located in the Massachusetts Coastal Watershed<http://www.mass.gov/czm/twnscws.htm> to assess and remediate stormwater pollution from paved and unpaved surfaces and to design, install, or upgrade boat pumpout facilities. As much as $125,000 may be requested, and a 25% match of the total project cost is required. To view the Request for Responses (RFR), visit the Comm-PASS website<https://www.ebidsourcing.com/displayPublicSearchAdvancedSolCriteriaEdit.do?doValidateToken=false&menu_id=2.3.3&org.apache.struts.taglib.html.TOKEN=8613bb8397736fa637836927ad13dd59> and search for solicitation number "ENV 11 CZM 03." Proposals are due by January 7, 2011.



Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Funding - CZM anticipates the release of an RFR in January 2011 seeking applications for funding under the Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program<http://www.mass.gov/czm/celcp/index.htm> (CELCP). CELCP provides state and local governments with matching funds to purchase significant coastal and estuarine lands (or conservation easements on such lands) that are considered important for their ecological, conservation, recreational, historical, or aesthetic values. Applications will be reviewed and ranked for nomination to NOAA for evaluation and potential Federal Fiscal Year 2012 CELCP funding. The RFR will be very similar to this 2010 RFR<http://www.mass.gov/czm/celcp/celcp_10_rfr.pdf> (PDF, 426 KB). CZM encourages municipalities and other prospective applicants to begin planning and developing potential land conservation projects. CZM staff is available to provide guidance prior to the RFR release. Stay tuned to the CZM Jobs and Grants page<http://www.mass.gov/czm/jobsandgrants.htm> for updates. For more information, contact David Janik at david.janik at state.ma.us<mailto:david.janik at state.ma.us>.



FEMA Disaster Preparedness Challenge - As part an effort to engage citizens in better preparing their communities before a disaster strikes, FEMA is soliciting ideas on how the government can support community-based activities to help communities be as prepared as possible. FEMA is seeking ideas from across the spectrum-from new ways to engage the public to new device or technology that can mitigate the effects of disaster to informative public service announcements. Submissions will be judged based on originality, level of community engagement, and ease of implementation. For details, see the challenge web page<http://challenge.gov/FEMA/87-preparing-our-communities-before-a-disaster-strikes>. Submissions are due by January 2, 2011.



Reminders - These opportunities listed in the last CZ-Mail are still available:

·         Mass Bays Research and Planning Grants - MBP is seeking proposals for the 2011 Research and Planning Grant Program. Up to $200,000 is available for estuarine protection and restoration initiatives located within the 50 coastal communities in the MBP planning area<http://www.mass.gov/envir/massbays/map.htm>. Eligible projects include applied research, planning, or capacity building initiatives that assist MBP in implementing priority action items identified in its 2009-2012 Strategic Plan. To view the Request for Responses, see the Comm-PASS website<https://www.ebidsourcing.com/displayPublicSearchAdvancedSolCriteriaEdit.do?doValidateToken=false&menu_id=2.3.3&org.apache.struts.taglib.html.TOKEN=8613bb8397736fa637836927ad13dd59> and search for document number "ENV 11 CZM 02." Applications are due by December 3 and all projects must be completed by June 30, 2011. However, with approval of MBP and CZM, contracts may be written or extended to December 31, 2011, pending funding availability.

·         Gulf of Maine Habitat Restoration Grants - The Gulf of Maine Council is seeking proposals for coastal habitat restoration projects within the Gulf of Maine watershed. In partnership with the NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service Community-Based Restoration Program, the Gulf of Maine Council provides grants to further the goal of habitat restoration and to support a strategic approach to marine, coastal, and riverine habitat restoration. For details, see the Gulf of Maine Habitat Restoration web portal<http://restoration.gulfofmaine.org#2010RFP>. Full applications must be submitted online<http://www.gulfofmaine.org/grantapp/> from February 2 to March 16, 2011.

·         Regional Ocean Partnership Funding - NOAA is soliciting proposals to advance effective coastal and ocean management through regional ocean governance that includes the national ocean policy goals set out in the July 2010 Final Recommendations<http://www.whitehouse.gov/files/documents/OPTF_FinalRecs.pdf> (PDF, 3.6 MB) of the Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force. See the Federal Register Notice<http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/2010-22645.htm> for details on funding priorities, eligibility, deadlines, and review process, along with information on how to apply. Proposals are due by December 10.



