[SEMCO] March 2011 CZ-Mail

[Cz-Mail, (ENV)]

CZ-MAIL

March 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=March%202011%20CZ-Mail>.



CZM Launches New and Improved MORIS Mapping Tool

CZM is pleased to announce the release of a new and improved Massachusetts Ocean Resource Information System<http://www.mass.gov/czm/mapping/index.htm>, or MORIS. This web-based coastal mapping tool can be used to search, display, and query spatial data pertaining to the Massachusetts coastal zone. Building on the success of the previous version of MORIS, this new version offers enhanced speed, the capability to display Google and OpenStreetMap base maps, new search functions, and a modern look and feel. Users can interactively view various data layers (e.g., tide gauge stations, marine protected areas, public access points, eelgrass beds, etc.) over a backdrop of aerial photographs, political boundaries, natural resources, human uses, bathymetry, or other data. Users can quickly create and share maps and download the data for use in a Geographic Information System (GIS). This new and improved MORIS was created by CZM, the Massachusetts Office of Geographic Information<http://www.mass.gov/mgis/massgis.htm>, the Massachusetts Ocean Partnership<http://massoceanpartnership.org/> (MOP), Applied Science Associates<http://www.asascience.com/>, and Charlton Galvarino<http://2creek.com/>. For more details about the new MORIS, see the EEA press release<http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=110214-pr-mapping-tools&csid=Eoeea>. For questions or comments, please contact CZM's GIS/Data Manager Dan Sampson at daniel.sampson at state.ma.us<mailto:daniel.sampson at state.ma.us?subject=New%20MORIS>.



State of Bays Report

The Massachusetts Bays Program<http://www.mass.gov/envir/massbays/default.htm> (MBP) has released the December 2010 State of the Bays<http://www.mass.gov/envir/massbays/bays.htm>, a report that summarizes the status of 17 indicators of the health of Massachusetts and Cape Cod Bays under the categories of Water Quality, Living Resources, and Human Uses. State of the Bays includes sections on changes in the water chemistry of Boston Harbor due to improved wastewater management, causes of harmful algal blooms, trends in eelgrass beds throughout Massachusetts Bay, and acreage of land under permanent protection, to name just a few. This report serves as an update of the first State of the Bays publication, released in 2004, and represents the contributions of more than 25 experts in the field of coastal environmental management. Check out the 2010 report on the MBP website<http://www.mass.gov/envir/massbays/bays.htm> or request a hard copy from MBP Director, Jay Baker, at jason.baker at state.ma.us<mailto:jason.baker at state.ma.us?subject=State%20of%20the%20Bays%202010>.



Commercial Leasing for Wind Power on the Outer Continental Shelf Offshore of Massachusetts-Submission Deadline to Be Extended

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation, and Enforcement (BOEMRE) will be extending the deadline for submissions and input on commercial leasing for the construction of wind energy projects on the outer continental shelf (OCS) offshore of Massachusetts. BOEMRE will use the responses to the Request for Interest (RFI) to gauge specific interest in commercial development of OCS wind resources in the area. BOEMRE has invited all interested and affected parties to comment and provide information-including information on environmental issues and data-that will be useful in the consideration of the RFI area for commercial wind energy leases. As of time of publication, the new due date for responses has not yet been announced. Stay tuned to the BOEMRE website<http://www.boemre.gov/offshore/RenewableEnergy/StateActivities.htm#Massachusetts> for more information and updates.



CZ-Tip - Just Because It's Too Cold to Swim, Doesn't Mean You Can't Enjoy the Coast!

>From fluffy flurries to "thunder snow," the winter of 2011 has already brought a seemingly endless spate of snowstorms. But there is an upside... the white blankets that cover hills, dales, cars, and the shoreline can make for some stunningly picturesque shoreline views. For more on winter activities with a coastal theme, both indoors and out, see CZ-Tip: Cures for Cabin Fever - Coastal Edition<http://www.mass.gov/czm/tips/winter.htm>.



Grants/Funding/Proposal Opportunities

§319 Grants Pre-RFR Meeting - On March 10 from 10:00 a.m.-noon, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) will hold a meeting to field questions and discuss the upcoming Request for Responses (RFR) for the §319 Nonpoint Source Pollution Competitive Grants Program. There are important changes to the eligibility criteria for this grant round, so potential applicants are strongly encouraged to attend this pre-RFR session to be held at the MassDEP offices in Worcester<http://mass.gov/dep/about/region/centralr.htm>. Additional information is available on the Comm-PASS website<https://www.ebidsourcing.com/displayPublicSearchAdvancedSolCriteriaEdit.do?doValidateToken=false&menu_id=2.3.3&org.apache.struts.taglib.html.TOKEN=3eef8c0bb7160917ee3ff0959e298389>. Search for the keyword "319." For more information, contact MassDEP's §319 coordinator, Jane Peirce, at jane.peirce at state.ma.us<mailto:jane.peirce at state.ma.us>. For details about past §319 projects, see MassDEP's website<http://www.mass.gov/dep/water/grants.htm#sums>.



