[SEMCO] February 2013 CZ-Mail

[CZ-Mail (ENV)]

CZ-MAIL

February 2013

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, 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 to 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=February%202013%20CZ-Mail>.



Massachusetts Ocean Management Plan Review

A provision of the Oceans Act of 2008 requires the review of the Massachusetts Ocean Management Plan at least once every 5 years. In January, on behalf of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), CZM initiated a plan review process. Work is underway on a review document that will summarize the requirements, measures, and commitments as established by the Oceans Act, the ocean planning process, and the Massachusetts Ocean Management Plan and report on the progress made on these items to date. The review will also include direct input from the Ocean Advisory Commission and the Science Advisory Council through an independent third party. SeaPlan (formerly the Massachusetts Ocean Partnership) will gather and synthesize views and feedback from members of these two groups, which were established by the Oceans Act to provide guidance to EEA during the planning process and through plan implementation. The review process will also incorporate a series of stakeholder meetings and an opportunity for public comment, expected in the late spring or early summer. The final plan<http://www.mass.gov/eea/ocean-coastal-management/mass-ocean-plan/final-massachusetts-ocean-management-plan.html> was released in December 2009, and while not all of the plan components have been fully tested and plan implementation is still ongoing, this review process will provide important context and insight that will inform future revisions and growth of the Commonwealth's ocean plan.



National Flood Insurance Program Reforms Result in Significant Changes

In July 2012, the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 was signed into law, which reauthorized the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) until 2017 and made important changes to the program that could result in premium changes for properties located in the floodplain. Specifically, the Act calls for premium rate structure changes for second homes, business properties, severe repetitive loss properties, or substantially improved/damaged properties and premium rate adjustments for properties located in flood zones to accurately reflect current risk of flood to such properties. The legislation is complex and should be reviewed in detail to determine how it may affect specific properties. For details, see the Association of State Floodplain Managers' summary of the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012<http://floods.org/ace-files/documentlibrary/2012_NFIP_Reform/2012_NFIP_Reform_Act_ASFPM_Summary_of_Contents.pdf> (PDF, 53 KB).



Maximize MORIS Mapping: Searching Available Data Layers

Did you know that you can search the more than 600 data layers available in MORIS-the Massachusetts Ocean Resource Information System-to quickly locate layers of interest? For example, if you're interested in viewing seafloor data from Boston Harbor, type "Boston Harbor" in the "Search data layers" box (in the upper right-hand corner at the top of the "Available Data Layers" window). MORIS searches the data layer names and lists all the layers with "Boston Harbor" in their titles, such as "Bathymetry: Boston Harbor and Approaches" and "Boston Harbor Water Taxi Stops." Click any layer and it will be drawn on the map and become the first listing in the "Active Data Layers" window. When you click on it, the layer will open in its folder. For example, if you click on "Bathymetry: Boston Harbor and Approaches," the "Seafloor" folder will open and you can scroll through the available seafloor datasets and to find other layers of interest. Visit the MORIS<http://www.mass.gov/czm/mapping/index.htm> website to begin searching and discovering the various data layers available in CZM's online mapping tool.



CZ-Tip - When the Weather Outside Is Frightful, Here's Where to Track the Storm

Over the last 12 months, the Massachusetts coast has been hit by some serious northeasters<http://www.weather.com/encyclopedia/winter/noreast.html> (often spelled "nor'easters"): the June Northeaster<http://boston.cbslocal.com/2012/06/04/weather-forecast-continued-coastal-flooding-likely-from-june-noreaster/>, the November Northeaster<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/November_2012_nor'easter> (on the heels of Hurricane Sandy), and the December North American Blizzard, also known as Winter Storm Freyr<http://www.weather.com/news/weather-winter/winter-storm-freyr-20121228>. Northeasters are named for their predominant winds, which come from the northeast. Although they can occur all year long, October through April is prime northeaster season, when cold arctic air from the north combines with warm, moist air from the south and forms strong areas of low pressure. The resulting storms can pack a real punch to the shoreline, with battering waves, storm surges, and winds that sometimes reach hurricane force. And don't forget the precipitation-rain, sleet, freezing rain, snow, or, sometimes, all of it together! For information on how to track these storms and stay safe this winter, see CZ-Tip - Tracking Northeasters and Staying Safe in the Storm<http://www.mass.gov/czm/tips/noreaster.htm>.