Products/Publications

Interagency Climate Change Adaptation Task Force Report - In October, the Interagency Climate Change Adaptation Task Force<http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/ceq/initiatives/adaptation>, co-chaired by the White House Council on Environmental Quality, the Office of Science and Technology Policy, and NOAA, released a report detailing how federal agency's policies and programs can better prepare the United States to respond to the impacts of climate change through a variety of measures, including making scientific information on the topic easily accessible, and by building strong partnerships between local, state, and tribal decision makers, especially in regions where the infrastructure is most likely to be affected. For details, see the Progress Report of the Interagency Climate Change Adaptation Task Force: Recommended Actions in Support of a National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy<http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/microsites/ceq/Interagency-Climate-Change-Adaptation-Progress-Report.pdf> (PDF, 1 MB).



Strategies for Smart Growth in Rural Communities - The International City/County Management Association has released the report Putting Smart Growth to Work in Rural Communities<http://icma.org/en/icma/knowledge_network/documents/kn/Document/301483/Putting_Smart_Growth_to_Work_in_Rural_Communities>, which focuses on how to adapt smart growth strategies to rural communities. Funded by EPA's Office of Sustainable Communities, the report focuses strategies that can help guide growth in these areas while protecting natural and working lands and preserving the communities' existing character.



StormSmart Coasts National Newsletter - The November issue<http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=ebce3c107c4ea6723808033a3&id=2eb10283e7&e=6db4561250> of the national StormSmart Coasts Network's monthly newsletter provides a discussion of updates to the StormSmart websites and includes other StormSmart Coasts news. Each month the newsletter features new resources for coastal decision makers looking for information on how to protect communities from weather and climate hazards.



CICEET Progress Reports - NOAA's Cooperative Institute for Coastal and Estuarine Environmental Technology (CICEET) has released the Fall 2010 Progress Reports<http://ciceet.unh.edu/news/releases/fall10_reports/index.html> for its environmental technology development projects. These projects are dedicated to developing tools that help coastal communities become more resilient in the face of increasing development and climate change. The focus areas include improved tools for land use planning, habitat restoration and protection, and water quality monitoring. These reports detail progress in gathering data, meeting research objectives, reaching out to coastal managers, and soliciting feedback from potential end users.



Green Buildings and Natural Hazards Resistance - FEMA has released a report entitled Natural Hazards and Sustainability for Residential Buildings<http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4347>, which examines how to improve natural hazard resistance while incorporating green building practices.



Gulf of Maine Times - The Fall 2010 edition of the Gulf of Maine Times<http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=f9uznsbab&v=001gjTeQvTgjpo130Jj26SRKONmWxpOjZnSWFeqqsAPauL-mMc7BApm7uuNNH9WqIHgYvBD5TgpjFQRxP0guQR3S3mTcfWR7I0O1TefglZRaORoGV-5XpnZRVLdNfuYd86Le82fZcOT_wA%3D> features articles on the decline of top predators in Stellwagen Bank, National Ocean Policy and its impact on the Gulf of Maine, National Park Service efforts to combat climate change, and other Gulf of Maine news.



The Sandbar - The October 2010 issue of The Sandbar<http://nsglc.olemiss.edu/reporter.html>, a quarterly publication reporting on legal issues affecting the U.S. oceans and coasts by the National Sea Grant College Program, features articles on Cape Wind, piracy, water intake structures, and other ocean and coastal related legal issues.



National Climate Adaptation Summit Report - The University Corporation for Atmospheric Research has released a report from the National Climate Adaptation Summit, which was held last May in Washington D.C. to examine the needs, knowledge, and roles required for effective adaptation to climate change. The summit report<http://www.joss.ucar.edu/events/2010/ncas/summit_report.html> includes seven high priority near-term actions that will help better prepare the United States for a changing climate.



Natural Hazards Observer - The November 2010 issue of the Natural Hazards Observer<http://www.colorado.edu/hazards/o/>, the bimonthly periodical of the Natural Hazards Center in Boulder, Colorado, covers disaster issues, disaster management and education programs, hazards research, and political and policy developments as they relate to natural hazards. The periodical also contains resources, websites, upcoming conferences, and recent publications dealing with hazards and disasters.



Marine Protected Area Newsletter - The November-December 2010 issue of MPA News<http://depts.washington.edu/mpanews/MPA117.htm> features articles on marine protected areas (MPAs) and the 10 percent target for each coastal and marine ecoregion, new MPA designations, a study on the effects of MPAs, and other MPA news and notes.