Funding to Provide Technical Assistance - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Office of Sustainable Communities is seeking proposals to create and deliver technical assistance programs to local governments that face common land use and development challenges. The program will award up to $500,000 for one to three organizations to provide technical assistance to multiple communities on the use of standardized, "ready to go" tools that can lead to changes in local policies and development regulations. For details see the EPA website<http://epa.gov/smartgrowth/grants/index.htm#rfgpa>. Applications are due by March 31.



Nature Conservancy Restoration Grants - The Nature Conservancy (TNC), in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Community-Based Restoration Program, is seeking proposals for projects at TNC priority sites throughout the United States and its territories to restore or enhance estuarine, marine, and anadromous species and their habitats. For details, see the Request for Proposals<http://www.habitat.noaa.gov/pdf/RFP%20TNC-NOAA%20CRP%20Partnership%202011.pdf> (PDF, 312 KB). Proposals are due by April 1.



Marine Environmental History and Historical Ecology Grants - The Marine Conservation Biology Institute is seeking proposals for the 2011 Mia J. Tegner Memorial Research Grants Program in Marine Environmental History and Historical Marine Ecology<http://www.mcbi.org/what/tegner_app_2011.htm>. Initiated in 2001, this program provides grants up to $10,000 to support research that documents historical ocean conditions prior to large-scale human impacts. This program honors the late Dr. Mia J. Tegner, an esteemed marine biologist at Scripps Institution of Oceanography who conducted seminal work in the field of historical marine ecology. Applications are due by April 1.



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

·         Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Funding - CZM is seeking applications for funding under the Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program<http://www.mass.gov/czm/celcp/index.htm> (CELCP). CELCP provides state and local governments with matching funds to purchase significant coastal and estuarine lands (or conservation easements on such lands) that are considered important for their ecological, conservation, recreational, historical, or aesthetic values. Applications will be reviewed and ranked for possible nomination to NOAA for evaluation and potential Federal Fiscal Year 2012 CELCP funding. To view the RFR, visit the Comm-PASS website<https://www.ebidsourcing.com/displayPublicSearchAdvancedSolCriteriaEdit.do?doValidateToken=false&menu_id=2.3.3&org.apache.struts.taglib.html.TOKEN=3eef8c0bb7160917ee3ff0959e298389> and search for solicitation number "ENV 11CZM 04." Proposals are due by March 25.

·         Estuary Habitat Restoration Funding - The Estuary Habitat Restoration Council is seeking proposals for estuary habitat restoration projects<http://www.era.noaa.gov/information/funding.html>. These projects should achieve cost-effective restoration while promoting partnerships among agencies and between public and private sectors. Proposals selected for funding must provide ecosystem benefits, have scientific merit, and be technically feasible and cost-effective. Typical awards are expected to range between $100,000 and $1 million. Applications are due by March 10.

·         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's National Marine Fisheries Service Community-Based Restoration Program, the Gulf of Maine Council provides grants to further the goal of habitat restoration and to support a strategic approach to marine, coastal, and riverine habitat restoration. For details, see the Gulf of Maine Habitat Restoration web portal<http://restoration.gulfofmaine.org#2010RFP>. Full applications can be submitted online<http://www.gulfofmaine.org/grantapp/> until March 16.

·         Sounds Conservancy Grants - The Sounds Conservancy Grants Program<http://qlf.org/atlantic_program/Sounds/sounds.htm> is dedicated to supporting the conservation and restoration of the sounds of Long Island, Fishers Island, Block Island, Rhode Island, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket and their adjacent coastlines in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island. The program encourages and supports projects that lead to improved marine and coastal resource management with funding up to $2,500 available to university, college, and high school students, private individuals, and nonprofit organizations. Applications must be postmarked by March 15.

·         EPA CARE Grants - EPA is seeking proposals for the Community Action for a Renewed Environment<http://www.epa.gov/care> (CARE) program to support community-based partnerships to reduce toxic pollution at the local level. Eligible applicants include county and local governments, tribes, nonprofit organizations, and universities. Proposals are due by March 22.

·         BoatUS Grassroots Grants - The BoatUS Foundation is seeking applications for the 2011 Grassroots Grants<http://www.boatus.com/foundation/Grants/default.asp>. Up to $4,000 is available to local volunteer organizations for the promotion of safe and clean boating education. Applications are due by April 1.



Products/Publications

National Assessment of Shoreline Change - The U.S. Geological Survey has released The National Assessment of Shoreline Change: Historical Shoreline Change along the New England and Mid-Atlantic Coasts<http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2010/1118/>, a report that provides analysis and details on historical erosion rates for the U.S. coastline from Maine to Virginia. The report shows that the average rate of long-term shoreline change for this region was -0.5 meters per year. New England's rate was lower than the average, but the percentage of coastline eroding was higher.



