[SEMCO] November 2010 CZ-Mail
Cz-Mail, (ENV)
Cz-Mail at state.ma.us
Mon Nov 1 11:11:38 EDT 2010
CZ-MAIL
November 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=November%202010%20CZ-Mail>.
Straits Pond Restoration Project Complete
In October, the towns of Hull, Cohasset, and Hingham, the Straits Pond Watershed Association, state and federal legislators, agency representatives, nonprofit organizations, and dozens of local residents gathered to celebrate the completion of the West Corner Bridge reconstruction-marking the end of the $2.8 million Straits Pond Restoration Project-the largest tidal restoration project to date in the Commonwealth. Culverts between Straits Pond and the Weir River estuary were enlarged and expanded tide gates were installed. These upgrades are designed to increase tidal exchange between Straits Pond and the Weir River and will restore 94 acres of tidal pond habitat and improve tidal flow to a critically impaired estuary, which is part of the Weir River Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) and provides valuable nursery and feeding habitat for a variety of recreational and commercial fish. Improved water quality will also reduce nuisance algal blooms and seasonal infestations of midges that have been a serious quality-of-life issue for area residents for decades. Project partners include CZM, the Department of Fish and Game's (DFG) Division of Ecological Restoration (DER), the Department of Conservation and Recreation's (DCR) ACEC Program, the Massachusetts Bays Program (MBP), the Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), the Department of Transportation, the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization, the Gulf of Maine Council, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the Federal Highway Program, the Conservation Law Foundation/Restore America's Estuaries program, the towns of Hull, Cohasset, and Hingham, the Center for Student Coastal Research, Boston University, and the Straits Pond and Weir River Watershed Associations. Also, Senator Robert Hedlund, Representative Garrett Bradley, and Congressman William Delahunt were instrumental in securing state and federal funds for bridge reconstruction. CZM's South Shore Regional Coordinator, Jason Burtner, spent many hours spearheading this effort over the last decade.
CZM Receives Federal Grant for Data Acquisition and Management
Through a competitive grant program offered by NOAA's Office of Ocean and Coastal Resources Management, CZM secured $148,800 in federal funding to expand, modernize, and improve the Massachusetts Ocean Resources Information System (MORIS)<http://www.mass.gov/czm/mapping/index.htm> by incorporating critical land-use and permit information, expanding its accessibility, and providing training and outreach to end users. The program was highly competitive: of 21 eligible applications vying for $1 million in available funding, CZM's was one of six successful proposals. Resources from this grant will be used to:
1. Modernize the Massachusetts Shoreline Change Project<http://www.mass.gov/czm/hazards/shoreline_change/shorelinechangeproject.htm> by developing a contemporary shoreline, analyzing change rates, and serving this information as geospatial data on MORIS.
2. Develop a coastal permit geo-database to manage, track, and assess federal consistency applications and decisions. This searchable geo-database will capture specific information about project permits and allow its integration into MORIS so that resulting data layers can be mapped. Initial data mining will cover projects that have received federal consistency concurrence over the past 10 years and focus on coastal hazards management, including shoreline stabilization, dredging, beach nourishment, and ocean dredge material disposal projects.
3. Maximize MORIS use and accessibility by publicizing the availability of new MORIS data/features, developing guidance materials, and training end users.
Stay tuned to CZ-Mail for progress reports on this project.
James Brook Flood Mitigation and Salt Marsh Restoration Project Set to Break Ground
Work is set to begin on the James Brook culvert replacement project in Cohasset. Through this project, an undersized and deteriorating culvert and flapper-style tide gates will be replaced by an enlarged culvert and automated sluice-style tide gate. Early in the 20th century, the 14-acre Jacobs Meadow salt marsh was fragmented from Cohasset Harbor when Border Street was constructed. The undersized culvert that was installed to connect James Brook to the harbor limited stream and stormwater flows from James Brook-resulting in the flooding of residences and the town center area. It also reduced tidal flow to Jacobs Meadow, causing a proliferation of the invasive plant, Phragmites australis. Design and construction of the new culvert and tide gate will be funded by $450,000 in Seaport Council capital funds managed by CZM in partnership with the DFG. Project partners include CZM, DER, MBP, the National Marine Fisheries Service Habitat Conservation Division, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Cohasset Center for Student Coastal Research. This project also complements and builds on previous flood mitigation work funded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency.
