[SEMCO] March 2012 CZ-Mail

Tue Mar 6 11:00:08 EST 2012

CZ-MAIL

March 2012

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%202012%20CZ-Mail>.

South Cape Cod and Islands Coastal Waters Nominated as No Discharge for Boat Sewage

On March 5, the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), through CZM, submitted an application to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to designate the South Cape Cod and Islands No Discharge Area<http://www.mass.gov/czm/nda/> (NDA). Once approved by EPA, the designation will prohibit the discharge of any treated or untreated boat sewage in this 807-square-mile area of state waters south of Cape Cod and surrounding Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard. The nomination caps more than five years of extensive work by CZM and 14 communities to ensure that the necessary waste pumpout facilities are available. These communities are Chilmark, West Tisbury, Tisbury, Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, Gosnold, Falmouth, Mashpee, Barnstable, Yarmouth, Dennis, Harwich, Chatham, and Nantucket. There are now 30 boat sewage pumpout facilities available in accessible locations throughout the area, making compliance with the no discharge requirements convenient for boaters. Several of these communities have at one time received reimbursement for 75 percent of the cost of purchasing and operating their pumpout facilities via the Commonwealth's Clean Vessel Act Program<http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dmf/programsandprojects/cvabig.htm>, administered by the Division of Marine Fisheries (MarineFisheries). Once this NDA is approved, over 95 percent of state waters will be no discharge. For details on the South Cape Cod and Islands NDA, see the EEA Press Release<http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120305-pr-coastal-boat-waste-ban.html>.

Want to Learn About Online Mapping with MORIS? CZM Will Bring the Training to You

The Massachusetts Ocean Resource Information System<http://www.mass.gov/czm/mapping/index.htm>, or MORIS, is a web-based coastal mapping tool that makes coastal and ocean data available to the public-allowing people to interactively view data, create and share maps, and download data for use in a Geographic Information System (GIS). While designed for coastal management professionals, MORIS can be easily used by anyone interested in these data and maps. In January, CZM released a new-and-improved MORIS that allows users to display new basemaps (such as Google and Bing), easily search available data layers, print and save maps, change map symbols, directly access select federal and other external data sources, readily share and modify the 100% open source code, and much, much more. While learning to use MORIS is easy, discovering the breadth and depth of options available takes time. To help your organization learn all that MORIS can do, CZM data management staff are available to train your team. To find out more or to schedule a training, email CZM's Dan Sampson at daniel.sampson at state.ma.us<mailto:daniel.sampson at state.ma.us?subject=MORIS%20Training>.

CZ-Tip: Plant Beachgrass Now to Harvest Wind-Blown Sand This Summer

With blustery winds, cold temperatures, and snow covering the March landscape, most people probably aren't thinking about digging in the sand to plant grass. But if your coastal property includes a beach or dune, you may want to devote a bit of your late-winter/early spring attention to a lean, green, sand-catching machine: American beachgrass. This native plant with its long, upright leaves and fast-growing underground root structure helps catch blowing sand and hold it in place. The ideal time to plant this wonder plant is generally from mid-November through mid-April. See CZ-Tip: Dune Building with Beachgrass<http://www.mass.gov/czm/tips/beachgrass.htm> for details on beachgrass benefits and tips on how to plant it successfully.

Grants/Funding/Proposal Opportunities

§319 Grants Pre-RFR Meeting - On March 12 and 20 from 10:00 a.m.-noon, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) will hold two meetings to field questions and discuss the upcoming Request for Responses (RFR) for the §319 Nonpoint Source Pollution Competitive Grants Program. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to attend these pre-RFR sessions to be held at the MassDEP offices in Worcester<http://mass.gov/dep/about/region/centralr.htm>. For additional information, see 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 "BRP 2012-02A." 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>.

NROC Seeking Ocean Planning Contractors - The Northeast Regional Ocean Council (NROC) has issued two Requests for Proposals (RFP) to support its ocean planning efforts. The Sector-Specific Workshops in Support of Ocean Planning in New England RFR is for a contractor to assist with implementing a series of workshops in support of ocean planning in New England. The Spatial Characterization of Commercial Fishing Activity in New England RFR is for a contractor to develop products that characterize spatial patterns of commercial fishing activity in marine waters of New England. To download the RFPs, see the NROC website<http://collaborate.csc.noaa.gov/nroc/default.aspx>. Proposals are due by March 20.

Priority Restoration Projects - The Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration (DER) of the Department of Fish and Game will issue a RFR in late March seeking nominations for aquatic habitat restoration and revitalization Priority Projects. Selected projects will be eligible to receive technical assistance from DER staff, technical services by qualified contractors paid for by DER, and/or direct grant funding. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss potential projects with DER staff prior to the release of the RFR on or around March 26. For details, see the pre-RFR announcement<http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/der/pdf/der201201prerfr.pdf> (PDF, 91 KB).

Green Infrastructure Technical Assistance - EPA's Green Infrastructure Program is seeking applications for direct assistance to facilitate the use of green infrastructure to protect water quality. Technical assistance will be directed to watersheds with significant water quality degradation associated with urban stormwater. Approximately $950,000 is available to fund 10-20 projects. For details, see the new EPA Green Infrastructure website<http://water.epa.gov/infrastructure/greeninfrastructure/>. Letters of interest are due by April 6.

