[SEMCO] May 2011 CZ-Mail

Cz-Mail, (ENV) Cz-Mail at state.ma.us
Fri Apr 29 15:02:00 EDT 2011


CZ-MAIL

May 2011



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=May%202011%20CZ-Mail>.



No Discharge Area Application Submitted for Outer Cape Cod

On behalf of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), CZM has submitted an application to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to designate the state coastal waters from Chatham to Provincetown, including Nauset Harbor, as a vessel No Discharge Area (NDA). This designation would ban the discharge of all boat sewage (whether treated or not) into the state waters of Chatham, Orleans, Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, and Provincetown. EPA is currently reviewing the application, and its 30-day comment period is noticed in the April 29 Federal Register<http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2011/2011-10347.htm>. Comments are due by May 31. The Outer Cape Cod NDA will forward the Commonwealth's goal to designate all state waters as no discharge. Efforts are currently under way to authorize NDAs in the Commonwealth's remaining coastal waters, including Nantucket and Vineyard Sounds and Mt. Hope Bay. For more information about NDAs in Massachusetts, see CZM's NDA website<http://www.mass.gov/czm/nda/>.



CZM Hosts Hong Kong Delegation

On April 25, members of the Hong Kong Legislative Council's Harborfront Planning Subcommittee visited CZM as part of the Boston leg of a nine-day tour of selected waterfront cities in the United States and Canada. The representatives from the Hong Kong Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China were interested in learning about waterfront development and enhancement strategies and institutional arrangements for waterfront planning and management. During the visit, staff from CZM and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Waterways Program presented key aspects of the Commonwealth's tidelands policy and authorities, including the role of Municipal Harbor Plans and the development and release of a new presumptive tidelands jurisdiction map (see below in Websites). While in Boston, the Hong Kong delegation also met with The Boston Harbor Association and the Boston Redevelopment Authority. In addition to Boston, the group's itinerary included New York and Vancouver.



2011 Mass Bays Research and Planning Grants

The Massachusetts Bays National Estuary Program<http://www.mass.gov/envir/massbays/> is pleased to announce the award recipients of its Fiscal Year 2011 Research and Planning Grant Program. Projects funded through this inaugural program will identify the causes of coastal habitat degradation, develop plans to address coastal water quality pollution issues, and/or build local capacity to protect coastal resources. Grant awards will be provided to the following municipalities, nonprofits, and academic institutions:

·         Kingston - $14,795 to identify and address sources of polluted stormwater runoff to Kingston Bay;

·         The Jones River Watershed Association - $12,510 to develop a restoration plan for the Stony Brook/Tussock Brook Salt Marsh complex;

·         Ipswich - $16,284 to develop a Resource Management Plan for the Great Marsh Area of Critical Environmental Concern;

·         The Massachusetts Audubon Society - $19,529 for its ongoing work to restore oyster reef habitat in the town of Wellfleet;

·         Salisbury - $40,000 to develop improved local stormwater policies;

·         The Nature Conservancy and the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries - $40,000 to develop guidelines for shellfish bed restoration initiatives;

·         The Cape Cod Commercial Hook Fishermen Association - $15,000 to create a River Herring Warden Network for Cape Cod and southeastern Massachusetts;

·         The University of New Hampshire - $39,922 for research into the cause of the accelerated invasion by the Common Reed (Phragmites australis) into the Great Marsh on Massachusetts's North Shore.

Projects funded through this grant program will help the Massachusetts Bays Program, which is hosted by CZM, to implement its Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan. This plan serves as a blueprint for protecting the environmental health of Massachusetts Bay and Cape Cod Bay. Funding for the Massachusetts Bays Program and these grants is provided through an annual agreement with EPA.



CZ-Tip - Coastal Gardeners Can Get a Head Start on Spring Planting

Spring-tree buds bursting open with colorful blooms, bulb plants shooting up nobly through the ground, and new, soft, green growth emerging from the stems of shrubs and perennials. Spring is also the time to get out and plant, particularly if you live on the coast where temperatures are moderated by the ocean and the last freeze has likely already passed. But planting a coastal garden requires a few extra particulars. Most importantly, you should choose native plants that are suitable for coastal conditions, such as salt spray, wind, and dry, sandy, and nutrient-poor soils. See the CZ-Tip: Spring Planting on the Coast<http://www.mass.gov/czm/tips/spring_planting.htm> for climate facts, planting tips, and a few native plant suggestions to get you started.



CZM Staff and People

CZM's Ocean Services Manager Moves to New Post - John Weber, CZM's Ocean Services Manager, has accepted a new position as the Coastal and Marine Spatial Planning Managing Director with the Northeast Regional Ocean Council (NROC). In 2008, CZM welcomed John back as the Ocean Services Manager, filling a critical policy, planning, and coordinating role for the ocean planning efforts of CZM/EEA. John had spent the previous two years working for the Maine Coastal Program on wind energy and coastal land use issues. He also served as CZM's Boston Harbor Regional Coordinator in 2005-2006, where he played key roles in developing harbor plans for the Charlestown Navy Yard and Fort Point Channel. In his work as Ocean Services Manager, John brought significant effort, experience, insight, and professionalism to all the elements and complexities that went into developing and implementing the Massachusetts Ocean Management Plan and other key issue and program areas, including more recent work on offshore wind planning. John is assuming a key role for NROC and will be bringing his Massachusetts experience to bear on regional issues critical to Massachusetts. Although we will miss John at CZM, we look forward to working closely with him at NROC.