State Hazard Mitigation Team Member Receives Award
In September, Richard Zingarelli, DCR's Flood Hazard Management Program Manager and Acting State Hazard Mitigation Officer, was presented with the Government Civil Engineer Award by the Boston Society of Civil Engineers Section (BSCES) of the American Society of Civil Engineers. This annual award is given to a BSCES member who serves as a paid public sector engineer at a federal, state, municipal agency, department, or authority in Massachusetts. Rich was recognized for his more than 30 years of experience in water resource planning and engineering while working for DCR, the USACE, and Narragansett Bay Estuary Program. In addition to being a valuable member of the Hazard Mitigation Team, Rich also serves as the State Coordinator for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). As the State NFIP Coordinator, he is the primary liaison for the Commonwealth's communities, state agencies, businesses, and individual property owners to provide information on the NFIP, FEMA flood maps, and general floodplain management. Rich works closely with CZM Shoreline and Floodplain Management staff on coastal floodplain management issues and we congratulate him on this well deserved honor.
CZ-Tip: Boat Winterizing-Keep It Green
As the cold weather settles in, most boat owners are removing their vessels from the water and storing them for the winter. Boats must be properly prepared for storage to ensure that all parts and systems are protected from the weather and are not harmed from the lack of use. This process, referred to as winterizing or decommissioning, can impact the environment if not done properly. Oil may spill during and oil change, fuel can degrade if not stabilized, soaps and detergents can harm marine life, bottom paint can wash into the water during pressure washing, and boat sewage can pollute coastal waters if not disposed of properly. For more information and specific tips to winterize your boat in an environmentally sensitive manner, see the CZ-Tip: Boat Winterizing-Keep It Green<http://www.mass.gov/czm/tips/boat_winterizing.htm>.
CZM Staff & People
Andrea Cooper Retires - CZM Shoreline and Floodplain Manager Andrea Cooper retired from state service in October. Andrea had been with CZM for 14 years, serving as the North Shore Regional Coordinator from 1996-2005, Smart Growth Coordinator from 2005-2008, and for the past two years, as Shoreline and Floodplain Manager. While outspoken and funny, Andrea was serious about making a difference. Some of her award-winning accomplishments at CZM include:
* As Regional Coordinator, Andrea established the state's first regional networks of local officials to provide technical assistance and promote group problem solving and information sharing. For this she received the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions First Regional Environmental Protection Award in 2002.
* Andrea co-founded the Green Neighborhood Alliance, a group of local officials, developers, environmentalist, and realtors that worked together to promote the concept of conservation subdivision design-where houses are clustered into a village-like atmosphere surrounded by protected open space. For this she received the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Environmental Merit Award in 2004.
* As Smart Growth Coordinator, she helped developed the state's smart growth toolkit and started the Low Impact Development Working Group-a similar mix of businesses, environmentalists, and local officials committed to getting things done. In 2007, she received the Low Impact Development Center National Achievement Award for Capacity Building.
* Finally, as Shoreline and Floodplain Manager, Andrea helped develop and implement the StormSmart Coasts program-a nationally recognized program that provides a menu of options for local officials to address the challenges arising from storms, floods, sea level rise, and climate change.
CZM thanks Andrea for her 15 years of accomplishments, her unfailing good humor over the years, and her virtually bottomless candy bowl. Although we miss her already, we know she is headed for an amazing retirement, living on the Gulf Coast of Florida with her husband of more than 30 years, Coop.
Aquatic Invasive Species Program Intern - In October, CZM welcomed Christopher McIntyre as an intern to help compile and interpret marine species data collected during the 2007 and 2010 Rapid Assessment Surveys. These surveys were multi-state efforts to collect, identify, and catalogue marine organisms in coastal waters from Cape Cod through Maine's mid-coast. In addition, he will assist Aquatic Invasive Species Program staff in evaluating the non-native rock pool shrimp, Palaemon elegans, first discovered in Massachusetts during the 2010 survey. Chris is currently a graduate student at the University of Massachusetts, Boston. Welcome aboard Chris!
Geology Technical Assistance Intern - In October, CZM also welcomed Alex Poverchuk as a volunteer intern. Alex will research coastal geology technical assistance and permit files to compile recommendations that address various coastal processes questions from local officials and enhance review of projects on similar topics. Alex is an undergraduate student at Salem State University. Welcome aboard Alex!
Grants/Funding/Proposal Opportunities
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, including protecting and enhancing coastal habitat, reducing and preventing stormwater pollution, protecting and enhancing shellfish resources, managing local land use and growth, managing municipal wastewater, managing marine invasive species, monitoring marine and estuarine waters, and adapting for the projected impacts of climate changes. Eligible applicants include cities, towns, and other public entities, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations. Up to $40,000 may be requested and a minimum of 25 percent match of the total project cost (cash or in-kind) must be provided. 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.