Nature Conservancy Restoration Grants - The Nature Conservancy (TNC), in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (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_tnc-noaa_crp_partnership_2012.pdf> (PDF, 315 KB). Proposals are due by April 13.

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

·         Water Quality Management Planning Program Grants - MassDEP is seeking proposals for the Fiscal Year 2012 Federal §604(b) Water Quality Management Planning Program Grants. The focus of the 2012 grants will be watershed or sub-watershed based nonpoint source assessment activities that support MassDEP's assessment efforts. 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 "BRP 2012-01." Project summaries for previously funded projects are available on the MassDEP website<http://www.mass.gov/dep/water/grants.htm#sums>. Applications are due by March 16.

·         FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grants - The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) are inviting communities, state agencies, and tribal governments and territories to submit applications for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. This post-disaster funding is available as a result of the federal disaster declarations for the June 2011 Tornadoes and Tropical Storm Irene, but any community can apply, not just those affected by these disasters. Grants will assist applicants with hazard mitigation planning and the implementation of hazard mitigation projects to reduce or eliminate the loss of life and property due to natural hazards. For complete grant details, see the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Memo<http://www.mass.gov/eopss/docs/mema/dr-1994-hmgp-grants-available-memo-dec-2011.pdf> (PDF, 87 KB). For more information, contact Scott MacLeod at scott.macleod at state.ma.us<mailto:scott.macleod at state.ma.us?subject=Hazard%20Mitigation%20Grants>. Full applications are due by April 2.

·         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 May 1.

Products/Publications

Sea Level Rise and Disadvantaged Communities - The new research paper, Risks of Sea Level Rise to Disadvantaged Communities in the United States<http://www.springerlink.com/content/x411112212347762/> published in Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies for Global Change, provides details on how climate change and sea level rise pose risks to coastal communities around the world. Using a new analytic tool to identify geographic areas in the contiguous United States, researchers found that socially vulnerable populations were likely to experience disproportionate impacts from sea level rise. The writers recommended the consideration of the equity and environmental justice implications of sea level rise in climate change policy analysis and coastal adaptation planning.

State of FEMA - FEMA has released the 2012 State of FEMA<http://www.fema.gov/about/state_of_fema/index.shtm>, a report on the agency's 2011 accomplishments and a look at the strategic priorities for 2012 and beyond.

Green Economy in a Blue World - The United Nations Environment Programme has released Green Economy in a Blue World<http://www.unep.org/pdf/green_economy_blue.pdf> (PDF, 2.2 MB), a report on ocean health that highlights ways to reduce the environmental impact and improve the environmental, economic, and social sustainability of traditional and emerging ocean-oriented economies.

Sound Waves - The January/February 2012 issue of Sound Waves<http://soundwaves.usgs.gov/>, the monthly newsletter from U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), features three articles on the USGS/CZM collaborative seafloor mapping efforts, including recent seafloor surveys off Massachusetts and seafloor sampling in September 2011 aboard the Ocean Survey Vessel Bold.

Watershed Science Bulletin-Call for Articles - The Watershed Science Bulletin<http://www.awsps.org/publications/watershed-science-bulletin.html> (WSB) is the peer-reviewed journal of the Association of Watershed and Stormwater Professionals (AWSP) that features practical, science-based solutions to important watershed and stormwater management issues. AWSP is currently soliciting short (5,000 words or less) articles for the Fall 2012 issue, which will focus on watershed planning and will highlight innovative watershed-based policies, tools, funding mechanisms, and new data that can assist communities developing watershed plans. Articles are due by April 6.

MassDEP eNewsletter - The Winter 2012 issue of EnviroMatters<http://mass.gov/dep/public/publications/enews.htm> from MassDEP features articles on wind turbine health impacts, MassDEP's Action Plan for Regulatory Reform, and other recent MassDEP efforts, achievements, news, and updates.

MIT Sea Grant Newsletter - The February 2012 newsletter<http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=n7ootodab&v=001FbEh9Xz0N4KbvuYVnlpwBwU8X2DadcZuEEQO60ZhpcCbOnsJqYzxvffqIXGBj1zVgmIokVdWFDumpET6xVXUpfdF5UEbaZ9sbiwKaRzvuRxGnM_mZbhfwQ%3D%3D> of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Sea Grant College Program features details about four new research projects for 2012.

EPA Watershed News - The February 2012 issue of Watershed News<http://water.epa.gov/type/watersheds/0212.cfm>, the newsletter from the EPA's Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds, provides information for watershed groups, including funding, programs, contests, watershed tools, publications, events, and other watershed news.

Websites

Google Public Alerts - In January, Google Public Alerts<http://www.google.org/publicalerts> was launched to provide a resource for relevant emergency alerts. Presented through Google Maps, emergency information from authoritative sources is provided is an easily searchable and mapped format. For additional information, see the Google Blog<http://blog.google.org/2012/01/public-alerts-now-on-google-maps.html>.

Coastal Ocean Science Blog - NOAA's National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) has launched the Coastal Ocean Science Blog<http://noaaoceanscience.wordpress.com/> to provide information on research conducted within NCCOS. This blog will explore topics related to oceans, with discussions presented through the lens of experiences, explanations, descriptions, and personal reflections.