Boston Harbor Habitat Coalition

In December, representatives from the Massachusetts Bays Program, Urban Harbors Institute at UMass Boston, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and a dozen other harbor-related agencies and organizations gathered in Boston for a meeting of the Boston Harbor Habitat Coalition<http://www.mass.gov/envir/massbays/bhha_home.htm#who>. About 30 individuals were on hand to discuss the mission and purpose of the Coalition, whose primary goals include raising awareness of the rich natural resources of Boston Harbor and providing technical assistance to potential partners for harbor restoration and protection projects. The group formed three subcommittees to focus on outreach, policy, and technical aspects of the Coalition and the recently released Boston Harbor Habitat Atlas<http://www.mass.gov/envir/massbays/bhha_home.htm>. For more information or to get involved in these subcommittees, contact Lisa Engler at lisa.engler at state.ma.us<mailto:lisa.engler at state.ma.us>.



CZM Staff and People

Pam DiBona Named New Director of the Massachusetts Bays Program - In January, the Massachusetts Bays National Estuary Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/mass-bays-program/> (MBP) welcomed Pam DiBona as its new Director. Pam brings very strong skills and credentials, with extensive experience in the public, nonprofit, and private sectors. In her previous position at the New England Aquarium, Pam coordinated the New England Ocean Science Education Collaborative-developing several multi-partner coastal programs, securing grant funds to carry them out, and serving as project manager-and was manager of the Center for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence - New England. Prior to that, Pam worked as Chief of Staff for the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), and at the Environmental League of Massachusetts, she held roles as Vice President for Policy and as Legislative Director. In addition to work with the Charles River Watershed Association, Pam also served in positions with environmental consulting and communications firms. Please join CZM and MBP in welcoming Pam and also in thanking and recognizing Lisa Berry Engler for her exceptional service as Acting Director.



Grants/Funding/Proposal Opportunities

FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grants - The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and 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 funding is available to all communities in the Commonwealth that meet the sub-applicant and project eligibility requirements. These competitive grants 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. DCR and MEMA will provide technical assistance to potential applicants upon request. For complete grant details, see the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Guidance<http://www.mass.gov/eopss/docs/mema/grants/dr-4051-hmgp-grants-available-memo-dec-2012.pdf> (PDF, 852 KB). Full applications are due by March 15.



Five Star Restoration Grants - The Five Star Restoration Program is seeking applications for financial assistance to support community-based wetland, riparian, and coastal habitat restoration projects that integrate meaningful education and produce measurable results. For details, see the Five Star Restoration Program website<http://www.nfwf.org/Pages/fivestar/home.aspx>. Applications are due by February 7.



Fund Development Plan - The Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment is seeking the services of a professional contractor/consultant to help develop a Fund Development Plan. The consultant will provide advice, professional support, and insight to the Council's Fund Development Group, and will, with the guidance of the Group, write a solid strategy with ready-to-implement recommendations. For details, see the Request for Responses<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001knjDLrBnU5aIdq9fLuSdrZ_CMgnbQfzNJbMJgPCWpMGl573ISZF8iq3CVN3p0GU4qBBe1mUMnjYyjn5bx_Qe_7canxwdjXODAtk7SspxA99kaZkEhE8CquXv_2klgQ0nLkZoo-ie0GXAvwmeqlpsUOlii5MAFTRWd5ht_WDqcpRBX7wgs5tsSZfXwtEeGN9m> (Word, 107 KB). Applications are due by February 8.