Grants/Funding/Proposal Opportunities

Parks and Conservation Land Grants - EEA's Division of Conservation Services is seeking applications for the fiscal year 2012 Parkland Acquisition and Renovation for Communities<http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeaterminal&L=5&L0=Home&L1=Grants+%26+Technical+Assistance&L2=Grant+%26+Loan+Programs&L3=Division+of+Conservation+Services+(DCS)&L4=Grant+Programs+offered+by+Division+of+Conservation+Services&sid=Eoeea&b=terminalcontent&f=eea_dcs_dcs_parc_program&csid=Eoeea> (PARC) and the Local Acquisition for Natural Diversity<http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeaterminal&L=5&L0=Home&L1=Grants+%26+Technical+Assistance&L2=Grant+%26+Loan+Programs&L3=Division+of+Conservation+Services+(DCS)&L4=Grant+Programs+offered+by+Division+of+Conservation+Services&sid=Eoeea&b=terminalcontent&f=eea_dcs_dcs_land_program&csid=Eoeea> (LAND) programs. PARC grants assist communities with the acquisition of parkland, as well as construction of new parks and renovation of existing parks. LAND grants provide funds to municipal conservation commissions for the purchase of conservation land. A grant workshop will be held on May 4 at 10:00 a.m.at 100 Cambridge Street, Boston. Please RSVP to Melissa Cryan at melissa.cryan at state.ma.us<mailto:melissa.cryan at state.ma.us> if interested in a PARC grant or Celia Riechel at celia.riechel at state.ma.us<mailto:celia.riechel at state.ma.us> if interested in a LAND grant. Applications are due by July 14.



Small Shipyard Grants -The U.S. Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration is seeking applications from small shipyards. Under this program, grants are available to qualified shipyards for capital and related infrastructure improvements that will facilitate efficiency, competitive operations, and quality ship construction, repair, and reconfiguration. For details, see the Federal Register Notice<http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2011/2011-10511.htm>. Applications are due by June 14.



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

·         §319 Grants - The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) is seeking proposals for the §319 Nonpoint Source Pollution Competitive Grants Program to fund comprehensive projects that address nonpoint sources of pollution affecting water quality. For details, see the Request for Responses (RFR) on the Comm-PASS website<https://www.ebidsourcing.com/displayPublicSearchAdvancedSolCriteriaEdit.do;jsessionid=LyXNzFXyWTnnlJXC13PsbfdvvCGBhBG4vMJGp7yvLGX1QLClThT8!160786355?doValidateToken=false&menu_id=2.3.3&org.apache.struts.taglib.html.TOKEN=f4d4cfd38316423111603bdb39dd69bb>. Search for document number "BRP 2011-01." For more information about past §319 projects, see MassDEP's website<http://www.mass.gov/dep/water/grants.htm>. Proposals are due by June 1.

·         FishAmerica Grants - FishAmerica, in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Restoration Center, is seeking proposals for grants to local communities and government agencies to restore habitat for marine and anadromous fish species. For details, see the FishAmerica website<http://www.fishamerica.org/grants/>. Proposals are due May 16.



Products/Publications

Ocean Survey Report - EPA has released the OSV Bold 2010 Annual Report<http://water.epa.gov/type/oceb/assessmonitor/upload/2010-OSV-Bold-Annual-Report.pdf> (PDF, 5 MB), which summarizes surveys completed by the Ocean Survey Vessel (OSV) Bold, EPA's coastal and ocean monitoring and assessment vessel. In 2010, the OSV Bold, supported scientific surveys along the Atlantic Coast, the Gulf of Mexico, the Florida Keys, and Caribbean Sea, including an eight-day cruise with CZM to collect samples of sediments and benthic organisms and shoot underwater videos of the seafloor and its marine life. The results are being used to ground-truth habitat maps of the seafloor created by CZM. The annual report highlights the Bold's scientific survey capabilities, survey accomplishments, and the unique role the vessel plays in supporting EPA's monitoring and assessment programs. The data gathered through Bold survey activities is essential in helping EPA make regulatory and policy decisions to control pollution sources. For more information, see the OSV Bold website<http://www.epa.gov/bold/>.



Cape Wind Energy Project Documents - The U.S. Department of the Interior's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement (BOEMRE) has released the Environmental Assessments, a Finding of No New Significant Impact, and a Record of Decision on whether to approve, approve with modifications, or disapprove a Construction and Operations Plan for the Cape Wind Energy Project located in Nantucket Sound. All three documents are available on the BOEMRE website<http://www.boemre.gov/offshore/RenewableEnergy/CapeWind.htm>.



EPA Clean Water Strategy - EPA has released Coming Together for Clean Water: EPA's Strategy to Protect America's Waters<https://blog.epa.gov/waterforum/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/ComingTogether-for-Clean-Water-FINAL.pdf> (PDF, 1.7 MB), which presents a framework for how EPA's national water program will work to address today's clean water challenges and achieve EPA's clean water goals.