Volunteer Precipitation Mapping - The Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network<http://www.cocorahs.org/> (CoCoRaHS) is a grassroots volunteer network of backyard weather observers of all ages and backgrounds working together to measure and map precipitation (rain, hail, and snow) in local communities. By using low-cost measurement tools, stressing training and education, and maintaining an interactive website, CoCoRaHS aims to provide the highest quality data for natural resource, education, and research applications.

Online Climate Change Adaptation Information Exchange - The weADAPT Adaptation Layer<http://weadapt.org/> provides climate adaptation information through Google Earth with examples of adaptation projects, good practices, and lessons learned. weADAPT is an online "open space" on climate adaptation issues, which allows practitioners, researchers, and policy makers to access credible, high quality information and to share experiences.

Database of Climate Adaptation Activities - The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change has released an online database of actions on adaptation<http://unfccc.int/adaptation/nairobi_work_programme/private_sector_initiative/items/6547.php> to help businesses and communities adapt to climate change. The adaptation practices listed in the database include ensuring access to safe and clean drinking water, promoting resilience of business operations to disasters, providing technologies or services to help vulnerable communities adapt to climate change impacts, increasing agricultural yields in climate-vulnerable areas, developing climate-friendly goods and services, and "climate proofing" the supply chains of companies.

NOAA Response and Restoration - The NOAA Office of Response and Restoration updated website<http://response.restoration.noaa.gov/> has been updated and provides detailed information and comprehensive solutions to environmental hazards caused by oil, chemicals, and marine debris.

Coastal Management Training - The NOAA Coastal Services Center (CSC) provides a variety of training opportunities for coastal resource management professionals<http://www.csc.noaa.gov/training/>. Training is done at the CSC training facility or onsite at a local organization at minimal cost for participants and host groups. Also, free online courses and webinars are available.

Watershed Academy - EPA's Watershed Academy<http://water.epa.gov/learn/training/wacademy/index.cfm> provides training and information on implementing watershed approaches. The Academy's self-paced training modules, webcast seminars, and live training courses presents current information from national experts across a broad range of watershed topics.

Public Comment

Mt. Hope Bay NDA - CZM and EEA are seeking public comments on a draft application to EPA to designate the waters of Mt. Hope Bay as a vessel No Discharge Area<http://www.mass.gov/czm/nda/> (NDA). Within the NDA, the dumping of all boat sewage, both treated and untreated, will be prohibited. The NDA will encompass all navigable marine waters in the communities of Fall River, Somerset, Swansea, Dighton, Freetown, and Berkley. To obtain a copy of the draft application, contact CZM's Todd Callaghan at Todd.Callaghan at state.ma.us<mailto:Todd.Callaghan at state.ma.us> or (617) 626-1233. Submit written comments by March 14 to Todd Callaghan, Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management, 251 Causeway Street, Suite 800, Boston, MA 02114, or by email to Todd.Callaghan at state.ma.us<mailto:Todd.Callaghan at state.ma.us>.

Offshore Energy - The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is seeking information, nominations, and comments for an environmental assessment regarding the potential development of offshore wind energy projects in an area of federal waters on the Outer Continental Shelf south of Massachusetts. For details, see the Call for Information and Nominations<http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-02-06/html/2012-2645.htm> and Intent to Prepare an Environmental Assessment<http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-02-06/html/2012-2649.htm>. For more information and maps of the proposed area, see the BOEM website<http://www.boem.gov/Renewable-Energy-Program/State-Activities/Massachusetts.aspx>. All submissions are due by March 22.

Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge Conservation Plan - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking comments on its intent to prepare a comprehensive conservation plan and environmental assessment for the Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge<http://www.fws.gov/northeast/mashpee/> on Cape Cod. For more information, see the Federal Register Notice<http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-02-01/html/2012-2142.htm>.

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

·         National Fish, Wildlife and Plants Climate Adaptation Strategy - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, along with NOAA and other federal, state, and tribal partners, are seeking comments on the draft National Fish, Wildlife and Plants Climate Adaptation Strategy<http://www.wildlifeadaptationstrategy.gov/public-review-draft.php>. The strategy was drafted to inspire and enable natural resource professionals and other decision makers to take action to conserve the nation's fish, wildlife, plants, and ecosystem functions, as well as the human uses and values these natural systems provide, in a changing climate. Comments are due by March 5.

·         Marine Mammal Assessment Guidelines - The National Marine Fisheries Service and NOAA are seeking public comments on draft revisions to the guidelines for preparing marine mammal stock assessment reports<http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/sars/guidelines.htm>. Submit comments, identified by "NOAA-NMFS-2012-0007," through regulations.gov<http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=NOAA-NMFS-2012-0007-0001> by March 26.

Job Postings

Summer Opportunities at Three Bays Preservation - Three Bays Preservation is seeking applications for summer rangers and interns<http://www.3bays.org/resources/job_opportunities.html> on Cape Cod. Each summer, Three Bays uses summer interns and rangers to help with programs including water quality monitoring, invasive species monitoring, oyster propagation, and community outreach. Internships are unpaid positions for high school students and rangers are paid positions with the primary responsibility to monitor activities on Dead Neck Island.

Calendar

Nitrogen Control at Treatment Plants Webinar - On March 8 from 1:00-4:30 p.m., EPA will present Nitrogen Control at Wastewater Treatment Plants<http://www.epa.gov/nrmrl/events/event03082012.html>, a webinar that will provide updates to the engineering design and operation guidance for the control of nitrogen and phosphorus at municipal wastewater treatment plants. The technical guidance will support the implementation of new nitrogen water quality standards being developed by the states.