Atlantic CoastWatch Newsletter - The September/October 2010 issue of Atlantic CoastWatch<http://www.atlanticcoastwatch.org/Newsletter.htm>, the bimonthly newsletter from the Sustainable Development Institute that provides news and information about the Atlantic coasts of Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean, includes articles on windpower in the Atlantic, turtle rescues in the Gulf of Mexico, and other Atlantic coast news.



Sound Waves - The October/November 2010 issue of Sound Waves<http://soundwaves.usgs.gov/>, the monthly newsletter from U.S. Geological Survey, features articles on permafrost in Alaska, coral calcification in south Florida, nutrient trends in Chesapeake Bay, and other coastal and marine research news.



Websites

Hurricanes: Science and Society - The University of Rhode Island's Graduate School of Oceanography has launched Hurricanes: Science and Society<http://colorado.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b72140489b80a4574373938a1&id=d25a625c2a&e=4051a4f944>, a website which provides information on hurricanes, including the science, methods of observation, modeling and forecasting, societal impacts, and how people and communities can prepare for and mitigate the impacts of hurricanes.



Storm Surge Website Updated with Interactive Risk Maps - NOAA's National Hurricane Center's Storm Surge website<http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ssurge/ssurge.shtml> has been updated to include educational storm surge risk maps<http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ssurge/risk/index.shtml?gm> that provide a national snapshot of maximum potential storm surge from hurricanes of varying strengths. The maps are based on model simulations that take into account hypothetical storms with different combinations of storm forward speeds, landfall locations, storm tracks, storm sizes, storm intensities, and astronomical tides. Designed to be used for outreach, education, and awareness, these maps are not appropriate for planning, mitigation, or real-time applications.



Public Comment

Proposed Routine Program Change to the CZM Program - CZM invites comment on a proposed routine change to the Massachusetts Coastal Management Program, as approved by NOAA's Office of Coastal and Ocean Management (OCRM) pursuant to the Coastal Zone Management Act (16 U.S.C. § 1451 et seq.), in accordance with regulations at 15 C.F.R. § 923.84. The routine program change consists of formal adoption of the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management Policy Guide, which replaces the 2002 Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management Plan as the official statement of the Massachusetts coastal program policies and legal authorities, especially as they relate to the process of federal consistency review. To receive paper copies of the text and material comprising this proposed program change, contact CZM's Project Review Coordinator by email at Robert.Boeri at state.ma.us<mailto:Robert.Boeri at state.ma.us>, or by phone at (617) 626-1050. Comments are due by December 17.



Draft NPDES General Permit for POTWs - EPA is seeking comments on the draft National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) general permits for certain publicly owned treatment works (POTW) and other treatment works that treat domestic sewage in Massachusetts. For details, see the EPA website<http://www.epa.gov/region1/npdes/potw-gp.html>. Comments are due by December 6.



Recreational Saltwater Fishing Permit Public Hearings - On December 8 and 15, the Division of Marine Fisheries will hold two public hearings on the new Recreational Saltwater Fishing Permit. For hearing locations and more details, see the hearing announcement<http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dmf/marinefisheriesnotices/2010/rec_license_advisory_110510.html>.



Draft MS4 General Permit for Massachusetts - EPA is seeking comments on three Draft NPDES general permits for discharges from small municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s) to certain waters of Massachusetts. Stormwater pollution is a leading cause of surface water quality impairments in Massachusetts, due to elevated levels of nutrients, disease-causing bacteria, and other pollutants. These draft NPDES general permits establish Notice of Intent requirements, prohibitions, and management practices for stormwater discharges from small MS4s. On January 12, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. in the Leominster Public Library, EPA will hold a public meeting to provide information about the draft general permit and its requirements. For details, see the EPA website<http://www.epa.gov/ne/npdes/stormwater/mimsc_sms4.html> or contact Kate Renahan at Renahan.Kate at epa.gov<mailto:Renahan.Kate at epa.gov>. Comments are due by January 21, 2011.



NPDES Vessel Permit - EPA is seeking comments the next NPDES General Permit for Discharges Incidental to the Normal Operation of Vessels or Vessel General Permit<http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/home.cfm?program_id=350> (VGP). The VGP is a permit that authorizes discharges incidental to the normal operation of vessels. EPA seeks comments on the current requirements of the 2008 VGP, and any changes or additions recommended for the next VGP. The 2008 VGP expires on December 19, 2013. Submit comments identified by Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OW-2010-0828 by December 31 to ow-docket at epa.gov<mailto:ow-docket at epa.gov>.