Climate Change in the Gulf of Maine - The Gulf of Maine Council's EcoSystem Indicator Partnership<http://www2.gulfofmaine.org/esip/> (ESIP) has released Climate Change in the Gulf of Maine<http://www2.gulfofmaine.org/esip/ESIPFactClimateChangefinal.pdf> (PDF, 350 KB), a fact sheet summarizing data from around the Gulf of Maine for three key indicators-sea level, air temperature, and precipitation-to show how the climate in the region has been changing over recent decades.



Marine and Coastal Adaptation Report - EcoAdapt has released a report entitled The State of Marine and Coastal Adaptation in North America: A Synthesis of Emerging Ideas<http://www.cakex.org/virtual-library/1615>, which provides a brief overview of climate change impacts on the natural and built environments in marine and coastal North America and a review of adaptation options available to (and in use by) marine and coastal managers. This report presents the results of EcoAdapt's efforts to survey, inventory, and assess adaptation projects from different regions, jurisdictions, and scales throughout North America's marine and coastal environments. This survey effort is part of a broader project led by EcoAdapt, Island Press, and the Climate Change Knowledge Exchange<http://www.cakex.org> (CAKE)-an innovative community website that provides tools, data, a directory, and hundreds of examples of climate adaptation initiatives.



Ocean Fertilization Report - The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has released Scientific Summary for Policymakers on Ocean Fertilization<http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0019/001906/190674e.pdf> (PDF, 1.3 MB), a report that provides information on the practicalities, opportunities, and threats associated with large-scale ocean fertilization as a climate change mitigation measure.



Global Ocean Protection - The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) has released Global Ocean Protection: Present Status and Future Possibilities<http://data.iucn.org/dbtw-wpd/edocs/2010-053.pdf> (PDF, 2.9 MB), a report that discusses both the increases in the total ocean area protected, the uneven nature of this marine protected area coverage, and how not all ecoregions and habitats important for conservation are adequately represented.



Sustainable Marine Ecosystem Development - ICUN has released the report Sustainable Development of the World's Large Marine Ecosystems during Climate Change<http://data.iucn.org/dbtw-wpd/edocs/2010-079.pdf> (PDF, 5.9 MB), which describes actions underway in a global movement to restore and sustain the world's large marine ecosystems, given their multi-trillion dollar annual contribution to the world economy.



Science-to-Action Publications - The Science-to-Action<http://www.science2action.org/> partnership fosters networks of scientists and conservationists worldwide to ensure that high-quality science is the basis for conservation decision-making. Current documents published by the partnership include: Economic Incentives for Marine Conservation<http://www.science2action.org/files/s2a/economicincentivesguidebook.pdf> (PDF, 1.7 MB); Case Studies of Three Economic Incentive Approaches in Marine Conservation<http://www.science2action.org/files/s2a/economicincentivescasestudies.pdf> (PDF, 760 KB); and People and Oceans: Managing Marine Areas for Human Well-Being<http://www.science2action.org/component/content/article/139>. Also, see the Science-to-Action website<http://www.science2action.org/component/content/article/143> for additional publications.



Our Changing Oceans Proceedings - On January 19-21, the 11th U.S. National Conference for Science, Policy and the Environment, was held in Washington, DC. Participants developed recommendations to governments and academia on a wide range of themes. The draft recommendations, related articles, and video coverage of the conference are available on the conference website<http://ncseonline.org/conference/Oceans>.



Guide to Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment - The National Wildlife Federation has released Scanning the Conservation Horizon: A Guide to Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment<http://www.nwf.org/vulnerabilityguide> (PDF, 4.7 MB), which describes the impact of climate change on species and ecosystems and efforts to safeguard these valuable natural resources.



Coastal Resource Management Survey - NOAA's Coastal Services Center (CSC) has released the results of the Coastal Resource Management Customer Survey<http://www.csc.noaa.gov/survey>. CSC conducts the surveys periodically to better understand the issues facing its clients and the type of assistance that would be most beneficial.



Marine Ecosystems and Management Information Service - The February/March 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 the role of ocean zoning in marine spatial planning, implementing EMB in indigenous areas, and other notes and news.



Sound Waves - The January/February 2011 issue of Sound Waves<http://soundwaves.usgs.gov/>, the monthly newsletter from U.S. Geological Survey, features articles on Arctic sea ice and polar bear habitat, coastal wetlands, and other coastal and marine research news.



Websites

Sea Level Rise Impacts Viewer - NOAA's Coastal Services Center has released the Sea Level Rise Impacts Viewer<http://csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/slrviewer>, a new tool for visualizing sea level rise and coastal flooding. The initial project areas include the coasts of Houston and Galveston, Texas, and the Mississippi coast, with additional coastal counties to be added in the near future.



Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion - NOAA has launched an Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion website<http://coastalmanagement.noaa.gov/programs/otec.html> to provide legal and licensing information for industries interested in developing Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) capability in the United States. OTEC produces renewable energy by using temperature differences between deep cold water and warm surface water to power a turbine.



WaterLife - NOAA and Montgomery College has developed WaterLife<http://games.noaa.gov/waterlife.html>, a series of educational games about ocean and coastal resources, which provide challenges for students in grades 4-7 to learn about human impacts on ecosystems and marine species.



Public Comment

Draft National Aquaculture Policies - The Department of Commerce and NOAA are seeking public comments on complementary draft national aquaculture policies that support sustainable marine aquaculture to increase the supply of healthy seafood, create jobs in coastal and other communities, spur innovation in technology, and help restore depleted species and marine habitats. For details, see NOAA's Aquaculture Program website<http://aquaculture.noaa.gov/>. Comments are due by April 11.



Corp of Engineers Nationwide Permits - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is soliciting comments for several nationwide permits that affect commercial shellfish aquaculture and other activities. For details, see the Federal Register Notice<http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2011/2011-3371.htm>. Comments are due by April 18.



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

·         Strategic Action Plans for National Ocean Policy - On July 19, 2010, President Obama signed Executive Order 13547 establishing a National Policy for the Stewardship of the Ocean, our Coasts, and the Great Lakes. The Executive Order creates an interagency National Ocean Council<http://www.WhiteHouse.gov/oceans> (NOC) to strengthen ocean governance and coordination and identifies nine priority actions for the NOC to pursue. The NOC will prepare strategic action plans for the nine priority objectives and is seeking input on the development of these plans. For more information, see the NOC website<http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/oceans/comment>. Comments are due by April 29.



Job Postings

Ocean Explorium Educator - The Ocean Explorium at New Bedford Seaport is seeking applications for a part-time educator/intern to work with the Explorium's public and school programming. For details, see the Ocean Explorium website<http://oceanexplorium.org/pages/Employment.html>.



Calendar

BUAR Public Meeting - On March 31 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. The preliminary agenda includes discussion/approval of minutes for the December 2, 2010 meeting; renewal of five permits; discussion/approval of one new reconnaissance permit (Gloucester); and discussion of permittee, outreach, and research activities. For more information, contact BUAR Director, Victor Mastone, at victor.mastone at state.ma.us<mailto:victor.mastone at state.ma.us?subject=BUAR%20Public%20Meeting>.



Wednesday Walks - On Wednesdays in March, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History (CCMNH) will hold a series of walks with naturalist Connie Boyce. For details about each walk, see the museum calendar<http://www.ccmnh.org/index.php?module=PostCalendar&func=view&tplview=default&viewtype=month&Date=20110301&pc_username=&pc_category=&pc_topic=>.



Nitrogen Reduction in Wastewater Treatment Workshop - On March 24, the Coalition for Buzzards Bay will hold a workshop for decision makers<http://www.savebuzzardsbay.org/decisionmaker> on reduction of nitrogen pollution in wastewater. Nitrogen Reduction in On-Site Disposal Systems and Small Flow Wastewater Plants, will focus on reducing nitrogen loading in small-scale wastewater treatment situations from the single home to the neighborhood system. The workshop will be held at the Sea Education Association in Falmouth.



High School Student Marine Science Symposium - On March 16, Massachusetts Marine Educators, the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth, and the New Bedford ECHO Project will present the 28th annual High School Student Marine Science Symposium<http://massmarineeducators.org/hsmss2011.php> from 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth.



Constructed Wetlands and Regenerative Stormwater Webcast - On March 16, the Center for Watershed Protection will hold Design, Installation, and Maintenance of Constructed Wetlands and Regenerative Stormwater<http://www.cwp.org/our-work/training/webcasts.html#Next%20Webcast>, a webcast to address innovations and design criteria for a new generation of constructed wetlands. Information on how to boost the performance of constructed wetland designs and research results on runoff reduction and pollutant removal rates will be presented. The webcast will also introduce "regenerative stormwater conveyance," an innovative approach to convey and treat runoff and restore habitats.



Cape Wildlife Course - On March 17, 19, 24, and 26, CCMNH will present a four-session course with Master Naturalist Peter Trull on Gray Seals, Coywolves, Fishers, and Great Whales. For more information, see the museum website<http://www.ccmnh.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=338>.



Disaster Recovery Symposium - On March 21-25, the Public Entity Risk Institute will hold the online symposium Community Recovery from Disaster<https://www.riskinstitute.org/peri/content/view/288/40/>. This free symposium will bring to practitioners and public officials practical information about the latest research and lessons learned about the economic, social, physical, institutional, and interdisciplinary dimensions of disaster recovery.