Ocean Planning in New England - The Northeast Regional Ocean Council is seeking proposals for a contractor to provide communications support for regional ocean planning in New England. "Communications support" is intended to include on-line and traditional forms of communications, such as the NROC website<http://www.northeastoceancouncil.org> and potentially other electronic and print media (i.e., email, social media, and fact sheets). For details see the Request for Proposals<http://northeastoceancouncil.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Communications-support-RFP.pdf> (PDF, 400 KB), which are due by February 8.



Estuary Habitat Restoration Funding - On behalf of the Estuary Habitat Restoration Council, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is soliciting proposals for estuary habitat restoration projects. Eligible projects must provide ecosystem benefits, have scientific merit, and be technically feasible, able to adapt to the impacts associated with climate change, and cost-effective. Projects selected for funding will be implemented through either a cost-share agreement with USACE or a cooperative agreement with USACE. All awards are subject to availability of funds. For more information and to apply, see the Grants.gov website<http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=1PL1Q2vWNJwyJgdN4C7JMTcMCQnmJPhnQ2hdHJcH4Z4LkGKL8rD0!-2129049045?oppId=209633&mode=VIEW>. Applications are due by February 12.



Coastal and Marine Habitat Restoration - The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Restoration Center is seeking applications for coastal and marine habitat restoration projects<http://www.habitat.noaa.gov/funding/coastalrestoration.html> that use a habitat-based approach to foster species recovery and increase fish production, with a focus on projects that will aid in recovering listed species and rebuilding sustainable fish populations or their prey. Projects will primarily be funded through cooperative agreements. Applications are due by February 19.



Marine-Related Research Projects - The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Sea Grant College Program is soliciting preliminary proposals for marine-related research projects to start February 1, 2014. This program offers competitive funding to university-based, Massachusetts scientists who are eligible for principal investigator status at their home institutions. Proposals should address one of the four focus areas identified in the MIT Sea Grant Strategic Plan<https://seagrant.mit.edu/StratNarrative.pdf> (PDF, 162 KB). Projects are funded for two years at a maximum of $100,000 per year with a 50% match requirement. In addition, this year MIT will also consider six-year Focused Research Proposals<http://seagrant.mit.edu/focused_proposals.php>. For more information and to register to submit a pre-proposal, see the MIT website<http://seagrant.mit.edu/RFP.php>. Preliminary proposals are due by February 22.



Social Science Research Proposals - The Northeast Regional Sea Grant Consortium (New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, MIT, Woods Hole, New Hampshire, and Maine) is seeking social science research proposals for 2014. A total of $350,000 is available for social science research proposals that have relevance to the Gulf of Maine and Greater New York Bight regions (from the Canadian Border to Cape May, New Jersey). For more information, see the Request for Proposals<http://seagrant.mit.edu/Regional_RFP_FY2014.pdf> (PDF, 124 KB). Pre-proposals are due by February 22.



Woods Hole Sea Grant Proposals - The Woods Hole Sea Grant Program is seeking proposals under the 2014-2016 Omnibus Request for Proposals<http://www.whoi.edu/fileserver.do?id=144204&pt=2&p=88928> (PDF, 105 KB). The theme areas for 2014-2016 are healthy coastal ecosystems, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, resilient communities and economies, and environmental literacy and workforce development, however, pre-proposals representing other areas will be considered. On February 15 at 2:00 p.m., an informational meeting will be held in the Redfield Auditorium, 45 Water Street, Woods Hole. Pre-proposals are due by February 22.



Marine Debris Grants - NOAA's Marine Debris Program is seeking grant proposals for national and regional projects that focus on marine debris prevention, education, and outreach activities. For more information, see the Grants.gov website<http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=K1RGRCdT2CkwGkhvDBTGSxR53lznBQg4MTZFGPTfvv2JVsTx77hK!1423013708?oppId=217634&mode=VIEW>. Proposals are due by February 28.