Estuary Habitat Restoration Strategy - The interagency Estuary Habitat Restoration Council is soliciting comments on the draft revision of the Estuary Habitat Restoration Strategy<http://www.era.noaa.gov/information/strategy.html>. This revision will replace the 2002 Final Estuary Habitat Restoration Strategy<http://www.era.noaa.gov/pdfs/120302_finalstrat.pdf> (PDF, 72 KB) that was required by the Estuary Restoration Act of 2000. The Council plans to publish the revised version in early 2011. Submit comments by January 14, 2011 to estuaryrestorationact at noaa.gov<mailto:estuaryrestorationact at noaa.gov>.



Reminder - The following comment opportunity posted in the last CZ-Mail is still open:

·         Coastal and Marine Ecological Classification Standard - The Federal Geographic Data Committee is seeking a public comment on the draft Coastal and Marine Ecological Classification Standard<http://www.csc.noaa.gov/benthic/cmecs/>, which provides a means of classifying ecological and habitat units using a common terminology. It provides a uniform protocol for identifying, characterizing, and naming ecological units in support of monitoring, protection, and restoration of unique biotic assemblages, protected species, critical habitat, and important ecosystem components. Submit comments online<http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/22G2S67> by December 31.



Calendar

BUAR Public Meetings - On December 2 and January 27, 2011, CZM's Board of Underwater Archaeological Resources<http://www.mass.gov/czm/buar/> (BUAR) will hold public board meetings at CZM's Boston office<http://www.mass.gov/czm/contactus.htm#directions>. The agenda for December<http://www.mass.gov/czm/buar/meetings/uab_dec10_agenda.pdf> (PDF, 98 KB) includes discussion/approval of minutes from the September 30 meeting, renewal of two reconnaissance and three excavation permits, extension of one reconnaissance and one special use permit, discussion/approval on one special use permit , and discussion of permittee, outreach and research activities. The preliminary agenda for January includes discussion/approval of minutes from the December 2 meeting, renewal of two reconnaissance, one excavation, and one special use permit, and discussion of permittee, outreach, and research activities. Meetings are held at 1:30 p.m. in the CZM Large Conference Room. For more information, contact BUAR Director, Victor Mastone, at victor.mastone at state.ma.us<mailto:victor.mastone at state.ma.us>.



Wednesday Walks - On Wednesdays in December, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History (CCMNH) will hold a series of walks with naturalist Connie Boyce. For details about each walk, see the museum calendar<http://www.ccmnh.org/index.php?module=PostCalendar&func=view&tplview=default&viewtype=month&Date=20101201&pc_username=&pc_category=&pc_topic=>.



Winter Talks in Harwich - This winter, the Harwich Conservation Trust will host a series of free winter talks-all open to the public. For details, see the Trust's website<http://www.harwichconservationtrust.org/winter_talks_2011.htm>.



Climate Change Adaptation Tools for Water Issues Webcast - On December 2, EPA will hold a webcast to highlight several programs to help communities adapt to climate change including EPA's Climate Ready Water Utilities and Climate Ready Estuaries programs. For details and to register, see the EPA website<http://water.epa.gov/learn/training/wacademy/webcasts_index.cfm>.



Reducing Your Nitrogen Footprint - On the first Tuesday of each month through May 2011, the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve will host Reduce Your Nitrogen Footprint talks at the reserve visitor center in Falmouth. The first session, Cape Friendly Holidays! Make Your Presence Count, is on December 7. For more information, see the WBNERR website<http://www.waquoitbayreserve.org/eventshow.aspx?eventid=265>.



Town Hall Forum on National Ocean Policy - On December 9, NOAA and the Departments of Defense, Interior, and Homeland Security will hold a town hall forum from 10:00 a.m. to noon at Faneuil Hall in Boston. The forum will provide an overview from key federal agencies of the new National Ocean Policy<http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/oceans/policy>, to be followed by a question-and-answer session. For additional information, contact Nicole Bartlett at Nicole.Bartlett at noaa.gov<mailto:Nicole.Bartlett at noaa.gov>.



LID Design Webcast - On December 9, EPA's Watershed Academy will hold the Designing LID to Work: Lessons Learned from North Carolina webcast<http://water.epa.gov/learn/training/wacademy/webcasts_index.cfm>. North Carolina is a geographically diverse state spanning mountain, piedmont and coastal regions, making its low impact development (LID) implementation progress a model for many states across the country. This webcast will feature a discussion of barriers to LID implementation and the progress made to address them.