Marine Science Lectures - The Northeastern University Marine Science Center (MSC) is holding a series of monthly marine science lectures through April. On March 22 at 7:00 p.m., Tim Purinton, Acting Director, Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration, will speak about the Restoring Aquatic Habitat-From The Source To The Sea. See the MSC events calendar<http://www.northeastern.edu/marinescience/about/events.html> for details on these lectures.



Field Guide Training Course - Starting March 22, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will hold its annual training course for those interested in becoming museum field guides. This year's course will consist of nine 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. sessions-on Tuesdays, March 22-April 26, and on Saturdays, April 2-16. Field guides are trained to guide school groups in the spring and fall and lead tourists during the summer. For more information, see the Museum's website<http://www.ccmnh.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=341>.



State of Salem Sound Symposium - On March 25-26 from 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Salem Sound Coastwatch<http://www.salemsound.org> (SSCW) will hold the State of Salem Sound Symposium<http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e3d6rahy66dd77c1&llr=ihngqacab>-What is the State of Salem Sound? Past, Present, and Future. Topics will include new data on sediments and water quality, threats from climate change, newly observed marine invasive species, economic value of a healthy environment, and more. A luncheon to celebrate SSCW's 20th anniversary will follow the Saturday session. Space is limited and preregistration is requested. The March 25 session is at Endicott College in Beverly and the March 26 session is at Salem State University in Salem.



Watershed Expo - On April 2, the North and South Rivers Watershed Association will hold the 9th annual Watershed Expo<http://www.watershedexpo.org/> at Norwell Middle School. The full-day expo includes workshops, demonstrations, and lectures on kayaking, hiking, bird watching, fly fishing, cultural history, boat building, and many more activities within the watershed.



Water Watch Lectures - On Wednesday evenings through April 3, the North & South Rivers Watershed Association will hold the 2011 Water Watch Lecture Series<http://www.nsrwa.org/Event-38.html>. Topics include coastal geology, birds on the beach, invasive species, the Atlantic herring, oyster reef restoration, and weather lore. All lectures will start at 7:00 p.m. at the South Shore Natural Science Center in Norwell.



Flood Conference - On April 3-5, the National Flood Determination Association (NFDA) will hold the 14th Annual NFDA Retreat and Conference<http://nfdaflood.com/annual_retreat_reg_2011.php> in Scottsdale, Arizona. This conference will give flood management professionals an opportunity to discuss flood issues and flood hazard data. Topics include the National Flood Insurance Program, FEMA mapping initiatives, levee outreach initiatives, state-level hazard mapping, and legal issues.



Cyanobacteria Workshop - On April 14, the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (NEIWPCC) will hold the 2011 Northeast Regional Cyanobacteria Workshop<https://www.neiwpcc.org/cyanobacteria_workshop.asp> in Boxborough. The workshop provides participants with an opportunity to learn and share information about the state of science, current detection methodologies and treatment techniques, monitoring protocols, and upcoming state and federal guidance and regulatory activity concerning cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins.



Environmental, Energy & Engineering Career Day - On April 18, the Environmental Business Council (EBC) will hold the 7th Annual Environmental, Energy & Engineering Career Day<http://www.ebcne.org/index.php?id=77&no_cache=1&tx_ciceventscalendar_pi1%5bsinuid%5d=599&cHash=d0f517feb3b388bede0a05a21035ff10> in Boston. EBC's Career Day is a great opportunity for environmental professionals, recent graduates, and students to learn about career opportunities in New England. The event will feature regional leaders in environmental and energy engineering, consulting, law, and policy, as well as government agencies and nonprofits.



Northeast Water Science Forum - On April 27-29, the NEIWPCC will hold the 2011 Northeast Water Science Forum<http://www.neiwpcc.org/ppcpconference/>, Science to Inform Pharmaceutical and Personal Care Product Management, in Portland, Maine. The conference will provide a forum for sharing the latest in high-quality, timely, and relevant scientific information and research on pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCP) in the water environment to help Northeast states make informed decisions regarding policy and management. Conference sessions are planned on: occurrence, fate, and transport; aquatic and human health effects; removal and treatment; and waste management and product stewardship.



Coastal Sediments 2011 - On May 2-6, 2011, the 7th International Symposium on Coastal Engineering and Science of Coastal Sediment Processes<http://coastalsediments.cas.usf.edu/index.html>, Coastal Sediments '11, will be held in Miami, Florida. This conference provides an international forum for exchange of information among coastal engineers, geologists, marine scientists, shallow-water oceanographers, and others interested in the physical processes of coastal sediment transport and morphology change.



New England Estuarine Research Society-Call for Papers - On 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. Abstracts must be submitted online<http://www.neers.org/main/meetings/CallForPapers.html> by March 11.



Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference - On May 17-18, 2011, 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-Save the Date - On May 18-19, the Massachusetts Rivers Alliance will hold the Conference on River Monitoring and Climate Change in Massachusetts<http://massriversalliance.org/2011/02/13/save-the-date-may-18-19-river-monitoring-climate-change-conference/> in Leominster. The conference will focus on how citizen-based monitoring can help us understand and address the impacts of climate change on the Commonwealth's rivers.