Smart Growth Implementation Assistance Program - EPA is seeking applications for the Smart Growth Implementation Assistance Program<http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/sgia.htm> to provide free technical assistance to communities, regions, or states that want to incorporate smart growth techniques into their future development. Applications are due by March 1.



NOAA Special Project and Program Funding - NOAA is seeking proposals for its annual Broad Agency Announcement to fund special projects and programs associated with the NOAA's strategic plan and mission goals. This announcement is a mechanism to encourage research, technical projects, or sponsorships (conferences, newsletters) that are not normally funded through competitive discretionary programs. For more information, see the Grants.gov website<http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=YcKWQtLVs267vw0367J0lNST1SSb2dh31tsqc76SPpVGJhL0yvhz!-861966415?oppId=132454&mode=VIEW>. Proposals will be accepted on a rolling basis until September 30.



Products/Publications

Climate Change Indicators Report - EPA has released Climate Change Indicators in the United States, 2012<http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/science/indicators/download.html>, an update to the initial 2010 indicators report that contains information about 26 key indicators of climate change in the United States. The 2012 report also highlights several public health and environmental impacts that are happening today.



Atlantic Offshore Wind Energy - The U.S. National Wildlife Federation and more than 45 partner organizations have released The Turning Point for Atlantic Offshore Wind Energy: Time for Action to Create Jobs, Reduce Pollution, Protect Wildlife, and Secure America's Energy Future<http://www.nwf.org/News-and-Magazines/Media-Center/Reports/Archive/2012/09-13-12-The-Turning-Point-for-Atlantic-Offshore-Wind-Energy.aspx>, a report that details opportunities for offshore wind along the U.S. Atlantic coast.



Cape Cod Bay Monitoring Report - The Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies' Cape Cod Bay Monitoring Program (CCBMP) has released How Is Our Bay? Five Years of Environmental Monitoring of Cape Cod Bay<http://www.coastalstudies.org/images/HowsOurBay-WEBFINAL-refedit-1.pdf> (PDF, 1.8 MB), a technical report that presents the results of analyses of five years of data on water quality collected at 54 stations throughout the Cape Cod Bay, four years of eelgrass habitat studies at five locations, four years of monitoring in five harbors for the presence of marine invasive species, and a summary of a preliminary assessment for the presence of four pharmaceutical compounds at five sampling locations in Cape Cod Bay. The results show that overall, there is a pattern of deteriorating conditions each year in the summer months in the inshore and nearshore stations. Also, the CCBMP just completed the seventh field season and these data and an analysis of all the data from 2006-2012 will be available in the spring.



Wetlands Guides - The Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program has released The Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program Pocket Guide to Delineating Wetlands<http://buzzardsbay.org/delineation/bbnep_pocket_guide_2012.pdf> (PDF, 400 KB) and The Pocket Guide to Common Ferns for Delineating Bordering Vegetated Wetlands in Massachusetts 2012<http://www.buzzardsbay.org/delineation/bbnep_fern_guide.pdf> (PDF, 5.5 MB). These pocket guides were developed to assist conservation commissions and citizens with wetland delineation.



Coastal States' Adaptation Initiatives - The Lincoln Institute of Land Policy has released Coastal States' Adaptation Initiatives: Sea Level Rise and Municipal Engagement<http://www.lincolninst.edu/pubs/2183_Coastal-States--Climate-Adaptation-Initiatives--Sea-Level-Rise-and-Municipal-Engagement>, a paper that explores how states and municipalities interact to address sea level rise, providing an overview of states' practices, reasons for different levels of action, the needs of municipalities, and a set of recommendations for states to support municipalities.