Cape Cod National Seashore Lecture - On December 11 at 2:00 p.m., the CCMNH will host a lecture by Daniel Lombardo<http://www.ccmnh.org/index.php?module=PostCalendar&func=view&Date=20101211&tplview=default&viewtype=details&eid=937&print=> on his new book Cape Cod National Seashore: The First 50 Years. Mr. Lombardo will speak about the political drama of the designation, the history of early Native American settlements, whaling, shipwrecks, lighthouses, windmills, and dune shacks that populate the seashore.



StormCon 2011-Call for Papers - StormCon, the world's largest conference on stormwater pollution prevention, is seeking abstracts for its 10th annual conference to be held on August 21 - 25, 2011 in Anaheim, California. For details, see the StormCon website<http://stormcon.com/conference_call_for_papers.shtm>. Abstracts are due by December 14.



Climate and Energy Webcasts - In December and January, EPA's State and Local Climate and Energy Program will hold the final sessions of a three-part webcast series on climate change adaptation for state and local governments. The December 15 webcast will be on adaptation planning and implementation and the January 13, 2011 session will discuss federal resources and support for climate change adaptation. For more information about this programs, see the EPA website<http://www.epa.gov/statelocalclimate/web-podcasts/local-webcasts-by-date.html>. To sign up for the December webcast, go to the registration web page<https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/114040154>.



Watershed and Stormwater Management Webcasts - On December 15, the Center for Watershed Protection (CWP) will hold the Better Site Design Gets Better webcast<http://www.cwp.org/our-work/training/webcasts.html#Next%20Webcast>. The Center for Watershed Protection first introduced the concept of Better Site Design (BSD) in 1998 and has used BSD in its work with many communities. Since inception of the project, their objective has been to improve local development codes so that development and redevelopment projects can reduce impervious cover and runoff.



Science, Policy, and the Environment Conference - On January 19-21, 2011, the 11th National Conference on Science, Policy, and the Environment<http://communities.earthportal.org/ncseoceans2011/>, Our Changing Ocean, will be held in Washington, DC. Organized by the National Council for Science and the Environment, this conference will address the problems facing the oceans, new knowledge and innovative tools to address these challenges, and the policy and governance needed to restore and protect oceans.



Wastewater Conference - On January 23-26, 2011, the New England Water Environment Association (NEWEA) will host the 2011 Annual Conference & Exhibition<http://www.newea.org/Events/AnnualConference/tabid/178/Default.aspx> in Boston. The NEWEA conference is the largest water quality conference held in New England and features a large exhibit area with more than 180 vendors. Technical sessions will focus on industrial waste, collections systems, plant operations, wetlands, government affairs, hazardous waste, and watershed management.



International Marina & Boatyard Conference - On January 26-28, 2011, the International Marina & Boatyard Conference<https://www.marinaassociation.org/imbc/> will be held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This three-day conference will feature educational seminars, products demonstrations, and more than 125 exhibitors.



Smart Growth Conferences - On February 3-5, 2011, the 10th annual New Partners for Smart Growth Conference<http://www.newpartners.org/index.html> will be held in Charlotte, North Carolina. The three-day conference program includes more than 100 sessions and nearly 400 speakers.



International LIDAR Mapping Forum - On February 7-9, 2011, the 2011 International LIDAR Mapping Forum<http://www.lidarmap.org/conference> will be held in New Orleans, Louisiana. This three day technical conference will report on the latest technology advances and recent projects, and will highlight actual experiences and lessons learned. Topic include airborne use of LIDAR for urban and rural mapping, transport and rail asset management, bathymetric mapping along the coastal zone, and a whole track devoted to technologies and operations for mobile mapping.



Remediation of Contaminated Sediments Conference - On February 7-10, 2011, the 6th International Conference on Remediation of Contaminated Sediments<http://www.battelle.org/conferences/sediments/> will be held in New Orleans, Louisiana. The conference will address the challenges of combining basic research, new characterization and assessment methodologies, innovative engineering, and good management practices to address the concerns surrounding contaminated sediments.



National Conference on Beach Preservation - On February 9-11, 2011, the 24th annual National Conference on Beach Preservation Technology<http://www.fsbpa.com/techconference.htm> will be held in Jacksonville, Florida. The conference will present the latest beach preservation technology with a goal to provide a technological transfer to coastal decision makers.



Erosion Control Conference - On February 20-23, 2011, the International Erosion Control Association's Annual Conference<http://www.ieca.org/conference/annual/ec.asp> will be held in Orlando, Florida. This conference is designed as an educational event for the erosion, sediment control, and stormwater industry. There will be full- and half-day training courses with topic-focused technical sessions and a large vendor exposition.