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

·         Cape Cod Natural History Conference - On March 12, the MassAudubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary will hold the 16th annual Cape Cod Natural History Conference<http://www.massaudubon.org/Nature_Connection/Sanctuaries/Wellfleet/news.php?id=1550&event=no> at Cape Cod Community College in West Barnstable. This full-day conference will feature presenters from environmental organizations across Cape Cod, speaking on a diversity of natural history topics.

·         National Beach Conference - On March 15-17, EPA's Office of Water will hold the 2011 National Beach Conference<http://water.epa.gov/type/oceb/beaches/meeting2011_index.cfm> in Miami, Florida. This three-day conference will provide a forum to discuss national beach water quality issues, exchange information, and coordinate efforts in research and decision making. On March 14, EPA will offer several training sessions<http://water.epa.gov/type/oceb/beaches/meeting2011_training.cfm> on beach monitoring, rapid testing methods, and predictive tools.

·         Benthic Ecology Meeting - On March 16-20, the 40th annual Benthic Ecology Meeting<http://bem.disl.org/> (BEM) will be held in Mobile, Alabama. The 2011 BEM will feature special sessions on the oil spill impacts, oyster reef restoration, and the Gulf of Mexico acoustic array. This meeting has historically provided a venue for graduate and undergraduate students to present their work and interact with established researchers in all areas of marine biology and ecology.

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

·         Coastal Geotools 2011 - From March 21-24, Coastal Geotools 2011<http://geotools.csc.noaa.gov/default.aspx> will be held in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This conference series focuses on the technical information needs of the nation's coastal programs.

·         Land Conservation Conference - On March 26, The Trustees of Reservations, the Putnam Conservation Institute, and the Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition will hold the 21st Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference<http://www.thetrustees.org/things-to-do/special-events/massachusetts-land-conservation-conference/> in Worcester. This annual, day-long event provides land trust board members, staff, volunteers, and municipal commission members with information, skills, and connections for effective land conservation. The theme of the 2011 conference is Climate Change and Land Conservation.

·         Whale Education Workshop - On April 2-3, the New Bedford Whaling Museum<http://www.whalingmuseum.org/> will host the professional development workshop, Schooling with Whales. This 10-hour professional development course will introduce teachers in grades 3-8 to whale/cetacean-related topics that can be used to teach concepts prescribed by state science and mathematics frameworks. Teachers will leave with a packet of activities, links to useful websites, and a greater knowledge of whales. To register, contact Robert Rocha at rrocha at whalingmuseum.org<mailto:rrocha at whalingmuseum.org>.

·         Water Resources Conference - On April 7, the Massachusetts Water Resources Research Center will hold the 8th annual Water Resources Conference<http://www.WRRCconference.com> at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The conference will address the needs for water monitoring, assessment, and management of water resources in New England in the face of variability due to changes in climate, land use, population, and other environmental stressors.

·         National Hurricane Conference - On April 18-22, the 2011 National Hurricane Conference<http://www.hurricanemeeting.com/> will be held in Atlanta, Georgia. This conference will focus on methods to strengthen hurricane preparedness and response in the United States and Caribbean. Topics include amateur radio communication, healthcare accessibility, debris management, and utility damage assessments.



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 unveils new coastal mapping tool (Cape Cod Times, 2/18/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110218/NEWS/102180323/-1/NEWS01



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.)

·         Taking stock of wildlife: Parker River Refuge embarks on 15-year conservation plan (Daily News of Newburyport, 2/28/11) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x186202720/Taking-stock-of-wildlife

·         Wastewater: Cape faces costly cleanup (Cape Cod Times, 2/27/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110227/NEWS/102270320/-1/NEWS01

·         More Canada seals finding way to Cape Ann (Gloucester Times, 2/27/11) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/local/x1348438388/More-Canada-seals-finding-way-to-Cape-Ann

·         Comment period for wind power extended (Cape Cod Times, 2/25/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110225/NEWS/102250321/-1/NEWS01

·         Deadline delayed for leases on wind farms off Vineyard (Vineyard Gazette, 2/25/11) -
http://www.mvgazette.com/article.php?29100

·         Rocky New England coast erodes more slowly, US says (Boston Globe, 2/24/11) -
http://www.boston.com/news/science/articles/2011/02/24/rocky_new_england_coast_erodes_more_slowly_us_says/?p1=Well_Science_links

·         Study documents East Coast beach erosion (Cape Cod Times, 2/24/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110224/NEWS/102240322/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Report: Rock eases erosion of Cape Ann's coast (Gloucester Times, 2/24/11) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/local/x962030951/Report-Rock-eases-erosion-of-Cape-Anns-coast