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 March 12 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.

Marine Science Lectures - The Northeastern University Marine Science Center (MSC) is holding a series of monthly marine science lectures through April. On March 13 at 7 p.m., Dr. Sal Genovese, Program Director of the Marine Science Center at Northeastern University, will speak about the Three Seas Program: The Next Generation of Marine Biologists. See the MSC events calendar<http://www.northeastern.edu/marinescience/events.html> for details on this and other upcoming lectures.

Oyster Farming Talk - On March 13, the Friends of the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will host a talk by Diane and Dave Carlson<http://www.ccmnh.org/index.php?module=PostCalendar&func=view&Date=20120313&tplview=default&viewtype=details&eid=1149&print=>, owners of Ebbwater Sea Farm, an oyster farm in Brewster. They will discuss experiences and challenges of growing oysters in Cape Cod Bay.

Piping Plover Lecture - On March 15, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present The Plight of the Piping Plover<http://www.ccmnh.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=451> with Scott Hecker, Executive Director of the Goldenrod Foundation. The discussion will focus on the efforts to protect threatened terns and plovers at dozens of beaches on the Massachusetts coast.

Research at the Reserve - On March 15, 22, and 29, the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve will host a free Research at the Reserve Coffee House Series<http://www.waquoitbayreserve.org/HotLinks/Research%20Coffee%20House%20Series_spring%202012.pdf> (PDF, 93 KB), an informal evening learning about the cutting edge research happening at the reserve. Each session begins at 7:00 p.m. and coffee and snacks will be served.

Herring Monitoring - The Mystic River Watershed Association<http://mysticriver.org/herring-monitoring/> (MyRWA) is seeking volunteer fish monitors to count herring at the Mystic Lakes Dam fish ladder from April 1-June 1. No previous experience or knowledge is required. On March 17 from 1-3 p.m., MyRWA will hold a training for this new program. To register, see the MyWRA website<https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dHhkZk12cHNXelRFR0FFZzB1a2Y5Qnc6MQ>.

Field Guide Training Course - Starting March 20, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will hold its annual training course for those interested in becoming museum field guides<http://www.ccmnh.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=452>. This year's course will consist of nine sessions-on Tuesdays, March 20-April 24, and on Saturdays, March 31-April 7. Field guides are trained to guide school groups in the spring and fall and lead tourists during the summer. For more information, contact Bud Ferris at bferris at cmnh.org<mailto:bferris at cmnh.org> or Barbara Knoss at bknoss at ccmnh.org<mailto:bknoss at ccmnh.org>.

Water Watch Lectures - On Wednesday evenings through March 21, the North & South Rivers Watershed Association will hold the 2012 Water Watch Lecture Series<http://www.nsrwa.org/Event-77.html>. Topics include: the RMS Titanic; black bears, fishers, and beavers; and ospreys and eagles. All lectures will start at 7:00 p.m. at the South Shore Natural Science Center in Norwell.

Benthic Ecology Meeting - From March 21-24, the 41st annual Benthic Ecology Meeting<http://sci.odu.edu/bem/> will be held in Norfolk, Virginia. This meeting provides a venue for graduate and undergraduate students to present their work and interact with established researchers in all areas of marine biology and ecology.

GIS and Water Resources Conference - From March 26-28, the American Water Resources Association (AWRA) will hold the 2012 AWRA Spring Specialty Conference<http://www.awra.org/meetings/Spring2012/index.html>, GIS and Water Resources VII, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Presentations topics include water quality, flood risk, hydrologic modeling, water data integration, national hydrography dataset, LIDAR, and climate change.

Stormwater Management Workshops - In March and April, the MassDEP Regional Circuit Rider Program will present several free Stormwater Management in and near Wetlands workshops<http://www.mass.gov/dep/water/wastewater/swevents.htm> for municipal staff, volunteers, and other government officials in MassDEP's Southeast Region<http://www.mass.gov/dep/about/region/southeas.htm>. Workshop topics include jurisdiction, components of stormwater management, requirements for erosion control, construction issues, and state stormwater management standards.

BUAR Public Meeting - On March 29 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 Large Conference Room. The preliminary agenda includes discussion/approval of the January 26 meeting minutes, renewal of renewal or extension of five permits, 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>.

Water Education Conference-Call for Presentations - From May 23-25, Project WET<http://projectwet.org/> will hold the 2012 Project WET Annual Conference at Bridgewater State University in Bridgewater. Presentations are encouraged that discuss community-based approaches to water education. For details, see the Request for Presentations<http://library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1102241213309-168/2012+USA+Presenters+Form.pdf> (PDF, 2.1 MB). Submissions are due by March 31.

Flood Conference - From April 1-3, the National Flood Determination Association (NFDA) will hold the 15th Annual NFDA Retreat and Conference<http://nfdaflood.com/annual_retreat_reg_2012.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.

NEERS Spring Meeting - From April 12-14, the New England Estuarine Research Society (NEERS) will hold its Spring 2012 Meeting<http://www.neers.org/main/meetings/meetingindex.htm> in Plymouth. Meeting presentations will be on a variety of topics related to estuaries and coastal environments.