Cape Cod Natural History Conference-Call for Presentations - On March 12, 2011, the MassAudubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary will hold the 16th annual Cape Cod Natural History Conference<http://www.massaudubon.org/Nature_Connection/Sanctuaries/Wellfleet/news.php?id=1550&event=no> at Cape Cod Community College in West Barnstable. Abstracts of oral and poster presentations that describe research projects and methods/results that focus on the ecology, behavior, status, or distribution of local plants, animals, or natural communities on Cape Cod are welcomed. For more information, contact Melissa Lowe at mlowe at massaudubon.org<mailto:mlowe at massaudubon.org>. Proposals are due by December 31.



Marine Debris Conference - On March 20-25, 2011, the Fifth International Marine Debris Conference<http://www.5imdc.org/> will be held in Honolulu, Hawaii. Organized by NOAA and the United Nations Environment Programme, the conference will highlight research advances, allow sharing of strategies and best practices to assess, reduce, and prevent the impacts of marine debris, and provide an opportunity for the development of specific bilateral or multi-country strategies.



Coastal Geotools 2011 - From March 21-24, 2011, Coastal Geotools 2011<http://geotools.csc.noaa.gov/default.aspx> will be held in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This conference series focuses on the technical information needs of the nation's coastal programs. To that end, the following topics will be discussed: applications of digital coast, oil spill applications, coastal and marine spatial planning, coastal hazards and climate adaptation, social science applications, visualization techniques, data sharing and interoperability, technology innovation, business cases or return on investment, ecosystem services, participatory geographic information systems, and regional ocean governance.



Reminders - The following calendar items posted in the last CZ-Mail are still to come:

·         Submerged Lands Management Webinar Series - The 29th annual International Submerged Lands Management Conference Webinar Series<http://www.submergedlandsconference.com> will run biweekly through mid-December. Webinar sessions are designed to increase awareness of the management issues surrounding submerged lands within the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean, and to provide a forum for discussion about submerged lands issues.

·         Planning and Zoning Workshops - This fall, the Citizen Planner Training Collaborative<http://www.umass.edu/masscptc/> (CPTC) at UMass Amherst offered more than 20 training workshops for members of Massachusetts Planning Boards and Zoning Boards of Appeal. The final session, Vested Rights and Non-Conforming Uses, will be held on December 8. For details and to register, see the program flyer<http://www.umass.edu/masscptc/pdfs/3pg_fall_2010.pdf> (PDF, 149 KB).

·         Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference-Call for Abstracts - On May 17-18, 2011, the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission will hold the 22nd annual Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference<http://www.neiwpcc.org/npsconference/> in Saratoga Springs, New York. Submissions for conference presentations are due by December 30.

·         Global Summit on Coastal Seas-Call for Abstracts - On August 28-31, 2011, the ninth international meeting on Environmental Management for Enclosed Coastal Seas<http://www.conference.ifas.ufl.edu/EMECS9/> (EMECS 9): Managing for Results in our Coastal Seas will be held in Baltimore, Maryland. EMECS 9 will focus on scientifically sound, sustainable restoration approaches. For details and instructions on abstract submissions, see the EMECS 9 website<http://www.conference.ifas.ufl.edu/EMECS9/call_ab.html>. Abstracts are due by January 14, 2011.

·         Natural Resource Damages in the Gulf Conference - On January 20-21, 2011, Law Seminars International will hold the first Natural Resource Damages in the Gulf Conference<http://www.lawseminars.com/detail.php?SeminarCode=11NRDFL> in Miami, Florida. This conference will discuss the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, with a more national focus on the latest developments in natural resource damages law.



CZM in the News

Below are links to recent news and journal articles that feature CZM. (Articles may only be available for a limited time. Not working? Try copying the web address directly into your browser, rather than clicking on it.)

·         A plan for the harbor being considered (Cohasset Mariner, 11/19/10) -
http://www.wickedlocal.com/cohasset/news/x1892559797/A-plan-for-the-harbor-being-considered

·         Patrick-Murray administration announces start of flood mitigation and salt marsh restoration project in Cohasset (EEA Press Release, 11/16/10) -
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=101116_pr_flood_mitigation&csid=Eoeea



In the News

Below are links to recent news and journal articles on coastal issues. (Articles may only be available for a limited time. Not working? Try copying the web address directly into your browser, rather than clicking on it.)