Biodegradable Erosion Control Bulletin - The Woods Hole Sea Grant Program and Cape Cod Cooperative Extension have released the latest Marine Extension Bulletin, Biodegradable Erosion Control <http://www.whoi.edu/fileserver.do?id=82284&pt=2&p=88928> (PDF, 722 KB). This 4-page bulletin provides an overview of biodegradable erosion control methods, such as fiber rolls, sand envelopes, and erosion control mats made from coir, jute, and hemp.



Ocean Yearbook - The Ocean Yearbook is a peer-reviewed marine affairs publication produced jointly by the International Ocean Institute and the Marine & Environmental Law Institute at Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia, Canada. The Ocean Yearbook is seeking entries to an annual competition for student written research papers on marine affairs subjects. Successful papers will be published in the next Ocean Yearbook. For more information, see the 2011 announcement<http://law.dal.ca/Files/MEL_Institute/OYB/OYB_2010/Student_Prize_2011.pdf> (PDF, 20 KB). Submissions are due by May 15.



Coastal Management Newsletter - The April 2011 edition of NOAA's Coastal Program Division's Coastal Management News<http://coastalmanagement.noaa.gov/news/czmnewsletter.html> features articles about benthic mapping in New York and Connecticut, climate change workshops in New Hampshire, and more.



The Sandbar - The April 2011 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 public beach easements, environmental lawsuits in Michigan, and other ocean- and coastal-related legal issues.



Sound Waves - The March 2011 issue of Sound Waves<http://soundwaves.usgs.gov/>, the monthly newsletter from U.S. Geological Survey, features articles on the Japan earthquake, slow-growing corals in the Gulf of Mexico, and other coastal and marine research news.



Marine Ecosystems and Management Information Service - The April/May 2011 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 integrated management, EBM progress after 30 years, and other notes and news.



Websites

Now available from MassGIS: Tidelands Jurisdiction (Chapter 91) Layers from the MassDEP Waterways Program - Tidelands Jurisdiction data are a set of nine related feature classes which, in combination, represent the presumed tidelands jurisdiction of MassDEP under M.G.L. c. 91 and the Waterways regulations in 310 CMR 9.00. Documenting the extent of tidelands jurisdiction is important because of the public's rights in tidelands, and their associated regulatory and legal implications. CZM coordinated the tidelands jurisdiction mapping project with and for use by MassDEP, pursuant to Chapter 91 and the Waterways Regulations (310 CMR 9.00). The project used a comprehensive methodology to map the landward extent of Chapter 91 jurisdiction, whether based on historic or contemporary high water lines. For full details and a link to the free data download area, see the Massachusetts Office of Geographic Information (MassGIS) website<http://www.mass.gov/mgis/tidelands.htm>.



NOAA Photo Library on Flickr - The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has launched NOAA Photo Library's Photostream<http://www.flickr.com/photos/noaaphotolib> on Flickr, the popular photo-sharing website. Users can search and download NOAA images from a selection of more than 4,000 of the 47,000 public domain images found in the NOAA Photo Library<http://www.photolib.noaa.gov/>.



Council on Environmental Quality on Facebook - The White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) has launched a Facebook page<http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/pages/White-House-Council-on-Environmental-Quality/197889273569988>, which features up-to-date information on CEQ's programs and initiatives, as well as images, posts, and interactive events.



Public Comment

No Discharge Area - EPA is seeking comments on a Massachusetts request to designate coastal waters as vessel No Discharge Area. The proposed Outer Cape Cod NDA would cover state waters of Chatham, Orleans, Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, and Provincetown. Within NDAs, the dumping of all boat sewage, both treated and untreated, is prohibited. For details about each NDA request, including commenting instructions, see the Federal Register Notice<http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2011/2011-10347.htm>. Comments are due by May 31.



Parker River and Thacher Island Plan and Assessment - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking comments on a proposed comprehensive conservation plan and environmental assessment for Parker River and Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuges. For more information, see the Federal Register Notice<http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2011/2011-9541.htm>. Submit comments by May 20 to northeastplanning at fws.gov<mailto:northeastplanning at fws.gov>. Include "Parker River CCP" in the subject line of the message.



Stormwater Discharges from Construction Sites - EPA is seeking public comments on a draft National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Activities<http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/cgp.cfm>. The new rules will help improve U.S. waterways by regulating the discharge of stormwater from construction sites, which can contain sediment and pollutants that harm aquatic ecosystems, increase drinking water treatment costs, and pollute waters that people use for fishing, swimming, and other recreational activities. The proposed Construction General Permit (CGP) includes a number of enhanced protections, including provisions to protect impaired and sensitive waters. The permit will be effective in areas where EPA is the permitting authority, including Massachusetts. Comments are due by June 24.



Proposed Standards for Cooling Water Intake Structures - EPA is seeking public comments on its proposed standards for all existing power plants and factories<http://water.epa.gov/lawsregs/lawsguidance/cwa/316b/> to protect billions of fish and other aquatic organisms drawn each year into cooling water systems. The proposal would establish a common-sense framework, putting a premium on public input and flexibility. Safeguards against such impingement of organisms will be required for all facilities above a minimum size, and closed-cycle cooling systems may also be required on a case-by-case basis. Comments are due by July 19.