Reminders - These opportunities listed in the last CZ-Mail are still available:
* Open Rivers Initiative - The NOAA Open Rivers Initiative<http://www.habitat.noaa.gov/funding/ori.html> provides funding and technical expertise for community-driven, small dam and river barrier removals, primarily in coastal states. Proposals are due by November 17.
* 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>. Optional letters of intent are due by November 29. Full applications must be submitted online<http://www.gulfofmaine.org/grantapp/> from February 2 to March 15, 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
Low Impact Development in the Ipswich River Basin - The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has released the report Effects of Low-Impact-Development (LID) Practices on Streamflow, Runoff Quantity, and Runoff Quality in the Ipswich River Basin, Massachusetts-A Summary of Field and Modeling Studies<http://pubs.usgs.gov/circ/1361/>, which provides condensed study results from a DCR cooperative study with USGS funded by an EPA Targeted Watershed Grant for the Ipswich River. The report describes three of the nine demonstration projects funded under the grant, as well as the results from a modeling study evaluating the theoretical effects of applying LID techniques and various water conservation strategies widely across the Ipswich Watershed. Results for the other six demonstration projects are summarized on the project website<http://www.mass.gov/dcr/watersupply/ipswichriver/index.htm>.
Effect of Environmentally Sensitive Site Design and LID on Stormwater - The July-August 2010 issue of Stormwater features an article, co-authored by DCR's Sara Cohen, about the stormwater infrastructure at Partridgeberry Place, a subdivision in Ipswich. Effectiveness of Environmentally Sensitive Site Design and LID on Stormwater Runoff Patterns<http://www.stormh2o.com/july-august-2010/effectiveness-environmentally-sensitive.aspx> describes the hydrological similarities between this subdivision and an undeveloped natural landscape. Partridgeberry Place was constructed with LID features such as dry wells, vegetated swales, bioretention systems, raingardens, reduced impervious area, and native drought-resistant vegetation. The results show how closely LID design mimics pre-development watershed conditions. For more information about the Partridgeberry Place project as an Open Space Residential Design Suburban Case Study, see the EEA website<http://www.mass.gov/envir/smart_growth_toolkit/pages/CS-osrd-ipswich_new.html>.
Ebb & Flow - The October 2010 issue of Ebb & Flow<http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/der/newsletters/ebbflow5.htm>, the eNewsletter of the Department of Fish and Game's Division of Ecological Restoration, highlights the recent release of BioMap2 and provides updates on river and coastal restoration projects. It also includes sections on grants, resources, and events.
Design Manual for Nutrient Removal at Treatment Plants - EPA's Office of Research and Development has published a new, updated design manual for the removal of nitrogen and phosphorus at municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). The Nutrient Control Design Manual<http://www.epa.gov/nrmrl/pubs/600r10100/600r10100.pdf> (PDF, 9.85 MB) presents an extensive review of the engineering design and operation of nitrogen and phosphorous control technologies and techniques applied at WWTPs. Other current nutrient control issues, such as emerging and innovative technologies and nutrient recovery and reuse, are also presented.
Census of Marine Life - The First Census of Marine Life 2010: Highlights of a Decade of Discovery<http://www.coml.org/highlights-2010> is a 64-page report that describes a 10-year international effort undertaken to assess the diversity, distribution, and abundance of marine life. The Census addressed these issues globally and engaged more than 2,700 scientists from around the world.
Managing Large Marine Areas - Conservation International and Fauna & Flora International have released the report entitled Comparison of Approaches to Management of Large Marine Areas<http://www.conservation.org/publications/Pages/Comparison_of_Approaches_to_Management_of_Large_Marine_Areas.aspx>, which examines the strengths and weaknesses of five approaches to the management of large marine areas-marine ecoregions, seascapes, large marine ecosystems, regional seas, and integrated coastal management.
National Climate Adaptation Report - The report from the National Climate Adaptation Summit, held in Washington D.C. in May 2010, is now available. The National Climate Adaptation Summit Report<http://www.joss.ucar.edu/events/2010/ncas/ncas_report.pdf> (PDF, 2.7 MB) presents seven high priority, near-term actions to help better prepare the United States for a changing climate.
Coastal Management Newsletter - The October 2010 edition of NOAA's Coastal Program Division's Coastal Management News<http://coastalmanagement.noaa.gov/news/czmnewsletter.html> features articles about a regional coastal and estuarine lands initiative in New England, the National Ocean Council and national ocean policy planning, and more.