Environmental, Energy & Engineering Career Day - On April 13, the Environmental Business Council (EBC) will hold the 8th Annual Environmental, Energy & Engineering Career Day<http://www.ebcne.org/index.php?id=77&no_cache=1&tx_ciceventscalendar_pi1%5bcaldatets%5d=1333252800&tx_ciceventscalendar_pi1%5bsinuid%5d=793&cHash=9b0441fa1632a9b8cdd4e689abd1c025> 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.

Massachusetts Park Serve Day - On April 21, DCR's sixth annual Park Serve Day will be held at state parks and beaches throughout the Commonwealth. This statewide day of volunteer service helps to get Massachusetts parks and beaches ready for summer. Since 2007, thousands of volunteers have participated in dozens of projects, including picking up litter along ocean beaches, clearing debris from hiking trails, painting benches, and planting trees and flowers at picnic areas. In mid-March, volunteers can sign up online for events at participating DCR parks. Stay tuned to the DCR website<http://www.mass.gov/dcr/> for more information.

Charles River Cleanup - On April 21 from 9:00 a.m. to noon, the 13th Annual Charles River Cleanup<http://www.crwa.org/cleanup.html> will be held as part of American Rivers' National River Cleanup<http://www.americanrivers.org/site/PageServer?pagename=AR7_NationalRiverCleanup>. The cleanup, which coincides with DCR's Park Serve Day, will bring out thousands of volunteers to help to beautify the Charles River and its tributaries. Volunteers will pick up trash and clean the riverbanks at more than 100 sites from Bellingham to Boston.

Teachers on the Estuary - This summer, the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (WBNERR) will offer a research and field-based teacher training program called Teachers on the Estuary<http://www.waquoitbayreserve.org/teacher-training.shtml>. This program is designed to improve teachers' and students' understanding of the environment using local research examples, as well as to provide resources and experience to support the incorporation of estuary and watershed topics into classroom teaching. The WBNERR program is from July 9-12, plus a follow-up session on November 17 and in the spring 2013. Applications are due by April 22.

Global Marine Renewable Energy Conference - From April 24-26, the fifth annual Global Marine Renewable Energy Conference<http://www.globalmarinerenewable.com/> will be held in Washington, DC. This conference will explore how to create a more sustainable energy future with a diverse power generation portfolio that includes marine renewable energy technologies. Expert panelists will discuss their strategic visions, near-term objectives, and challenges faced with deploying these innovative technologies.

Oceans, Climate, and Security Conference - From May 21-23, the Collaborative Institute for Oceans, Climate, and Security at the University of Massachusetts Boston will host the Global Conference on Oceans, Climate, and Security<http://www.gcocs.org/> (GC '12). GC '12 will examine the conditions that are likely to be produced by climate change, how these conditions will affect coastal and ocean ecosystems and communities, and how they may affect human and national security interests. Speakers will include U.S. Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus and NOAA Administrator Jane Lubchenco.

Restoring the Bay's Natural Resources - In March, the Buzzards Bay Coalition will kick off its free Decision Maker Workshop Series<http://www.savebuzzardsbay.org/decisionmaker> at the Coalition headquarters in New Bedford. This three-part workshop series is focused on habitat restoration and will include site visits, lectures, and discussions. Various restoration projects will be deconstructed to understand their benefits and the critical role of each partner.

Boating Safety Course - Through June, the Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) will offer Boat Massachusetts<http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dle/courselist.htm>, a free, state and nationally approved boating safety course for boaters age 12 and older, which concentrates on the equipment and operating guidelines needed to enjoy boating in a safe and responsible way. All graduates ages 12-15 will receive a safety certificate that allows operation of a motorboat without adult supervision, as required by state law. All graduates ages 16-17 will also be allowed to operate a personal watercraft (jet ski, wave runner, etc.).

New Bedford Whaling Museum Lectures - Through May, the New Bedford Whaling Museum will host a Speakers' Series<http://www.whalingmuseum.org/programs/speakers-series> featuring unique lectures that focus on sailing, man and whales, and the significant holdings in the Museum collection.

Wednesday Walks - On Wednesdays through April, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will hold a series of walks with naturalist Connie Boyce. For details, see the museum calendar<http://www.ccmnh.org/index.php?module=PostCalendar&func=view&tplview=default&viewtype=month&Date=20120301&pc_username=&pc_category=&pc_topic=>.

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

·         Ecological Landscaping Conference - From March 7-8, the Ecological Landscaping Association will present the 18th annual Conference & Eco-Marketplace<http://www.ecolandscaping.org/conference/> in Springfield. The 2012 conference-Coming Full Circle: Origins and Destinations-will feature seminars and workshops presented by practitioners, writers, and educators in the fields of landscaping, gardening, eco-design solutions, and more.

·         Sea Rovers Clinic - From March 9-11, the Boston Sea Rovers will hold the 2012 Sea Rovers Clinic<http://www.bostonsearovers.com/> in Danvers. Each year the clinic is held to increase the awareness and appreciation of the marine environment with a focus on diving. The 2012 Clinic will include more than 40 daytime seminars, workshops, an international film festival, and a large display of dive equipment and services in New England.

·         Cape Cod Natural History Conference - On March 10, the MassAudubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary will hold the 17th 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.