Healthy Watersheds - EPA is seeking public comments on the draft document Identifying and Protecting Healthy Watersheds: Concepts, Assessments, and Management Approaches<http://water.epa.gov/polwaste/nps/watershed/hw_techdocument.cfm>, which provides the basis for implementing the EPA's Healthy Watersheds Initiative. The draft technical document includes an overview of the key concepts behind the Healthy Watersheds approach, examples of assessments of healthy watershed components, an integrated assessment framework for identifying healthy watersheds, examples of management approaches, sources of national data, and key assessment tools. Submit comments by June 3 to hwcomments-hq at epa.gov<mailto:hwcomments-hq at epa.gov>.



Reminder - The following comment opportunities posted in the last CZ-Mail are still open:

·         Recreational Boating Permit - EPA is seeking comments from boaters to help develop proposed regulations to reduce water pollution and the spread of invasive species in the nation's rivers, lakes, and other water bodies. The 2008 Clean Boating Act directs EPA to develop and promulgate management practices for recreational vessels as an alternative to permits required for commercial vessels. Input received through this process will help guide the development of proposed regulations to mitigate adverse effects from recreational boat discharges, such as bilgewater, graywater, and deck runoff, which may contain substances harmful to water quality or may spread invasive species. For more information, see the EPA website<http://water.epa.gov/lawsregs/lawsguidance/cwa/vessel/CBA/about.cfm>.

·         NEPA Pilot Project Proposals - The Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is seeking nominations for innovative pilot projects that accomplish the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) goals of transparency and informed decision making in a more timely and effective manner. For details and to submit a nomination, see the CEQ website<http://whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/ceq/initiatives/nepa/nepa-pilot-project>. Submissions are due by June 15.



Job Postings

Program Administrator - The Massachusetts Ocean Partnership is seeking applications for a Program Administrator<http://massoceanpartnership.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/job-anncmnt-prog-admin-2011.pdf> (PDF, 276 KB) to perform essential functions in four main areas: 1) program administration/business management, 2) fund development support, 3) executive assistance, and 4) office management. The application deadline is May 4.



GIS Technician - The Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is seeking candidates for a GIS Technician/Researcher contract position<https://jobs.hrd.state.ma.us/recruit/public/3111/job/job_view.do?postingId=J25342> to provide technical and field assistance for the Reserve's research and stewardship staff. Applications are due by May 10.

Calendar

StormSmart Coasts Workshop - On May 5 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., CZM, the Cape Cod Cooperative Extension (CCCE), and Woods Hole Sea Grant will hold a Coastal Floodplains-Mapping and Management<http://www.mass.gov/czm/docs/pdf/ssc_workshop_511.pdf> (PDF, 358 KB), a workshop for conservation commissions, planning boards, and zoning boards on mapping and management of coastal floodplains. Current and future flood zones and resource areas will be discussed with options to improve local efforts to reduce storm impacts. Presenters include staff from CZM, the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Sea Grant, CCCE, and The Horsley Witten Group. The workshop will be held on the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution's<http://www.whoi.edu/page.do?pid=8956> Quissett Campus in Room 507 of the Clark Laboratory. To register for this free workshop, call (508) 375-6690 or email kalliope at barnstablecounty.org<mailto:kalliope at barnstablecounty.org>.



BUAR Public Meeting - On May 26 at 1:30 p.m., CZM's Board of Underwater Archaeological Resources<http://www.mass.gov/czm/buar> (BUAR) will hold its bimonthly public meeting at CZM's Boston Office<http://www.mass.gov/czm/bh.htm> 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>.



Wetlands and Rivers Month Calendar - May is Wetlands Month and June is Rivers Month. This online calendar<http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/der/newsletters/rivrwetmonth_calendar2011.htm>, prepared by the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration, lists related events in, on, and along the rivers and wetlands of Massachusetts. These events extend through July 4.



Spring Walks in Harwich - The Harwich Conservation Trust has posted its schedule of spring walks. All walks are free and open to the public. See the Trust's website<http://www.harwichconservationtrust.org/spring_walks_2011.htm>.



Cape Friendly Landscaping - On May 3 at 7:00 p.m., the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (WBNERR) will host a lecture on Cape Friendly Landscaping<http://www.waquoitbayreserve.org/eventshow.aspx?eventid=283> at the reserve visitor center in Falmouth. Topics will include ecological landscaping tips, Falmouth-friendly lawn care tips, composting, and native plants.



The Natural and Cultural Evolution of Cape Cod - On Wednesday's from May 4-18, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present The Natural and Cultural Evolution of Cape Cod<http://www.ccmnh.org/index.php?module=PostCalendar&func=view&Date=20110504&tplview=default&viewtype=details&eid=997&print=>, four lectures by prominent Cape Codders.



Sea Turtles in Massachusetts Waters - On May 10 at 1:30 p.m., the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present the lecture Sea Turtles in Massachusetts Waters by Bob Prescott, Director of the Massachusetts Audubon Society's Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. He will talk about and show images of sea turtles in Massachusetts waters with an emphasis on sea turtles around the Cape and the annual cold stunning episodes. For more information, contact Gayle Kenerson at gck1 at comcast.net<mailto:gck1 at comcast.net>.