Runoff Rundown - The fall 2010 issue of Runoff Rundown<http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=soo9m4bab&v=001EbGq4AQcELRGF1SvH01BRO3EbIyuqT5YIzTFIDFGAqxwdvxDvENW5oX58jPNUZDy117jYUYNopF1R_Pz_AIPNl9fiPQznDspnBlJQa6_MCVuoJXrABoWVg%3D%3D>, the quarterly electronic newsletter of the Center for Watershed Protection, is now available. The Center for Watershed Protection is a national organization that works to protect, restore, and enhance streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands, and bays. Runoff Rundown covers current Center project work, provides information on the latest technical research, and lists the latest events, articles, and resources for the watershed professional.
Marine Ecosystems and Management Information Service - The October/November 2010 edition of Marine Ecosystems and Management<http://depts.washington.edu/meam/> (MEAM), the bimonthly information service on marine ecosystem-based management (EBM) from the University of Washington School of Marine Affairs, features articles on the role of science in EBM, the effects of the new U.S. Ocean Policy on marine protected areas, and other notes and news.
Right Whale News - The September 2010 issue of Right Whale News<http://www.rightwhaleweb.org/pdf/rwn/rwsep10.pdf> (PDF, 189 KB) is now available online. Right Whale News is a quarterly newsletter distributed electronically to participants in conservation and recovery of the North Atlantic right whale and its habitats.
Climate Change and Greenhouse Gas Offset Protocol Development - Restore America's Estuaries is leading an initiative to develop a national greenhouse gas (GHG) offset protocol for tidal wetlands restoration<https://www.estuaries.org/climate-change.html>. The restoration of tidal wetlands, salt marshes, mangroves and other coastal habitats offers significant potential for sequestering carbon. A Blue Ribbon Panel Workshop was held in April 2010. Using input from this workshop, Restore America's Estuaries prepared an Action Plan to Guide Protocol Development<https://www.estuaries.org/images/stories/rae-action-plan-tidal-wetlandsghg-offset-protocol-aug-2010.pdf> (PDF, 727 KB).
Websites
Living on the Real World - Living on the Real World<http://colorado.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b72140489b80a4574373938a1&id=835f24881d&e=4051a4f944> is a blog that grapples with issues of human resource consumption, sustainability, and vulnerability in the face of climatic and environmental reality. Written by American Meteorological Society policy director Bill Hooke, the blog aims to jump start thinking about the problems of living in an overextended world and how people can work together to make change.
iMap Weather - iMap Weather<http://colorado.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b72140489b80a4574373938a1&id=d4b7889c66&e=4051a4f944> provides forecasts, radar and satellite images, and information on tornadoes, lightning, hurricanes, and other severe weather. This one-stop weather spot also allows users to upload weather photos/videos and have personalized forecasts sent to their inboxes.
Public Comment
Reminder - The following comment opportunities posted in the last CZ-Mail are still open:
* Performance Standards for Marine Sanitation Devices - EPA is seeking comments on a request to revise regulations for marine sanitation devices (MSDs). An MSD is an apparatus that treats and/or manages sewage on vessels. The request asks that EPA create performance standards for MSDs and establish monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements to ensure compliance with the new standards. EPA has not made a decision on whether to grant or deny the requests, nor are they proposing any changes to the performance standards or other provisions of its regulations at this time. The purpose of this comment opportunity is to obtain the public's input to help EPA determine appropriate action. For details see the EPA website<http://www.epa.gov/owow/oceans/regulatory/frnotice_marinesanitation.html>. Comments are due by November 9.
* 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 13.
Calendar
StormSmart Coasts Building Workshop - On November 17, as part of a CZM StormSmart Coasts<http://www.mass.gov/czm/stormsmart/index.htm> community pilot project, the towns of Duxbury, Kingston, and Plymouth will host a workshop for engineering and building professionals<http://www.mass.gov/czm/docs/pdf/ssc_workshop_agenda.pdf> (PDF, 39 KB) that will promote responsible construction practices for effective coastal floodplain management. At the workshop, the Horsley Witten Group will highlight siting strategies and Simpson Strong-Tie will present construction techniques. The workshop will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Plymouth Town Hall. To RSVP, contact Jason Burtner at jason.burtner at state.ma.us<mailto:jason.burtner at state.ma.us>.
State of Wellfleet Harbor Conference - On November 6, the annual State of Wellfleet Harbor Conference<http://www.massaudubon.org/Nature_Connection/Sanctuaries/Wellfleet/listing.php?program_code=354-WF10FA1> will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Wellfleet Elementary School. Speakers are scheduled to talk about diseases of oysters and quahogs, mercury contamination in Wellfleet ponds, sand transport on beaches, salt marsh dieback in Wellfleet, and Herring River restoration alternatives and modeling results.