Climate Ready Estuaries Progress Report - EPA has released the Climate Ready Estuaries 2012 Progress Report<http://water.epa.gov/type/oceb/cre/upload/CRE_2012Report_122612a.pdf> (PDF, 5.5 MB). The Climate Ready Estuaries program<http://www.epa.gov/cre/> works with National Estuary Programs, including the Massachusetts Bays and Buzzards Bay National Estuary Programs, and other coastal managers to assess climate change vulnerabilities, develop and implement adaptation strategies, engage and educate stakeholders, and share the lessons learned with other coastal managers. This document highlights the projects program partners around the United States have undertaken to help watersheds and communities adapt to some of the pressing challenges that are emerging due to climate change.



Ebb & Flow - The December 2012 issue of Ebb & Flow<http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/der/newsletters/ebbflow14/ebbflow14.htm>, the eNewsletter of the Department of Fish and Game's Division of Ecological Restoration, features a story on detecting aquatic responses to climate change, provides updates on river and coastal restoration projects, and includes sections on grants, resources, and events.



Hazard-Resilient Coastal and Waterfront Smart Growth - NOAA and EPA have released Achieving Hazard-Resilient Coastal & Waterfront Smart Growth<http://coastalsmartgrowth.noaa.gov/resilience.html>, a report that presents ideas on research, tools, services, and approaches that communities can use to integrate smart growth and hazard mitigation strategies on the coast.



Climate Adaptation in the United States - The October 2012 issue of the journal, Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies for Global Change, includes "A Comprehensive Review of Climate Adaptation in the United States: More than Before, but Less than Needed<http://www.springerlink.com/content/k3v613601198471l/>." This paper examines adaptation activities of federal, tribal, state, and local governments and the private sector in the United States. The purpose of the review was to understand the types of activities underway, barriers to adaptation, and research, development, and deployment needs. While substantial adaptation planning is occurring, few measures have been implemented, even fewer have been evaluated, and most adaptation actions to date appear to be incremental changes, not the transformational changes that may be needed.



Social Vulnerability and Resilience - The United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security has released Addressing Loss and Damage in the Context of Social Vulnerability and Resilience<http://www.ehs.unu.edu/file/get/10570.pdf> (PDF, 3.4 MB), a report that looks at how societies respond to climate change-induced hazards and disasters and how policy and science frameworks can work toward addressing loss and risk. Recommendations include considering loss and damage as part of a system where climate change shapes social processes, including social vulnerability and resilience in loss discussions, and realizing the solutions to vulnerability can also be found in climate-social interactions.



Stellwagen Bank E-Notes - The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary has released the November/December 2012 edition of Stellwagen Bank E-Notes<http://stellwagen.noaa.gov/library/pdfs/enotes_dec2012.pdf> (PDF, 952 KB), a newsletter that provides the latest information about sanctuary research, education, and resource conservation. This issue includes articles on Bermuda's new marine mammal sanctuary, ocean acidification, and other sanctuary news and notes.



Economic Advantages of Smart Growth - EPA's Smart Growth Program has released Smart Growth and Economic Success<http://lists.icfwebservices.com/t/64020/734494/4675/4/>, a report for developers, businesses, local government, and other groups on the economic advantages of smart growth development. The report demonstrates that smart growth development is attractive to developers, investors, local governments, and communities because it offers new opportunities for economic growth that is also environmentally sustainable.



Gulf of Maine Times - The December 2012 edition of the Gulf of Maine Times<http://www.gulfofmaine.org/gomt/> includes links to articles on the Maine lobster fishery, fish quota cuts, effects of warm water in the Gulf of Maine, and other Gulf of Maine news.



Atlantic CoastWatch Newsletter - The December 2012 issue of Atlantic CoastWatch<http://www.atlanticcoastwatch.org/december201.pdf> (PDF, 540 KB), the bimonthly newsletter from the Sustainable Development Institute that provides news and information about the Atlantic coasts of Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean, includes articles on Hurricane Sandy, fracking, and other Atlantic coast news.