·         State and towns awaiting word on emergency aid (Patriot Ledger, 2/24/11) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/topstories/x353346365/State-and-towns-awaiting-word-on-emergency-aid#axzz1EsmBJaOT

·         Large Canadian seals arrive in Mass. (Boston Globe, 2/24/11) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/gallery/22311_Canadian_seals_arrive_in_Massachusetts/?p1=Features_link1

·         Wind energy leasing plan under fire by Mass. lawmakers (Cape Cod Times, 2/23/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110223/NEWS/102230324/-1/NEWS01

·         PI shellfish plant may lose funding (Daily News of Newburyport, 2/22/11) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x1348432228/PI-shellfish-plant-may-lose-funding

·         Salem focuses on waterfront: Commercial pier, attracting cruise ships among goals (Salem News, 2/21/11) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/local/x186196881/Salem-focuses-on-waterfront

·         Rockport's Granite Pier pegged for repairs (Gloucester Times, 2/20/11) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/local/x740792075/Rockports-Granite-Pier-pegged-for-repairs

·         Menemsha pier: Making a fresh start (Cape Cod Times, 2/20/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110220/NEWS/102200337/-1/NEWS01

·         Wastewater proposal seeks to flush Cape creek (Cape Cod Times, 2/19/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110219/NEWS/102190329/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Massachusetts river restoration project receives national award (EEA Press Release, 2/18/11) -
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeapressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoeea&b=pressrelease&f=110218-PR-River-Project-Award&csid=Eoeea

·         Hingham beach access granted (Patriot Ledger, 2/17/11) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/topstories/x203596460/Hingham-beach-access-granted

·         Cape Wind permit challenged (Cape Cod Times, 2/16/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110216/NEWS/102160322/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Army Corps probes PI beach scraping: Homeowners face potential fines for work (Daily News of Newburyport, 2/15/11) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x1227164614/Army-Corps-probes-PI-beach-scraping

·         Brewster losing erosion fight (Cape Cod Times, 2/15/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110215/NEWS/102150325

·         Cape Wind's critics file new appeal of offshore wind farm (Patriot Ledger, 2/15/11) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/topstories/x938336390/Cape-Wind-s-critics-file-new-appeal-of-offshore-wind-farm

·         Deep thinking on snowy spells: Scientists study North Atlantic weather system for clues to patterns of miserable winters (Boston Globe, 2/13/11) -
http://www.boston.com/news/weather/articles/2011/02/13/researchers_try_to_decipher_patterns_of_super_snowy_spells/

·         Found at sea: Discovered shipwreck may have local ties (Daily News of Newburyport, 2/12/11) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x62527056/FOUND-AT-SEA

·         In Pacific discovery, traces of Nantucket and 'Moby-Dick' (Boston Globe, 2/11/11) -
http://www.boston.com/news/science/articles/2011/02/11/in_pacific_discovery_traces_of_nantucket_and_moby_dick/?p1=News_links

·         Lost whaling shipwreck with link to Melville's Moby-Dick discovered in the northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NOAA News, 2/11/11) -
http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2011/20110211_pmnmshipwreck.html

·         Bidding begins for wind sites (Vineyard Gazette, 2/11/11) -
http://www.mvgazette.com/article.php?28966

·         EPA and U.S. Coast Guard step up efforts to protect U.S. waters (EPA Press Release, 2/11/11) -
http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/ab2d81eb088f4a7e85257359003f5339/a6a997621f1c1281852578340059f6ff!OpenDocument

·         Maritime interests ask court to strike down Mass. oil spill law (Standard-Times, 2/10/11) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110210/NEWS/102100340&cid=sitesearch

·         New Bedford lobbies to improve harbor funding prospects (Standard-Times, 2/10/11) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110210/NEWS/102100328&cid=sitesearch

·         Waterfront plans dealt a setback: City wins appeal of flood maps; new legal challenge causes delay (Daily News of Newburyport, 2/9/11) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x353714703/Waterfront-plans-dealt-a-setback

·         East Coast waters targeted for 4 wind farms (Boston Globe, 2/8/11) -
http://www.boston.com/news/science/articles/2011/02/08/east_coast_waters_targeted_for_4_wind_farms/?p1=Well_Science_links

·         Some rare right whales prefer Maine in winter (Boston Globe, 2/7/11) -
http://www.boston.com/business/technology/articles/2011/02/07/some_rare_right_whales_prefer_maine_in_winter/

·         Chief will place civilian in Salem harbormaster job (Salem News, 2/7/11) -
http://www.salemnews.com/local/x856150958/Chief-will-place-civilian-in-Salem-harbormaster-job

·         EPA unveils New Bedford Harbor cleanup-specific web site (Standard-Times, 2/6/11) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110206/NEWS/102060333&cid=sitesearch

·         City asks new waiver on sewage (Gloucester Times, 2/4/11) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/local/x150253150/City-asks-new-waiver-on-sewage