Social Challenge of Wind Energy Conference - On November 9, the Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences will hold the Social Challenge of Wind Energy Conference<http://www.manomet.org/our-initiatives/climate-change-energy/social-challenge-wind-energy-conference> in Plymouth. The conference will examine efficient and science-based ways to talk about wind energy. Attendees will hear from community leaders, developers, conservationists, and social outreach experts who have firsthand experience with wind power permitting and development. Panelists will discuss lessons learned from projects that faced significant social challenges as well as projects that were permitted and built without acrimonious opposition.
Boston Harbor Sea Level Rise Forum - On November 9-10, The Boston Harbor Association<http://www.tbha.org/> will hold the Boston Harbor Sea Level Rise Forum, which will bring together diverse constituents, including waterfront property owners, residents, public officials, business representatives, environmentalists, and community leaders. The opening session is on November 9 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. at the New England Aquarium IMAX Theatre. On November 10 from 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. participants are invited to the Moakley Federal Courthouse. Both sessions are free and open to the public. To register, please contact mail at tbha.org<mailto:mail at tbha.org>.
Cape Cod National Seashore Advisory Commission Meeting - On November 15 at 1:00 p.m., the Cape Cod National Seashore<http://www.nps.gov/caco/index.htm> Advisory Commission will meet at Cape Cod National Seashore Headquarters, Marconi Station, Wellfleet. The meeting is open to the public and interested parties may make oral/written presentations to the commission.
Climate and Energy Webcasts - Beginning on November 18, EPA's State and Local Climate and Energy Program will hold a three-part webcast series on climate change adaptation for state and local governments. The first webcast, entitled Climate Impacts and Risk Communication, will provide an introduction to adaptation and will include discussions on: the impacts and risks of climate change across the country; how adaptation differs from mitigation; engaging various stakeholder groups; and risk communication to build support for adaptation efforts. The December webcast will be on adaptation planning and implementation and the January 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/index.html>. To sign up for the November webcast, go to the registration web page<https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/289508083>.
Northeast Aquaculture Conference - On December 1-3, the 2010 Northeast Aquaculture Conference and Exposition<http://www.northeastaquaculture.org/> will be held in Plymouth. The conference will feature a full technical program, a trade show, and an opportunity to network with growers, scientists, and managers.
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, ensuring accountability and effective communication for successful integrated management of coastal seas. For more information and instructions on the abstract submission process 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, limits of damage claims, legal principles trustees rely on, natural resource injury assessment process, the most effective claims and defenses, and best strategies and tactics to handle large, complex litigation.
Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference-Call for Papers - On May 17-18, 2011, the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission will hold the 22nd Annual Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference in Saratoga Springs, New York. For more information, contact Clair Ryan at cryan at neiwpcc.org<mailto:cryan at neiwpcc.org>. Submissions for conference presentations are due by December 30.
Reminders - The following calendar items posted in the last CZ-Mail are still to come:
* Barnstable Land Trust Walks and Talks - Through autumn, the Barnstable Land Trust will hold numerous events as part of its Walks & Talks nature series. See the Barnstable Land Trust website<http://www.blt.org/02-What%20We%20Do/Walks%20And%20Talks.html>.
* 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 will offer more than 20 training workshops for members of Massachusetts Planning Boards and Zoning Boards of Appeal. Topics include introduction to the zoning act, planning locally for affordable housing strategies, special permits and variances, and many more. For details and to register, see the program flyer<http://www.umass.edu/masscptc/pdfs/3pg_fall_2010.pdf> (PDF, 149 KB).
* Marine Law Symposium - On November 4-5, the Roger Williams School of Law in Bristol, Rhode Island, will hold the two-day marine law symposium, Taking Stock: The Magnuson-Stevens Act Revisited<http://law.rwu.edu/academics/institutes-programs/marine-affairs-institute/symposia>. The symposium will examine the current and future state of this body of law as a resource management scheme, including the complex integration of scientific, economic, and social information.
* Marine Animal Stranding Field School - On November 5-7, the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary will hold a Cape Cod Field School weekend on Marine Animal Strandings<http://www.massaudubon.org/Nature_Connection/Sanctuaries/Wellfleet/listing.php?program_code=834-WF10FA1>, which will focus on the natural history, biology, and rescue of sea turtles and marine animals.