Cape Cod Maritime History Symposium - On May 14, the 15th annual Cape Cod Maritime History Symposium<http://www.ccmnh.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=353> will be held at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History. The annual gathering will explore and commemorate maritime heritage through four illustrated presentations by experienced professionals and historians.



Outer Continental Shelf Scientific Committee Meeting - From May 17-19, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement's Outer Continental Shelf Scientific Committee will hold a three-day meeting<http://www.boemre.gov/ooc/press/2011/press0426.htm> at the Holiday Inn Cape Cod in Hyannis. The first day will be a plenary session to discuss alternative energy, the National Ocean Policy, Atlantic Governance Councils, and the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. The following two days will features breakout sessions and a second plenary on the results of the breakout sessions. The meetings are open to the public.



Ultra-Urban Stormwater Design and Retrofitting Webinar - On May 18, the Center for Watershed Protection will hold Ultra-Urban Stormwater Design and Retrofitting<http://www.cwp.org/our-work/training/webcasts.html#Next%20Webcast>, a webinar which will explore the unique stormwater design approach for applying stormwater management criteria on urban lands and profile innovative stormwater practices adapted to the ultra-urban setting. Case studies will explore the lessons learned from implementing green infrastructure in these densely developed areas. In addition, this webinar will cover the basics of setting an appropriate mitigation or offset fee for sites where full compliance is not possible.



Cape Cod National Seashore Advisory Commission Meeting - The Cape Cod National Seashore<http://www.nps.gov/caco/index.htm> Advisory Commission will meet at 1:00 p.m. on May 23 in the meeting room 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.



Environmental Business Council Annual Meeting and Awards - On June 8, the Environmental Business Council of New England (EBC) will hold the 21st Annual Meeting and Awards Celebration<http://www.ebcne.org/index.php?id=77&no_cache=1&tx_ciceventscalendar_pi1%5bcaldatets%5d=1306900800&tx_ciceventscalendar_pi1%5bdaylistts%5d=1307505600&tx_ciceventscalendar_pi1%5bsinuid%5d=693&cHash=66b9688554aa5cd537a492a8076b847d> in Boston. Each year, EBC recognizes companies, organizations, and individuals for outstanding environmental/energy accomplishments in the promotion of a sustainable, clean environment through this awards celebration.



Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry Meeting - From June 8-10, the 17th Annual Meeting and Short Course<http://www.nacsetac.org/Annual_meeting.htm> of the North Atlantic Chapter of the Society for Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry will be held in Freeport, Maine.



Solutions to Coastal Disasters - From June 25-29, the 2011 Solutions to Coastal Disasters Conference<http://content.asce.org/conferences/cd2011/> will be held in Anchorage, Alaska. The four-day conference will feature short courses, plenary and technical sessions, exhibits, posters, and field trips. Conference topics will focus on the science, tools, management challenges, and solutions to a range of coastal hazards including: coastal erosion, hurricanes, coastal storms, seismic events and tsunamis, climate change, sea level change, and wind.



Fish Passage Conference - From June 27-29, the National Conference on Engineering & Ecohydrology for Fish Passage<http://www.umass.edu/tei/conferences/FishPassage> will be held at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Fish Passage 2011 is a national forum for researchers and practitioners to exchange findings and experiences on fish passage issues. This is a three-day conference with concurrent sessions in engineering, biology, management, and social issues.



National Marine Educators Conference - From June 29-July 3, the 2011 National Marine Educators Conference<http://www.massmarineeducators.org/NMEA2011/>, Cape to Cape in the Hub of Marine Education, will be held at Northeastern University in Boston. Join more than 400 educators, advocates, researchers, and enthusiasts for this conference that is dedicated to the teaching and discovery of oceans, marine life, estuaries, and coasts. The focus of the 2011 conference is the world of water.



Coastal Zone 2011 - From July 17-21, Coastal Zone 2011<http://www.doi.gov/initiatives/CZ11/index.htm>, Winds of Change: Great Lakes, Great Oceans, Great Communities!, will be held in Chicago, Illinois. The 2011 conference has four major themes: planning for resilient coasts; healthy habitats; observing, modeling and monitoring; and vibrant coastal and marine economies. This biennial conference brings together nearly 1,000 attendees from federal, state, and local governments, academia, nonprofit organizations, and private industry.



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

·         New England Estuarine Research Society - From May 5-7, the New England Estuarine Research Society (NEERS) will hold its Spring 2011 Meeting<http://www.neers.org/main/meetings/meetingindex.htm> in Port Jefferson, New York. Oral and poster presentations are welcome on any subject related to estuaries and coastal environments.

·         National Map Conference and USGS GIS Workshop - From May 10-13, The National Map Users Conference and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Geographic Information Science (GIS) Workshop<http://nationalmap.gov/uc/> will be held in Lakewood, Colorado. The goal of the interactive workshop and conference is to enhance communications among The National Map users, federal GIS specialists and scientists, and data providers. Topics will include existing applications and visions for future scientific and modeling applications using The National Map, opportunities for partnerships, and advances in geospatial technologies.

·         Hazards Vulnerability Webinar - On May 11, NOAA's Coastal Services Center will host a training webinar on the Road Map for Adapting to Coastal Risk<http://www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/training/coastalrisk.html>, a participatory process for assessing a community's vulnerability to hazards and for incorporating relevant data and information about hazards and climate into ongoing local planning and decision-making.