·         Costly wastewater study clogs process for Orleans (Cape Cod Times, 2/2/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110202/NEWS/102020308/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Agreement to cut power plant discharge, send steam heat to Boston (Boston Globe, 2/2/11) -
http://www.boston.com/news/science/articles/2011/02/02/power_plant_plan_to_cut_discharge_send_heat_to_boston/

·         The future of North Shore's Great Marsh (EEA Great Outdoors Blog, 2/1/11) -
http://environment.blog.state.ma.us/blog/2011/02/the-great-marsh.html

·         Long-delayed state reports hobble Cape waterway cleanup (Cape Cod Times, 2/1/11) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110201/NEWS/102010310/-1/NEWS01

·         20th century shipwreck in NOAA's Stellwagen Bank Sanctuary listed on National Register of Historic Places (NOAA News, 1/31/11) -
http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2011/20110131_stellwagen.html



Other Items of Interest

Environmental Education Awards - EEA is now accepting applications for the 2011 Secretary Awards for Excellence in Energy and Environmental Education<http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeaterminal&L=3&L0=Home&L1=Grants+%26+Technical+Assistance&L2=Education+%26+Training&sid=Eoeea&b=terminalcontent&f=eea_grants_eee_awards&csid=Eoeea>. All K-12 Massachusetts schools are eligible for cash awards for outstanding environmental and energy education projects. Winners will be notified in April and invited to attend a formal award ceremony at the State House. To apply, see the EEA website<http://commpres.env.state.ma.us/exedu/>. Applications are due by March 28.



New Massachusetts Building Code - On February 4, the 8th edition of the Massachusetts State Building Code was promulgated for one and two family residences. The new code went into effect for commercial buildings (larger than two-family residences) in 2010. These 8th edition codes are based on the 2009 International Building Code (IBC). The Department of Public Safety's Board of Building Regulations and Standards (BBRS), with assistance from DCR and other state agencies, wrote "front end amendments" to modify the 2009 IBC to be specific to the Commonwealth. For example, the 2009 IBC did not have prescriptive requirements that all new buildings in coastal dunes be constructed on open pilings-but this specific provision was included in the front end amendments. Builders now need to read both the International Code and the Massachusetts specific amendments. The new code for one and two-family residences will be concurrently effective with the 7th edition of the code for six months. Builders can choose to build under either code, without mixing provisions. After that time, the new code must be used. Copies of the front end amendments and the 2009 IBC are available from the State Bookstore<http://www.sec.state.ma.us/spr/sprcat/catidx.htm>. For more information, see the BBRS website<http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eopsterminal&L=3&L0=Home&L1=Public+Safety+Agencies&L2=Massachusetts+Department+of+Public+Safety&sid=Eeops&b=terminalcontent&f=dps_feature_bbrs_july16_10&csid=Eeops>.



2011 Nickerson Fellowship - The Nickerson Conservation Fellowship Committee is soliciting proposals from self-directed, qualified individuals whose work will contribute to the knowledge of natural and cultural resources within the Cape Cod National Seashore. Proposals will be accepted for research in the broad areas of the natural and social sciences, including terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem processes, biotic and abiotic ecosystem components, cultural and natural resource management, and the political and social implications of resource protection and management. The 2011 fellowship will provide a $3,000 stipend as well as free housing. For details, including application information, see the fellowship brochure<http://www.nps.gov/caco/naturescience/loader.cfm?csModule=security/getfile&PageID=297501> (PDF, 85 KB). The application deadline is March 21.



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



Nick Winter Memorial Scholarship Fund - The Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM) and the ASFPM Foundation will grant a $2,000 scholarship for the 2011-2012 academic year to a full-time college junior or senior currently enrolled in an undergraduate program related to floodplain/stormwater management, or a student enrolled in a graduate program in a field related to floodplain/stormwater management. For details see, the ASFPM website<http://www.asfpmfoundation.org/winters.htm>. Applications are due by March 31.



EPA Smart Growth Awards - EPA is seeking applications for the 2011 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement. This award recognizes communities that use the principles of smart growth to create better places. For more information, see the EPA website<http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/awards.htm>. Applications are due by April 6.



Marine Art Contest - Massachusetts Marine Educators and Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary is seeking entries from students in grades K-12 for the 2011 Marine Art Contest. For details, see the Stellwagen website<http://stellwagen.noaa.gov/news/pdfs/art_contest_2011.pdf> (PDF, 1.7 MB). Entries are due by April 28.



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.



National Ground Water Awareness Week - March 6-12 is National Ground Water Awareness Week, the National Ground Water Association's effort to highlight the value of this natural resource. Groundwater is important to everyone and there are many things you can do to protect groundwater, from proper management of household hazardous substances to septic system maintenance. For more information, check out the Ground Water Awareness Week website<http://www.ngwa.org/public/awarenessweek/index.aspx>.







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=March%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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