* Fall Film Series - On November 6 from 1:30-3:00 p.m., as part of the Hamilton-Wenham Library<http://www.hwlibrary.org/> Fall Film Series, the feature is the award-winning A Sea Change<http://www.aseachange.net>, which explores the impact of climate change on the world's oceans. The screening will be followed by a discussion of the film.
* Ocean Literacy Summit - On November 11-13, the New England Ocean Science Education Collaborative (NEOSEC) will hold the 2010 Ocean Literacy Summit<http://www.neosec.org/previous-summits/2010-summit> at the University of New Hampshire. Join fellow scientists, science writers, educators, policymakers, and ocean science literacy facilitators to exchange stories, network, and discuss how valuable the principles of Ocean Science Literacy are for communicating about the ocean.
* Coastal and Estuarine Habitat Restoration Conference - On November 13-17, Restore American Estuaries will hold the 5th National Conference and Expo on Coastal and Estuarine Habitat Restoration<http://www.estuaries.org/conference>, Preparing for Climate Change: Science, Practice, and Policy in Galveston, Texas. The five-day conference will explore the state-of-the-art in all aspects and scales of restoration and will be comprised of field sessions, plenary sessions, expert presentations, special evening events, workshops, a poster hall, and a restoration exposition.
* Natural Resource Damages Conference - On November 15-16, the sixth annual Natural Resource Damages Conference<http://www.lawseminars.com/detail.php?SeminarCode=10NRDNJ> will be held in Newark, New Jersey. This conference will address complex strategic, tactical, and substantive issues for both natural resource trustees and potentially responsible parties.
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.)
* Experts affirm sea level rise (Vineyard Gazette, 10/1/10) -
http://www.mvgazette.com/article.php?27535
* SSA onboard with state's 'no discharge area' plans (Martha's Vineyard Times, 9/29/10) -
http://www.mvtimes.com/marthas-vineyard/article.php?id=2824
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.)
* Scientists wade into wastewater debate (Cape Cod Times, 10/30/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101030/NEWS/10300327/-1/NEWS01
* Research: Barrier beach break benefiting Pleasant Bay (Cape Cod Times, 10/29/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101029/NEWS/10290315/-1/NEWS01
* Cape Cod Commission seeks to restrict development (Cape Cod Times, 10/29/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101029/NEWS/10290324/-1/NEWS01
* State, UMD agree to push offshore energy test site (Standard-Times, 10/28/10) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101028/NEWS/10280328
* Barnstable County shifts blame for wastewater woes (Cape Cod Times, 10/26/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101026/NEWS/10260312
* BOEMRE, DOE, and NOAA announce nearly $5 million for joint environmental research projects to advance ocean renewable energy (NOAA News, 10/26/10) -
http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2010/20101026_renewableenergy.html
* Consultant sees new hopes for harbor (Gloucester Times, 10/25/10) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/local/x708135677/Consultant-sees-new-hopes-for-harbor
* For Cape residents, a point of contention (Boston Globe, 10/23/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/10/23/for_cape_residents_a_point_of_contention/?s_campaign=8315
* Army Corps seeks to fix river jetties (Daily News of Newburyport, 10/23/10) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x154641081/Army-Corps-seeks-to-fix-river-jetties
* Erosion sparks question of who owns 'paper' roads (Cape Cod Times, 10/23/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101023/NEWS/10230327/-1/NEWS01
* Study: Wind projects will stimulate economy (Cape Cod Times, 10/22/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101022/NEWS/10220324/-1/NEWS01
* Making a mighty effort to hold back the hungry sea (Boston Globe, 10/21/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2010/10/21/dredging_project_helps_fortify_plum_island_and_salisbury_shores/
* Woman wins OK to rebuild PI house (Daily News of Newburyport, 10/21/10) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x693284248/Woman-wins-OK-to-rebuild-PI-house
* Patrick leads celebration of New Bedford's Cape Wind coup (Standard-Times, 10/21/10) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101021/NEWS/10210336
* Ferry project receives $1.38m (Boston Globe, 10/21/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2010/10/21/lynn_commuter_ferry_project_gets_state_funding_to_build_terminal/
* Despite rainy year, state is parched (Boston Globe, 10/21/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/10/21/despite_rainy_year_state_is_parched/
* New Bedford to be staging area for wind turbine pieces (Boston Globe, 10/20/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/10/20/new_bedford_to_be_staging_area_for_wind_turbine_pieces/
* New Bedford lands Cape Wind terminal (Standard-Times, 10/20/10) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101020/NEWS/10200341