·         National Coastal Conference-Call for Abstracts - From October 19-21, the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association (ASBPA) will hold its National Coastal Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana. The theme of the 2011 conference is Expanding Coastal Horizons, recognizing that coastal issues extend beyond the narrow strip where waves wash ashore. See the Call for Abstracts<http://www.asbpa.org/conferences/2011Callwlogo.pdf> (PDF, 550 KB), which are due by May 13.

·         Estuarine and Coastal Modeling Conference-Call for Abstracts - >From November 7-9, the 12th International Conference on Estuarine and Coastal Modeling<http://www.oce.uri.edu/ecm12>, Using Modeling to Solve Engineering and Environmental Assessment Problems, will be held in St. Augustine, Florida. Abstracts<http://www.oce.uri.edu/ecm12/call_for_papers.html> are due by May 15.

·         Mystic River Herring Run and Paddle - From May 15, the Mystic River Watershed Association will hold the 2011 Mystic River Herring Run and Paddle<http://mysticriver.org/herring-run/>. The day's events include a 5K run/walk race, three paddling races (3, 9, and 12 miles), educational booths, children's activities, and more.

·         Flood Conference - From May 15-20, the Association of State Floodplain Managers will hold the 35th annual Premier Flood Conference<http://www.floods.org/index.asp?menuid=663&firstlevelmenuid=181&siteid=1>, Flood Risk Management: The Winning Ticket, in Louisville, Kentucky. Join 200 industry experts who will conduct plenary and concurrent sessions and share the state-of-the-art in techniques, programs, and resources to accomplish flood mitigation, watershed management, and other community goals.

·         Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference - From May 17-18, the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (NEIWPCC) will hold the 22nd annual Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference<http://www.neiwpcc.org/npsconference/> in Saratoga Springs, New York. The three-day event brings together those in New England and New York state involved in nonpoint source pollution management, including participants from government and private sector, academia, and watershed organizations.

·         River Monitoring and Climate Change Conference - From May 18-19, the Massachusetts Rivers Alliance will hold a River Monitoring and Climate Change Conference<http://massriversalliance.org/issues/climate-change/> in Leominster. The conference will focus on how citizen-based monitoring can help people understand and address the impacts of climate change on the Commonwealth's rivers.

·         Flood Management Conference-Call for Abstracts - From September 6-9, the Flood Management Association with hold its 2011 Annual Conference, Flood Risk Management in the 21st Century, in San Diego, California. Join floodplain management experts and policy makers to address the changing federal stormwater and environmental standards. Abstracts<http://www.cvent.com/events/2011-fma-annual-conference/custom-19-a10e2d8c0c164acf93695b52973c05ce.aspx> are due by May 27.

·         Metadata Workshop - From June 8-9, the Northeast Coastal and Ocean Data Partnership will hold its Annual Meeting and Metadata Workshop<http://www.necodp.org/workshops/metadata-workshop/annual-meeting-and-workshop-june-8th-and-9th> in Rye, New Hampshire. For details see the Draft Agenda<http://www.necodp.org/workshops/metadata-workshop/2011_AnnualMeeting_Workshop_Agenda_Draft.pdf/view>.

·         Summer Science School - In July and August, the Citizens for the Protection of Waquoit Bay sponsors a Summer Science School<http://www.waquoitbayreserve.org/summer_science.shtml> for students entering grades 2-9. Each session is one week and children are permitted to attend one session.



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.)

·         State targets boating discharge (Cape Cod Times, 4/25/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110425/NEWS/104250308

·         Patrick-Murray Administration nominates outer Cape waters for No Discharge Area designation (EEA Press Release, 4/20/11) -
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=110420-pr-no-discharge&csid=Eoeea

·         Salisbury gets $40K stormwater grant (Daily News of Newburyport, 4/11/11) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x300778426/Salisbury-gets-40K-stormwater-grant

·         State grant will help divert storm water (Daily News of Newburyport, 4/5/11) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x598328907/State-grant-will-help-divert-storm-water

·         'Fighting a losing battle with the sea' (Boston Globe, 4/3/11) -
http://articles.boston.com/2011-04-03/news/29377648_1_sea-level-rise-sea-walls-higher-seas



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.)

·         Whale sightings alarm Cape Wind foe (Cape Cod Times, 4/28/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110428/NEWS/104280312

·         Scientists ask beachgoers to give resting seals their space (Boston Globe, 4/28/11) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2011/04/28/as_more_seals_come_to_north_shore_experts_warn_look_dont_touch/

·         A little fish in need of big help: State biologists seek to explain declining rainbow smelt runs amid work to save natal streams (Boston Globe, 4/28/11) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2011/04/28/massachusetts_biologists_study_declining_rainbow_smelt_runs_in_coastal_rivers/

·         Sewage plant disks expected on Cape through summer (Cape Cod Times, 4/27/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110427/NEWS/104270322/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         NOAA celebrates Recovery Act project restoring salt marsh and fish passage on Cape Cod (NOAA News, 4/25/11) -
http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2011/20110425_stonybrook.html