Right Whale News - The December 2012 issue of Right Whale News<http://www.narwc.org/pdf/rwn/rwdec12.pdf> (PDF, 935 KB), the quarterly newsletter on conservation and recovery of the North Atlantic right whale and its habitats, features articles on the 2011 North Atlantic right whale population estimate, the right whale DNA bank and database, and other right whale news.



Marine Ecosystems and Management Information Service - The December 2012/January 2013 edition of Marine Ecosystems and Management<http://depts.washington.edu/meam/MEAM28.html>, the bimonthly information service on marine ecosystem-based management (EBM) from the University of Washington School of Marine Affairs, features articles on a links between urban and marine ecosystems, marine spatial planning updates, and other notes and news.



Natural Hazards Observer - The January 2013 issue of the Natural Hazards Observer<http://www.colorado.edu/hazards/o/>, the bimonthly periodical of the Natural Hazards Center in Boulder, Colorado, features articles on Hurricane Sandy, climate change, disaster risk reduction, and other natural hazards news and information.



Marine Protected Area Newsletter - The January-February 2013 issue of MPA News<http://depts.washington.edu/mpanews/MPA130.htm> features articles on a Marine Protected Area (MPA) wish list for the new year, MPAs in Puget Sound, and other MPA news and notes.



Web-Based Resources

Northeast Regional Ocean Council - The Northeast Regional Ocean Council<http://www.northeastoceancouncil.org> (NROC) has a new website that provides information about NROC's initiatives in ocean planning, coastal hazards resilience, and coastal and ocean health. The site also offers the latest NROC news, a calendar of events, and information about the Northeast Regional Planning Body.



Northeast Indicators Discussion Forum - The Gulf of Maine Council, in collaboration with many regional organizations, is hosting the Northeast and Maritimes Community of Practice Forum<http://www.gulfofmaine.org/new-site/community-of-practice-forum/>-an online forum that enables the region's indicator and monitoring program staff to interact, learn together, and build working relationships. The forum is divided into three sections: data information and management, communication, and other issues.



Ocean Surface Topography from Space - The National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Ocean Surface Topography from Space website<http://sealevel.jpl.nasa.gov/> provides observations of the Earth's vast oceans on a global scale and monitors critical changes in ocean currents and heat storage. This allows NASA to understand and foresee the effects of the changing oceans on the climate and on catastrophic climate events such as El Niño and La Niña.



Nutrient Pollution Impacts to Recreation - EPA has released The Choice Is Yours: Clean or Green Water<http://bit.ly/11yjpcd>, a short video to illustrate the potential impacts of nutrient pollution on recreation. Nutrient pollution<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vCicSNnKUvM> is one of the nation's most widespread and costly environmental problems. Excess nitrogen and phosphorus from farm and lawn fertilizer, pet and livestock waste, roads and houses, faulty septic systems, and treated sewage can turn waters green with slime and pollute waters for swimming, boating, and fishing.



Storm Water Management Model - EPA's Storm Water Management Model<http://www.epa.gov/athens/wwqtsc/html/swmm.html> is a dynamic rainfall-runoff simulation model used for single event or long-term (continuous) simulation of runoff quantity and quality from primarily urban areas



Digital Coast Redesign - NOAA's Coastal Services Center has redesigned the Digital Coast<http://www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/> to make it easier to use. The Digital Coast provides data, tools, and training coastal communities to address coastal issues. A wide range of resources are available, from LIDAR data to guidance for local inundation mapping. Recent entries on the site's GeoZone blog provide information about and links to useful geospatial data related to recovery from Hurricane Sandy.



Ocean Today - NOAA's Ocean Today website<http://oceantoday.noaa.gov/welcome.html> provides access to current and archived videos from the Ocean Today kiosk exhibit at the Sant Ocean Hall in the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Natural History. Along with a wealth of general ocean info, visitors will find hazard-specific offerings on topics such as tsunami tracking, sea level rise, and hurricane survival. Recently added short films include Animals of the Ice<http://oceantoday.noaa.gov/oceanlife.html> and Know Your Ocean<http://oceantoday.noaa.gov/knowyourocean/>.