·         MEES Conference - On March 14, the Massachusetts Environmental Education Society (MEES) will hold its 2012 conference<http://massmees.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=category&sectionid=4&id=195&Itemid=301>, Refresh: New Tools and Techniques for Today's Educators, in Worcester. Workshops will share ideas for revitalizing education practices and the systems used to promote environmental education.

·         Sustainable Water Management Conference - From March 18-21, the American Water Works Association will host the 2012 Sustainable Water Management Conference<http://www.awwa.org/Conferences/SustainableManagement.cfm?ItemNumber=56511&&navItemNumber=56514> in Portland, Oregon. The conference will address a wide range of topics concerning sustainable water management.

·         Environmental Biologist Conference - From March 21-23, the New England Association of Environmental Biologists (NEAEB) will hold the 36th annual meeting of NEAEB in Falmouth. NEAEB 2012<http://www.epa.gov/region1/neaeb2012/index.html> is a three-day conference that provides a forum for presenting current work and research on pressing environmental issues relevant to the region.

·         Land Conservation Conference - On March 24, The Trustees of Reservations, the Putnam Conservation Institute, and the Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition will hold the 22nd Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference<http://www.thetrustees.org/things-to-do/central-ma/2012-ma-land-conf.html?srregion=&srrelated_property=&srevent_type=&dateType=srevent_start_date&srstartDate=march+1&srendDate=march+31&x=22&y=2>, Working Lands: Farms, Forests, and Conservation, 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.

·         National Hurricane Conference - From March 26-29, the 2012 National Hurricane Conference<http://www.hurricanemeeting.com/> will be held in Orlando, Florida. This conference will focus on methods to strengthen hurricane preparedness and response in the United States and Caribbean.

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 looks to expand no-discharge zones (Cape Cod Times, 3/6/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120306/NEWS/203060322/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         State environmental officials launch new online coastal mapping tool (EEA Press Release, 2/28/12) -
http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120228-pr-online-coastal-mapping-tool.html

·         Plymouth and Duxbury get grants for coastal pollution projects (Plymouth Daily News, 2/20/12) -
http://plymouthdailynews.com/plymouth-and-duxbury-get-grants-coastal-pollution-projects-15661

·         Grant award for Hingham pumpout station (Wicked Local, 2/16/12) -
http://www.wickedlocal.com/hingham/topstories/x922340368/Grant-award-for-Hingham-pumpout-station#axzz1nbhbhaBj

·         Ipswich gets money for Farley Brook project (Salem News, 2/9/12) -
http://www.salemnews.com/local/x1704534501/Ipswich-gets-money-for-Farley-Brook-project

·         Four South Shore towns getting anti-pollution grants (Patriot Ledger, 2/9/12 ) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/news/x1085185391/Four-South-Shore-towns-getting-anti-pollution-grants#ixzz1lupS42ka

·         Cape groups awarded grants (Cape Cod Times, 2/8/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120208/NEWS/202080340/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Grants will help protect coastal water quality and habitats in Danvers, Salem (Boston.com, 2/7/12) -
http://www.boston.com/yourtown/news/salem/2012/02/grants_will_help_protect_coast.html

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.)

·         Patrick Administration budgets $35 million for commerce terminal in New Bedford Harbor (SouthCoastToday.com, 3/1/12) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120301/NEWS/203010342

·         Nature's power: Newburyport prototype harnesses ocean waves to generate electricity (Boston.com, 3/1/12) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2012/03/01/resolute_marine_energys_newburyport_lab_develops_system_for_turning_ocean_waves_into_clean_power_source/

·         Chatham beach camps face final days (Cape Cod Times, 3/1/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120301/NEWS/203010341/-1/NEWS01

·         Davis group grants public 'perpetual' use of Pavilion Beach (Gloucester Times, 2/28/12) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/local/x2054917658/Davis-group-grants-public-perpetual-use-of-Pavilion-Beach

·         New state tax credit rewards land conservation efforts (SouthCoastToday.com, 2/28/12) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120228/NEWS/202280321/-1/news

·         New site for offshore wind identified (SouthCoastToday.com, 2/27/12) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120227/NEWS/202270320/-1/NEWSMAP

·         BOEM identifies wind energy area offshore Rhode Island and Massachusetts (Maritime Executive, 2/27/12) -
http://www.maritime-executive.com/article/boem-identifies-wind-energy-area-offshore-rhode-island-and-massachusetts

·         Shellfish plant in jeopardy again (Daily News of Newburyport, 2/27/12) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x2118801783/shellfish-plant-in-jeopardy-again

·         Patrick-Murray Administration announces $1 million federal grant to restore Saugus' Rumney Marshes (EEA Press Release, 2/27/12) -
http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120227-pr-saugus-rumney-marshes-grant.html

·         Americans love the beach, but should watch out for bacteria (Washington Post, 2/26/12) -
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/americans-love-the-beach-but-should-watch-out-for-bacteria/2012/02/24/gIQAciObcR_story.html

·         Feds downsize wind lease area (Cape Cod Times, 2/25/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120225/NEWS/202250325/-1/NEWS01

·         Private use of town dredge reported to ethics board (Vineyard Gazette, 2/24/12) -
http://www.mvgazette.com/article.php?34122

·         Whales arrive early due to warm waters (Cape Cod Times, 2/24/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120224/NEWS/202240328