·         MVC objects to wind plan (Vineyard Gazette, 4/22/11) -
http://www.mvgazette.com/article.php?29704

·         Sewage disks are just the latest form of Merrimack River pollution (Daily News of Newburyport, 4/22/11) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x1812410587/Sewage-disks-are-just-the-latest-form-of-Merrimack-River-pollution

·         Endangered whales gathering off Cape Cod in record numbers (Boston Globe, 4/21/11) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2011/04/21/endangered_whales_gathering_off_cape_cod_in_record_numbers/

·         Treatment plant project receives 'green' award (Daily News of Newburyport, 4/21/11) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x1812409447/Treatment-plant-project-receives-green-award

·         State officials continue to caution boaters about the presence of endangered right whales in Massachusetts coastal waters (EEA Press Release, 4/21/11) -
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=110420-pr-right-whales&csid=Eoeea

·         Ring around the hurricanes: Satellites can predict storm intensity (Science Daily, 4/21/11) -
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/04/110420152102.htm

·         US gives green light to Cape Wind project (Boston Globe, 4/20/11) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2011/04/20/us_gives_green_light_to_cape_wind_project/

·         Cape Wind clears final federal hurdle (Cape Cod Times, 4/20/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110420/NEWS/104200322/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         State wants ocean wind zone pared (Standard-Times, 4/20/11) - http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110420/NEWS/104200339

·         Construction to start this summer on staging facility for Cape Wind (Standard-Times, 4/20/11) - http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110420/NEWS/104200338/-1/NEWS

·         Officials: Cape Wind facility set to break ground (Cape Cod Times, 4/20/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110420/NEWS/104200320/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Cape Wind gets final OK; work on turbines could begin in fall (Patriot Ledger, 4/20/11) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/topstories/x1508087079/Cape-Wind-gets-final-OK-work-on-turbines-could-begin-in-fall

·         Patrick-Murray Administration proposes changes to area under consideration for offshore wind energy development (EEA Press Release, 4/19/11) -
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=110419-pr-changes-to-offshore-wind-area&csid=Eoeea

·         Town to try again to sell PI property (Daily News of Newburyport, 4/19/11) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x69803682/Town-to-try-again-to-sell-PI-property

·         Quincy pair sue over Neponset Landing (Patriot Ledger, 4/19/11) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/topstories/x897927795/Quincy-pair-sue-over-Neponset-Landing

·         State officials caution boaters about the presence of endangered right whales in Massachusetts coastal waters (EEA Press Release, 4/19/11) -
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=110419-pr-right-whales&csid=Eoeea

·         Thank loggers for New England wetlands (Discovery News, 4/19/11) -
http://news.discovery.com/earth/thank-loggers-for-new-england-wetlands-110419.html

·         County review planned for multibillion-dollar sewer projects (Cape Cod Times, 4/18/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110418/NEWS/104180310/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Waterfront shaping up: As first phase of project nearly complete, Beverly to get $1.4M more (Salem News, 4/18/11) -
http://www.salemnews.com/local/x1540199484/Waterfront-shaping-up

·         More than 3,500 people gather for 12th Annual Charles River Cleanup (Somerville Journal, 4/18/11) -
http://www.wickedlocal.com/somerville/news/x1798436443/More-than-3-500-people-gather-for-12th-Annual-Charles-River-Cleanup#axzz1K68TB8At

·         Beachgoers to face prospect of a summer without Wasque (Vineyard Gazette, 4/15/11) -
http://www.mvgazette.com/article.php?29625

·         Mass. residents differ on threat from manmade climate change (Boston Globe - The Green Blog, 4/14/11) -
http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/green/greenblog/2011/04/mass_residents_differ_on_threa.html

·         SJC upholds state's right to regulate water intake at Pilgrim nuclear (Boston Globe - The Green Blog, 4/11/11) -
http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/green/greenblog/2011/04/sjc_upholds_states_right_to_re.html

·         Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station suffers court loss (Cape Cod Times, 4/12/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110412/NEWS/104120323/-1/NEWS01

·         Tierney adds push for EPA change (Gloucester Times, 4/11/11) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/local/x2036001755/Tierney-adds-push-for-EPA-change

·         Salem pier work under way (Salem News, 4/11/11) -
http://www.salemnews.com/local/x300778348/Salem-pier-work-under-way

·         Shipping noise pulps organs of squid and octopuses (New Scientist, 4/11/11) -
http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn20364-shipping-noise-pulps-ears-of-squid-and-octopuses.html

·         North Shore saltwater estuary latest stop for disks (Daily News of Newburyport, 4/9/11) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x300777123/North-Shore-saltwater-estuary-latest-stop-for-disks

·         Scientists predict moderate N.E. red tide (Boston Globe, 4/9/11) -
http://www.boston.com/news/science/articles/2011/04/09/scientists_predict_moderate_ne_red_tide/

·         Potential projects off islands could dwarf Cape Wind (Cape Cod Times, 4/8/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110408/NEWS/104080333/-1/NEWS01

·         Waterfront 'jewel' to sparkle again: $1.98 million grant awarded to restore Port's boardwalk (Daily News of Newburyport, 4/8/11) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x930494438/Waterfront-jewel-to-sparkle-again