Marine Regions - The new Marine Regions website<http://www.marineregions.org> provides an online standard list of georeferenced marine place names, areas, regions, and marine and maritime boundaries. It is an integration of the VLIMAR Gazetteer (a database with geographic [mainly marine] names, such as seas, sandbanks, seamounts, ridges, bays, or even standard sampling stations used in marine research) and the VLIZ Maritime Boundaries Geodatabase (a database that represents the Exclusive Economic Zone [EEZ] of the world).



Public Comment

Please note: All official CZM requests for public comment are published in the Public Notices section of the Environmental Monitor<http://www.env.state.ma.us/mepa/emonitor.aspx>, the bi-weekly publication from the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) office. Available opportunities for public comment from other agencies and organizations are provided below:



Proposed Flood Elevation Determinations: Nantucket, Marion, Mattapoisett, and Wareham - FEMA is seeking comments on the proposed Base Flood Elevations (BFEs) for the following coastal communities: Nantucket, Marion, Mattapoisett, and Wareham. The BFEs are the basis for the floodplain management measures that a community must adopt to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program. The preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for the proposed BFEs are available at each community's town hall. Submit comments, identified by Docket No. FEMA-B-1275, by March 11 to Luis Rodriguez at Luis.Rodriguez3 at fema.dhs.gov<mailto:Luis.Rodriguez3 at fema.dhs.gov>.



Proposed Flood Elevation Determinations: New Bedford, Fairhaven, Quincy, and Milton - FEMA is also seeking comments on the proposed BFEs for the following coastal communities: New Bedford, Fairhaven, Quincy, and Milton. The preliminary FIRMs for the proposed BFEs are available at each community's town hall. Submit comments, identified by Docket No. FEMA-B-1283, by April 29 to Luis Rodriguez at Luis.Rodriguez3 at fema.dhs.gov<mailto:Luis.Rodriguez3 at fema.dhs.gov>.



Draft Third National Climate Assessment Report - The National Climate Assessment Development and Advisory Committee, the federal advisory committee for the National Climate Assessment, is seeking comments on the draft of the Third National Climate Assessment Report<http://ncadac.globalchange.gov/>. Comments are due by April 12.



Job Postings

MACC Executive Director - The Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions (MACC) is seeking applicants for Executive Director<https://maccweb.org/documents/EDjobDescription.pdf> (PDF, 85 KB). The mission of MACC is to protect Massachusetts natural resources by supporting Conservation Commissions through education and advocacy. MACC supports science-based laws and regulations that protect wetlands, water resources, open space, and other natural resources. The Executive Director is the Chief Executive Officer and is responsible for promoting and implementing MACC's Strategic Plan. The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and will work with a staff of two full-time and two part-time employees. Applications are due by February 15.



Calendar

Sea Tots - Registration is now open for the winter/spring Sea Tots Program<http://www.northeastern.edu/marinescience/visiting_the_msc/outreach/childhood.html>, a series of field-based learning experiences for preschool families with children ages 3-6 held at the Northeastern University Marine Science Center. The winter/spring session features eight classes held on Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., beginning on February 5.



Water Watch Lecture Series - On Wednesdays through April 3, the North and South Ricers Watershed Association will hold a Water Watch Lecture Series<http://www.nsrwa.org/Page.45.html> at the South Shore Natural Science Center<http://www.ssnsc.org/>. On February 6 at 7:00 p.m., Brown University geologist Ralph Milliken will present Was There Water on Mars? News from the Mars Rover. Lectures are free and open to the public.