·         Extremely active Atlantic hurricane season was a 'gentle giant' for U.S. (NOAA News, 11/29/10) -
http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2010/20101129_hurricaneseason.html

·         Lost and found in the sands of time: Planks believed to be from '27 shipwreck (Boston Globe, 11/27/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/11/27/planks_found_on_cape_believed_to_be_from_27_shipwreck/

·         Salazar wants quicker wind-power permitting (Boston Globe, 11/24/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2010/11/24/salazar_wants_quicker_wind_power_permitting/

·         Seaside residents call Marshfield sea-wall funding proposal unfair (Patriot Ledger, 11/24/10) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/topstories/x1966817067/Seaside-residents-call-Marshfield-sea-wall-funding-proposal-unfair

·         Harbor funding sparks outcry (Standard-Times, 11/24/10) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101124/NEWS/11240339

·         Cape Wind wins approval of deal to sell power (Standard-Times, 11/23/10) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101123/NEWS/11230310

·         Barnstable grapples with wastewater dilemma (Cape Cod Times, 11/23/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101123/NEWS/11230306/-1/NEWS01

·         MVC approves state-financed Oak Bluffs fishing pier (Martha's Vineyard Times, 11/23/10) -
http://www.mvtimes.com/marthas-vineyard/article.php?id=3571

·         State gives National Grid approval to purchase Cape Wind power (Boston Globe - The Green Blog, 11/22/10) -
http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/green/greenblog/2010/11/state_gives_national_grid_appr.html?p1=News_links

·         State officials hope Cape Wind jump-starts new business (Patriot Ledger, 11/22/10) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/topstories/x1231755218/State-officials-hope-Cape-Wind-jump-starts-new-business

·         Department of Public Utilities approves contract for offshore wind power (EEA Press Release, 11/22/10) -
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=101122_pr_cape_wind&csid=Eoeea

·         Lack of permits is costly for Cape Wind (Boston Globe, 11/20/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/11/20/lack_of_permits_is_costly_for_cape_wind/

·         NE Offshore Wind Summit: 'not in the business of building fields of dreams' (Block Island Times, 11/20/10) -
http://www.blockislandtimes.com/view/full_story/10382931/article-NE-Offshore-Wind-Summit--%E2%80%98not-in-the-business-of-building-fields-of-dreams%E2%80%99?instance=home_news_1st_right

·         Governor's Academy seniors measure PI beach erosion patterns (Daily News of Newburyport, 11/18/10) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x852123573/Governors-Academy-seniors-measure-PI-beach-erosion-patterns

·         Shipwreck unearthed at Nauset Beach (Cape Cod Times, 11/18/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101118/NEWS/11180326

·         Company to pay $6m in Buzzards Bay spill (Boston Globe, 11/16/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/11/16/company_to_pay_6m_in_buzzards_bay_spill/

·         Bouchard to pay $6M in damages for 2003 oil spill (Standard-Times, 11/16/10) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101116/NEWS/11160309

·         NOAA enforces right whale ship strike reduction rule (NOAA News, 11/16/10) -
http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2010/20101116_rightwhale.html

·         State set to flip switch on wind deal (Cape Cod Times, 11/15/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101115/NEWS/11150312

·         Sand washes off PI beach: Homeowners seek emergency measures to protect property (Daily News of Newburyport, 11/15/10) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x552969759/Sand-washes-off-PI-beach

·         City funds 17 hoping for I-4, C-2 projects (Gloucester Times, 11/15/10) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/topstories/x552970708/City-funds-17-hoping-for-I-4-C-2-projects

·         Patrick-Murray administration announces six grants to fund ecological restoration projects (EEA Press Release, 11/15/10) -
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=101115_pr_ecological_restoration&csid=Eoeea

·         Gonsalves: Oysters precious as rare pearls (Cape Cod Times, 11/14/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101114/NEWS/11140330/-1/NEWS01

·         89,000 rode on the ferry this year (Salem News, 11/13/10) -
http://www.salemnews.com/local/x1071085968/89-000-rode-on-the-ferry-this-year

·         As glaciers melt, science seeks data on rising seas (New York Times, 11/13/10) -
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/14/science/earth/14ice.html?ref=science

·         About 700 property owners step up for Buzzards Bay oil spill settlement (Patriot Ledger, 11/12/10) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/business/x1428446826/About-700-property-owners-step-up-for-Buzzards-Bay-oil-spill-settlement

·         Harbor Trust denies New Bedford (Standard-Times, 11/12/10) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101112/NEWS/11120318

·         PI property assessments challenged: Beachfront property owners say value eroded with beach (Daily News of Newburyport, 11/11/10) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x892104221/PI-property-assessments-challenged