·         State earmarks money for two waterfronts (Salem News, 4/8/11) -
http://www.salemnews.com/local/x1075332528/State-earmarks-money-for-two-waterfronts

·         Harborfront pier plan paused, homeowner offers to scale back (Vineyard Gazette, 4/8/11) -
http://www.mvgazette.com/article.php?29510

·         Forecasters expect 5 big hurricanes (Boston Globe, 4/7/11) -
http://www.boston.com/news/science/articles/2011/04/07/forecasters_expect_5_big_hurricanes/

·         Legislators push to keep shellfish facility open (Boston Globe, 4/7/11) -
http://www.boston.com/yourtown/salem/articles/2011/04/07/legislators_offer_plan_to_keep_newburyport_shellfish_plant_open/

·         $2M expected today to preserve Port waterfront (Daily News of Newburyport, 4/7/11) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x300774718/-2M-expected-today-to-preserve-Port-waterfront

·         South Shore officials testify on Beacon Hill, seek money for sea wall repairs (Patriot Ledger, 4/6/11) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/features/x532922602/South-Shore-officials-testify-on-Beacon-Hill-seek-money-for-sea-wall-repairs

·         Lawmakers mull new rules for personal watercraft (Cape Cod Times, 4/6/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110406/NEWS/104060326/-1/NEWS01

·         City getting added $700k for Harborwalk (Gloucester Times, 4/6/11) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/local/x598331633/City-getting-added-700k-for-Harborwalk

·         Marshfield lawmaker pushes all options for sea-wall funding (Patriot Ledger, 4/5/11) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/topstories/x1700898162/Marshfield-lawmaker-pushes-all-options-for-sea-wall-funding

·         Cape wastewater 'disk-charge' cleanup begins (Cape Cod Times, 4/5/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110405/NEWS/104050315/-1/NEWS01

·         Lawmakers turn eye to state's battered sea walls (Boston Globe, 4/4/11) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2011/04/04/lawmakers_turn_eye_to_states_battered_sea_walls/

·         How sea walls erode a beach (Boston Globe, 4/3/11) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/graphics/030411_seawall_explainer/

·         Coastal residents shore up vs. nature (Boston Globe, 4/3/11) -
http://articles.boston.com/2011-04-03/news/29377608_1_hoovers-tiny-house-hot-water

·         Perilous wave of the future: As sea walls along the coast disintegrate, towns have little cash to help turn the tide (Boston Globe, 4/3/11) -
http://articles.boston.com/2011-04-03/news/29377772_1_sea-walls-marshfield-repair-or-rehabilitation

·         Despite frequent floods, no plan yet for Winthrop (Boston Globe, 4/3/11) -
http://articles.boston.com/2011-04-03/news/29377642_1_sea-walls-sand-and-gravel-sand-dunes

·         To ward off a deluge, a trickle of cash: In spite of a dire '09 warning, little movement to fix sea walls (Boston Globe, 4/3/11) -
http://articles.boston.com/2011-04-03/news/29377845_1_sea-walls-repairs-wendy-fox

·         Lawmakers hope to save clam plant (Daily News of Newburyport, 4/1/11) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x598325270/Lawmakers-hope-to-save-clam-plant

·         Focus on the Waterfront (Boston Globe, April 2011) -
http://www.boston.com/yourtown/boston/southboston/gallery/030411_southie_waterfront/?p1=News_links



Other Items of Interest

May Is American Wetlands Month - EPA will celebrate the 21st American Wetlands Month in May. This annual celebration recognizes and highlights the benefits that wetlands provide to the natural environment. For more information, see EPA's Wetlands Month web page<http://water.epa.gov/type/wetlands/outreach/index.cfm>.



Coastal Ocean Science Academy - The Northeastern University Marine Science Center in Nahant is accepting applications for the 2011 Coastal Ocean Science Academy<http://www.northeastern.edu/marinescience/outreach/summer.html>, a two-week summer experience that is open to students entering grades 9-12. Participants experience firsthand diverse New England coastal habitats and marine resources, engaging in hands-on research and inquiry activities.



Wild Arts and Ecology 2011 - From June 27-August 19, Mass Audubon's Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary in Barnstable will hold Wild Arts and Ecology-week-long summer sessions for kids ages 6-12. Children will explore field science, observing, questioning, experimenting, and using real scientific tools. For more information, contact the sanctuary at (508) 362-7475.



Stellwagen Advisory Council - The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary<http://stellwagen.noaa.gov/> is seeking applicants for one seat 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 June 10.



Rachel Carson Contest - EPA is calling for submissions to the fifth annual Rachel Carson Intergenerational Sense of Wonder Contest<http://www.epa.gov/aging/resources/thesenseofwonder/index.htm>. Carson is considered to be the founder of the contemporary environmental movement through her landmark book, Silent Spring. Entries will be accepted in five categories-poetry, essay, dance, photography, and mixed media. Submissions are due by June 16.







Commonwealth of Massachusetts - Deval L. Patrick, Governor

Timothy P. Murray, Lieutenant Governor

Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs - Richard K. Sullivan Jr., Secretary

Office of Coastal Zone Management - Bruce K. Carlisle, Acting Director

Editor - Robin Lacey<mailto:robin.lacey at state.ma.us?subject=May%202011%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. NA10NOS4190183.

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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