* New Bedford port terminal to host offshore wind assembly and construction (Commonwealth of Massachusetts Press Release, 10/20/10) -
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=101020_new_bedford_wind&csid=Agov3
* MVC fishing pier hearing reels in avid supporters (Martha's Vineyard Times, 10/20/10) -
http://www.mvtimes.com/marthas-vineyard/article.php?id=3003
* Sale of PI property moves ahead (Daily News of Newburyport, 10/18/10) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x1744206425/Sale-of-PI-property-moves-ahead
* UMass lab in Gloucester to be home to tuna research center (Gloucester Times, 10/16/10) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/local/x154635591/UMass-lab-in-Gloucester-to-be-home-to-tuna-research-center
* Shoring up a heritage: Corps of Engineers reclaims Plum Island Beach from Atlantic (Boston Globe, 10/15/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/10/15/corps_of_engineers_reclaims_plum_island_beach_from_atlantic/
* Barnstable restricts new docks and piers (Cape Cod Times, 10/15/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101015/NEWS/10150333
* Nitrogen tips pond's delicate balance (Vineyard Gazette, 10/15/10) -
http://www.mvgazette.com/article.php?27683
* Discovery of pre-Revolutionary War wharf may delay project (Daily News of Newburyport, 10/15/10) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x1156733295/Discovery-of-pre-Revolutionary-War-wharf-may-delay-project
* Wildlife officials and The Nature Conservancy announce publication of BioMap2 (EEA Press Release, 10/15/10) -
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=101015_pr_biomap&csid=Eoeea
* Beach-building effort comes up short (Daily News of Newburyport, 10/14/10) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x935815670/Beach-building-effort-comes-up-short
* PI Center beach restored (Daily News of Newburyport, 10/14/10) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x1637968983/PI-Center-beach-restored
* Grant of $2.5M to aid wharf makeover (Salem News, 10/14/10) -
http://www.salemnews.com/local/x1324603491/Grant-of-2-5M-to-aid-wharf-makeover
* Patrick-Murray Administration announces reopening of Hull shellfish bed (EEA Press Release, 10/13/10) -
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=101013_pr_hubline&csid=Eoeea
* Eastham weighs treating ponds (Cape Cod Times, 10/13/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101013/NEWS/10130329
* Drilling freeze ends early, but work must wait (Boston Globe, 10/13/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/science/articles/2010/10/13/drilling_freeze_ends_early_but_work_must_wait/
* Tail of a whale, snapped in 2 seas, reveals surprising wanderlust (Boston Globe, 10/13/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/10/13/tail_of_a_whale_snapped_in_2_seas_reveals_surprising_wanderlust/
* Lynn ferry project gets $1.3M grant (Lynn Item, 10/12/10) -
http://www.itemlive.com/articles/2010/10/13/news/news01.txt
* Offshore wind power line wins backing (New York Times, 10/12/10) -
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/12/science/earth/12wind.html?_r=1&hp
* National Working Waterways & Waterfronts Coalition formed (Boating Industry, 10/12/10) -
http://www.boating-industry.com/output.cfm?id=2653759
* Finally, sand gushes onto island (Daily News of Newburyport, 10/11/10) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x1644187740/Finally-sand-gushes-onto-island
* Cape Wind backers blew right by cost (Boston Globe, 10/10/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/science/articles/2010/10/10/cape_wind_backers_blew_right__by_cost/
* Newburyport lobbies to be official birthplace of the Coast Guard (Boston Globe, 10/10/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2010/10/10/newburyport_lobbies_to_be_official_birthplace_of_the_coast_guard/
* Swampscott Harbor to be dredged (Lynn Item, 10/10/10) -
http://www.itemlive.com/articles/2010/10/11/news/news01.txt
* Threatened right whales may get wider berth (Cape Cod Times, 10/9/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101009/NEWS/10090329/-1/NEWS01
* Newburyport officials hopeful on Plum Island sand (Daily News of Newburyport, 10/8/10) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x1274850259/Newburyport-officials-hopeful-on-Plum-Island-sand
* Grant to aid river dredging, pier parking (Salem News, 10/8/10) -
http://www.salemnews.com/local/x1305239968/Grant-to-aid-river-dredging-pier-parking
* Mussels men: Chilmark waters are big step for shellfish startup (Vineyard Gazette, 10/8/10) -
http://www.mvgazette.com/article.php?27628
* Ponds to host winter flounder as island aquaculture grows (Vineyard Gazette, 10/8/10) -
http://www.mvgazette.com/article.php?27629
* Too much of a good thing: Human activities overload ecosystems with nitrogen (Science Daily, 10/8/10) -
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/10/101007141106.htm
* Cape Wind awarded nation's first off-shore wind farm lease (Boston Globe, 10/7/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/10/07/cape_wind_awarded_nations_first_off_shore_wind_farm_lease/
* Offshore wind farm lease now official (Cape Cod Times, 10/7/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101007/NEWS/10070315