·         Patrick-Murray administration announces grants to protect 880 acres of land in 19 communities across the Commonwealth (EEA Press Release, 11/9/10) -
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=101108_pr_land_grants&csid=Eoeea

·         Signs of progress at Quincy's Wollaston Beach (Patriot Ledger, 11/8/10) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/topstories/x742802828/Signs-of-progress-at-Quincy-s-Wollaston-Beach

·         City faces new EPA order on sewer plants (Gloucester Times, 11/7/10) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/local/x2073124546/City-faces-new-EPA-order-on-sewer-plants

·         Town threatens to exit (Martha's Vineyard Gazette, 11/5/10) -
http://www.mvgazette.com/article.php?27964

·         Mapping ecosystems, the better to conserve them (New York Times - Green Blog, 11/5/10) -
http://green.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/11/05/mapping-ecosystems-the-better-to-conserve-them/?ref=science

·         Seminar to look at energy disputes (Boston Globe, 11/4/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2010/11/04/plymouth_conference_will_examine_social_issues_in_wind_energy_planning/

·         City faces new EPA orders on runoff (Gloucester Times, 11/3/10) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/topstories/x603544782/City-faces-new-EPA-orders-on-runoff

·         Rising seas and the groundwater equation (New York Times - Green Blog, 11/2/10) -
http://green.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/11/02/rising-seas-and-the-groundwater-equation/

·         NOAA launches education website with new look and content (NOAA News, 11/2/10) -
http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2010/20101102_educationwebsite.html

·         New way of removing excess nitrogen from the environment (ScienceDaily, 11/2/10) -
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/11/101101151853.htm

·         Report links mercury on Cape Cod to global pollution (Cape Cod Times, 11/1/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101101/NEWS/11010307/-1/NEWS01

·         NOAA: Ship speed restrictions to protect endangered North Atlantic right whales (NOAA News, 11/1/10) -
http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2010/20101101_shipstrike.html

·         Another suit leveled at wind farm (Cape Cod Times, 10/30/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101030/NEWS/10300306

·         Study traces Sengekontacket's troubles (Martha's Vineyard Gazette, 10/29/10) -
http://www.mvgazette.com/article.php?27888



Other Items of Interest

2010 National Wetlands Awards - Nominations are being sought for the 2011 National Wetlands Awards<http://www.nationalwetlandsawards.org/>. Administered by the Environmental Law Institute and supported by a partnership of six federal agencies, this award program honors individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to the conservation and restoration of our nation's wetlands in six categories: education and outreach; science research; conservation and restoration; landowner stewardship; state, tribal, and local program development; and wetland community leader. Nominations are due by December 15.



Marine Policy Fellowships - The NOAA Sea Grant College Program is accepting applications for the 2011 Dean John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship Program<http://www.seagrant.noaa.gov/knauss/>. This one-year program aims to provide a unique educational experience to students who have an interest in ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources and the national policy decisions affecting those resources. The program matches highly qualified graduate students with hosts in the legislative and executive branches, or appropriate associations/institutions, located in the area of Washington, DC, for a one year paid fellowship. Applications are due by February 18, 2011.



Research Experience for Undergraduates - Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences is seeking applications from undergraduate students for the 2011 Research Experience for Undergraduates<http://www.bigelow.org/education/reu/> summer research program, Gulf of Maine and the World Ocean. Eight students will be selected to receive hands-on research experience in marine microbial food webs, ocean biogeochemistry, optical oceanography, remote sensing, sensory biology, climate change, and fisheries oceanography. The application package will be available this month and applications will be accepted between January 15, 2011 and March 15, 2011.







Commonwealth of Massachusetts - Deval L. Patrick, Governor

Timothy P. Murray, Lieutenant Governor

Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs - Ian A. Bowles, Secretary

Office of Coastal Zone Management - Deerin Babb-Brott, Director

Editor - Robin Lacey<mailto:robin.lacey at state.ma.us?subject=December%202010%20CZ-Mail>

Internet Coordinator - Joe Pelczarski

Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management

251 Causeway Street, Suite 800

Boston, MA 02114-2136

(617) 626-1200

CZM Information Line - (617) 626-1212

CZM Website - www.mass.gov/czm<http://www.mass.gov/czm>

A publication of the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management pursuant
to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Award No. NA09NOS4190119.

This publication is funded (in part) by a grant/cooperative agreement from the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The views expressed herein are those of the author(s) and
do not necessarily reflect the views of NOAA
or any of its sub-agencies.

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