·         Missing jetties blamed for P'town erosion (Cape Cod Times, 2/23/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120223/NEWS/202230336/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Seashore moving ahead with plans to demolish cottages (Cape Cod Times, 2/23/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120223/NEWS/202230331/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Plans moving ahead for regional wastewater board (Cape Cod Times, 2/23/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120223/NEWS/202230335/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Costly changes to FEMA maps: Rising flood plains will drive up insurance fees (Daily News of Newburyport, 2/21/12) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x402363102/Costly-changes-to-FEMA-maps

·         From depths of the Charles, an ancient species (Boston.com, 2/20/12) -
http://www.boston.com/news/science/articles/2012/02/20/from_depths_of_the_charles_an_ancient_species/?p1=News_links

·         A shift in caring for stranded dolphins (Cape Cod Times, 2/19/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120219/NEWS/202190336/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Jetty work planned for September (Daily News of Newburyport, 2/18/12) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x1663461338/Jetty-work-planned-for-September

·         Capewide wastewater authority urged (Cape Cod Times, 2/18/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120218/NEWS/202180319/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Chatham cottage demolition to proceed (Cape Cod Times, 2/18/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120218/NEWS/202180330/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Cape Wind progress buoys South Terminal project (SouthCoastToday.com, 2/17/12) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120217/NEWS/202170327&cid=sitesearch

·         City eyes assuring Pavilion beach use (Gloucester Times, 2/16/12) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/topstories/x1118843050/City-eyes-assuring-Pavilion-beach-use

·         Unpermitted side deal muddies waters for Edgartown dredge (Martha's Vineyard Times, 2/15/12) -
http://www.mvtimes.com/marthas-vineyard/article.php?id=9588

·         Cape dolphin rescues face budget ax (Cape Cod Times, 2/15/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120215/NEWS/202150339/-1/NEWS01

·         Whales, wildlife top list of remaining wind farm concerns (Vineyard Gazette, 2/14/12) -
http://www.mvgazette.com/article.php?33976

·         Climate change increases risk of storm surges, according to MIT study (Boston.com, 2/14/12) -
http://www.boston.com/Boston/metrodesk/2012/02/climate-change-increases-risk-storm-surges-according-mit-study/3iC046kFbxF5RtIsGXkNeK/index.html

·         Feds meet with New Bedford fishermen on proposed offshore wind turbine area (SouthCoastToday.com, 2/14/12) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120214/NEWS/202140328

·         At least 11 more dolphins stranded on Cape; unexplained phenomenon total rises to 177 (Boston.com, 2/14/12) -
http://www.boston.com/Boston/metrodesk/2012/02/least-more-dolphins-stranded-cape-unexplained-phenomenon-total-rises/hfCkX5lh794spDHSR2Tf7I/index.html

·         'Storm of the century?' try 'storm of the decade' (MIT news, 2/13/12) -
http://web.mit.edu/newsoffice/2012/storm-of-the-decade-0213.html

·         Will hurricanes topple U.S. wind turbines? (New York Times Green Blog, 2/13/12) -
http://green.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/02/13/will-hurricanes-topple-u-s-wind-turbines/

·         A graveyard for ships explored: Archeologists study wrecks on Stellwagen Bank (Boston.com, 2/12/12) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2012/02/12/shipwreck_event_in_gloucester_tells_tales_of_those_lost_on_stellwagen_bank/

·         Shellfish plant in jeopardy again (Boston.com, 2/12/12) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2012/02/12/state_newburyport_shellfish_plant_could_close

·         Lauded advocate of rivers retires (Boston.com, 2/12/12) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2012/02/12/ipswich_river_watershed_association_seeks_new_leader_as_kerry_mackin_retires/

·         Cape Wind fight has cost both sides millions of dollars (Patriot Ledger, 2/11/12) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/topstories/x183257922/Cape-Wind-fight-has-cost-both-sides-millions-of-dollars

·         Wind farm project picks up speed amid renewed government interest (Vineyard Gazette, 2/10/12) -
http://www.mvgazette.com/article.php?33914

·         Tobey eyes DPA as I-4, C-2 hurdle (Gloucester Times, 2/10/12) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/local/x741512758/Tobey-eyes-DPA-as-I-4-C-2-hurdle

·         White House recognizes Brewster (Cape Cod Times, 2/10/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120210/NEWS/202100321/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Dennis cesspool battle reaches brink (Cape Cod Times, 2/10/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120210/NEWS/202100313/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Residents sound off against Fore River Bridge proposal at Weymouth meeting (Patriot Ledger, 2/10/12 ) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/features/x1341770674/Residents-sound-off-against-Fore-River-Bridge-proposal-at-Weymouth-meeting

·         Port to get $3.5M for jetty fix: Federal funds to target erosion at mouth of Merrimack (Daily News of Newburyport, 2/9/12) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/local/x1704534402/Port-to-get-3-5M-for-jetty-fix

·         Pilgrim power station seen as threat to herring (Cape Cod Times, 2/9/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120209/NEWS/202090325/-1/NEWS01

·         I-4, C-2 draws no bidders (Gloucester Times, 2/9/12) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/topstories/x980632694/I-4-C-2-draws-no-bidders

·         Ferry backers stress its impact (Boston.com, 2/9/12) -
http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2012/02/09/loss_of_south_shore_ferries_would_hurt_economy_local_officials_say/