* Storms halt dredging, further erode beaches (Daily News of Newburyport, 10/7/10) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x1274849253/Storms-halt-dredging-further-erode-beaches
* City lands $500k for harbor walkway (Gloucester Times, 10/7/10) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/topstories/x921679627/City-lands-500k-for-harbor-walkway
* PI land sale will ensure beach access (Daily News of Newburyport, 10/6/10) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x1644183789/PI-land-sale-will-ensure-beach-access
* Cape lawsuit becomes selling point (Cape Cod Times, 10/6/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101006/NEWS/10060314
* North Atlantic right whales to get expanded critical habitat (Environmental News Service, 10/6/10) -
http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/oct2010/2010-10-06-092.html
* Business to get hit by Cape Wind (Cape Cod Times, 10/5/10) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101005/NEWS/10050323
* FEMA begins 18-month decertification process for hurricane barrier (Standard-Times, 10/4/10) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101004/NEWS/10040331
* Census shows connectedness of world's marine life (Boston Globe, 10/4/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/science/articles/2010/10/04/census_shows_connectedness_of_worlds_marine_life/?p1=Well_Science_links
* 13 stunning photos from 10-year sea census (National Geographic, 10/4/10) -
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/10/photogalleries/101004-census-of-marine-life-mr-blobby-new-species-photos-science-pictures/
* 'Thrilled' with bigger beach: New sand in Salisbury coarse and clean (Daily News of Newburyport, 10/2/10) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x231067205/Thrilled-with-bigger-beach
* New offshore drilling rules put in place (Boston Globe, 10/1/10) -
http://www.boston.com/news/science/articles/2010/10/01/new_offshore_drilling_rules_put_in_place/
Other Items of Interest
Teacher at Sea Program - The NOAA Teacher at Sea Program<http://teacheratsea.noaa.gov/> is accepting applications for the 2011 field season. The program provides a unique learning and teaching environment for teachers, kindergarten through college, aboard NOAA research and survey ships to work under the direction of NOAA scientists and crew. Applications are due by November 30.
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 provides a unique educational experience to students who have an interest in ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources and in 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.
National Ocean Sciences Bowl - The National Ocean Sciences Bowl<http://www.nosb.org/> is a nationally recognized and highly acclaimed high school academic competition that provides a forum for talented students to test their knowledge of the marine sciences, including biology, chemistry, physics, and geology. Over 300 schools and more than 2,000 students participate each year. The 2011 regional competition for Massachusetts<http://www.nosb.org/competitions-2/regional-competition-map/massachusetts/> will be held in Boston on February 5, 2011.
Youth Vision of Oceans Contest - On January 19-21, 2011, the National Council for Science and the Environment (NCSE) will hold the 11th National Conference on Science, Policy, and the Environment: Our Changing Oceans in Washington D.C. In preparation for this conference, NCSE wants to hear from the younger generation on their vision of the oceans over the next 20 years. The Oceans 2030: Youth Outlook contest<http://www.ncseonline.org/conference/Oceans/cms.cfm?id=4031> invites people aged 15-24 to submit a photo, video, or piece of art that express personal perspectives and identify key issues and solutions. Submissions will be evaluated on originality, creativity, and relevance to the theme. Winning entries will be showcased at the conference and published online in the Encyclopedia of Earth. Entries are due by November 22.
SPCC Rules Compliance Deadline Extended - In 2008 and 2009, EPA amended the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) rule. The compliance date for these changes has been extended for numerous facilities. Many coastal businesses (marinas, boatyards, yacht clubs, and others) are required to have SPCC plans for oil storage areas. The final rule makes changes to the secondary containment requirements, amends the security requirements, and amends the tank integrity testing requirements, among other changes. SPCC plans that incorporate these changes need to be finalized by November 10, 2011. For details, see EPA's Oil Spills website<http://www.epa.gov/oilspill/index.htm> and the SPCC Rule web page<http://www.epa.gov/emergencies/content/spcc/index.htm>.
Stellwagen Advisory Council - The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary<http://stellwagen.noaa.gov/> is seeking applicants for several seats on its Sanctuary Advisory Council. To receive an application kit, contact Elizabeth.Stokes at noaa.gov<mailto:Elizabeth.Stokes at noaa.gov>. Applications are due by November 19.
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=November%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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