·         Long-sought license OK'd for oyster farm (SouthCoastToday.com, 2/9/12) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120209/NEWS/202090346&cid=sitesearch

·         P'town erosion damage poses concerns (Cape Cod Times, 2/8/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120208/NEWS/202080344&cid=sitesearch

·         First evidence that shipping noise stresses whales (NewScientist, 2/8/12) -
http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn21451-first-evidence-that-shipping-noise-stresses-whales.html

·         Seashore stands firm on cottages (Cape Cod Times, 2/7/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120207/NEWS/202070330/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Bay coalition, UMD at odds over estuaries study (SouthCoastToday.com, 2/7/12) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120207/NEWS/202070333&cid=sitesearch

·         Dolphin strandings offer few clues (Cape Cod Times, 2/7/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120207/NEWS/202070329/-1/NEWSLETTER100

·         Ipswich River Watershed Assoc. head to retire (Wicked Local, 2/7/12) -
http://www.wickedlocal.com/ipswich/news/x392616393/Ipswich-River-Watershed-Assoc-head-to-retire#axzz1lqa7s7UK

·         Bubble curtains: Can they dampen offshore energy sound for whales? (National Geographic, 2/7/12) -
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/energy/2012/02/120207-bubble-curtains-to-protect-whales/

·         Shipwreck loaded with precious metal (Cape Cod Times, 2/1/12) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120201/NEWS/202010326/-1/NEWS01

Other Items of Interest

Gulf of Maine Council Award Nominations - The Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment is seeking nominations for its annual Visionary, Longard, Susan Snow-Cotter Leadership, Industry, and Sustainable Communities Awards<http://www.gulfofmaine.org/council/opportunities/#awards>. Visionary Awards will be presented to one individual and one organization in each state and province bordering the Gulf. The Longard Award will be presented to an outstanding volunteer within the Gulf watershed. The Susan Snow-Cotter Award will recognize a coastal management professional who exemplifies outstanding leadership or exceptional mentoring in the Gulf of Maine watershed. The Industry Award will go to a business that has shown leadership in efforts to improve the well-being of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem. New this year, the Sustainable Communities Award will go to a community of group within a community that exemplifies a sustainable environment and economy. Submit nomination forms by April 30 to info at gulfofmaine.org<mailto:info at gulfofmaine.org>.

Environmental Education Awards - EEA is now accepting applications for the 2012 Secretary Awards for Excellence in Energy and Environmental Education<http://www.mass.gov/eea/grants-and-tech-assistance/education-and-training/18th-annual-secretarys-award.html>. 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 29.

Outdoor Recreation Mobile App Contest - EEA invites smart phone mobile application developers to participate in the Get Outdoors Massachusetts Mobile Apps Contest<http://www.mass.gov/eea/mobileappcontest/> to create applications that help the public find outdoor recreation hot spots and natural resources in Massachusetts. Entrants will compete for prizes, including the opportunity to showcase their work to local technology executives. Submissions are due by March 30.

Stormwater Discharges from Construction Sites - EPA has issued a new permit for discharges of polluted stormwater from construction sites. The 2012 construction general permit<http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/cgp.cfm> is required under the Clean Water Act and replaces the existing 2008 permit, which expired on February 15. The 2012 permit update include steps to limit erosion, minimize pollution sources, provide natural buffers or their equivalent around surface waters, and further restrict discharges to areas impaired by previous pollution discharge.

National Ground Water Awareness Week - March 11-17 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 it-from proper management of household hazardous substances to septic system maintenance. For more information, check out the National Groundwater Awareness Week website<http://www.ngwa.org/Events-Education/awareness/Pages/default.aspx>.

2012 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 2012 fellowship will provide a $3,000 stipend as well as free housing. For details, including application information, see the fellowship application<http://www.nps.gov/caco/naturescience/loader.cfm?csModule=security/getfile&PageID=297501> (WORD, 820 KB). The application deadline is March 31.

EPA Smart Growth Awards - EPA is seeking applications for the 2012 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.

Nick Winter Memorial Scholarship Fund - The Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM) and the ASFPM Foundation will grant a $2,000 scholarship for the 2012-2013 academic year to a full-time college junior or senior or graduate student currently enrolled in a field related to floodplain/stormwater management. For details see, the ASFPM website<http://www.asfpmfoundation.org/winters.htm>. Applications are due by April 20.

Marine Art Contest - Massachusetts Marine Educators and Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary are seeking entries from students in grades K-12 for the 2012 Marine Art Contest. Winning entries will be used to publicize sanctuary 20th anniversary events throughout the New England region. The 2012 theme is Amazing Ocean Creatures of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. This year, students participating in the computer graphics division can focus on an alternative theme, 2012: 20th Anniversary of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. For details, see the contest web page<http://massmarineeducators.org/contests.php>. Entries are due by April 26.

Research Experience for Undergraduates - Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences is seeking applications from undergraduate students for the 2012 Research Experience for Undergraduates<http://www.bigelow.org/education/reu/> summer research program, Gulf of Maine and the World Ocean. Several students will be selected to receive hands-on research experience in marine microbial food webs, ocean biogeochemistry, optical oceanography, remote sensing, sensory biology, climate change, and fisheries oceanography. The application package will be available this month and applications will be accepted until March 15.

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, Director

Editor - Robin Lacey<mailto:robin.lacey at state.ma.us?subject=March%202012%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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