Marine Science Lectures - In 2013, the Northeastern University Marine Science Center<http://www.northeastern.edu/marinescience/events.html> is continuing its series of monthly marine science lectures through March. On February 12, Bill Haney, President and Founder of BluHomes, Inc., will present the Behind the Lens: Experiences in Environmental Film-Making. On March 19, Dr. Gwilym Jones, Marine Science Center, Northeastern University, will present What's Ailing Marine Mammals: Diseases and Human Impacts. These lectures are free and open to the public. Lectures are at 7:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served at 6:30 p.m.



Boating Safety Course - From February 25 through May 28, the Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) will offer Boat Massachusetts<http://www.mass.gov/eea/grants-and-tech-assistance/enforcement/environmental-police/boat-and-recreation-vehicle-safety-bureau/boating-safety-course-schedule-2012-generic.html>, 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.).



Coastal Summit - From February 26-28, the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association will hold the 2013 Coastal Summit<http://www.asbpa.org/conferences/sum_13.htm> in Washington, DC, to bring those involved in beach preservation to Washington to share concerns over future management of the nation's beaches and shores. Elected officials, scientists, engineers, planners, government officials, and interested beach users will get an in-depth look at critical issues affecting beach preservation and management and have direct communication with key decision makers.



Salem Sound Coastwatch Lecture Series - Through April, Salem Sound Coastwatch will hold free monthly Underwater in Salem Sound lectures<http://salemsound.org/events.html> at Marblehead's Abbot Public Library at 7:00 p.m. on the last Wednesday of each month. On February 27, Eelgrass in Salem Sound will be presented by marine biologist, Tay Evans. On March 27, Salt Marshes Under Siege will be presented by Dr. Robert Buchsbaum, Mass Audubon's Conservation Scientist. On April 24, Making a Living On and In the Water will be presented by lobsterman Jay Michaud and historian and diver Ray Bates.



Ecological Landscaping Conference - From February 27-28, the Ecological Landscaping Association will present the 19th annual Conference & Eco-Marketplace<http://www.ecolandscaping.org/> in Springfield. The 2013 conference, Sustainable Habitats: Making Ecological Connections, will feature seminars and workshops presented by practitioners, writers, and educators in the fields of landscaping, gardening, eco-design solutions, and more.



Climate Leadership Conference - From February 27-March1, the Climate Leadership Conference<http://www.climateleadershipconference.org/>, Connecting People, Innovation, and Opportunity, will be held in Washington, DC. This conference is dedicated to professionals addressing global climate change through policy, innovation, and business solutions.



Fish Passage Conference-Call for Abstracts - From June 25-27, the International Conference on Engineering & Ecohydrology for Fish Passage<http://www.fishpassageconference.com/> will be held at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Fish Passage 2013 is a national forum for researchers and practitioners to exchange findings and experiences on fish passage issues. This is a three-day conference with concurrent sessions in engineering, biology, management, and social issues. Submit abstracts by March 1 on the conference website<http://fishpassage.umass.edu/?q=content/abstract-submission>.



MACC Conference - On March 2, the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions will hold the 2013 MACC Annual Environmental Conference<http://www.maccweb.org/edu_aec.html> in Worcester. Join more than 1,000 Conservation Commissioners, local officials, state and federal officials, consultants, and attorneys for the largest regular environmental conference in New England.



MEES Conference - On March 6, the Massachusetts Environmental Education Society (MEES) will hold its 2013 conference<http://massmees.org/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1>, Strengthening Communities: Branching Out, Reaching In, at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester. Join fellow environmental educators and others who are dedicated to providing experiences that educate, excite, and commit all generations to conserve the environment and help them become responsible stewards.



Solutions to Nitrogen Pollution - On March 6, the Buzzards Bay Coalition will kick off its free Decision Maker Workshop Series<http://www.savebuzzardsbay.org/DecisionMakers> at the Coalition headquarters in New Bedford. This three-part workshop series is focused on nitrogen pollution and will include site visits, lectures, and discussions. These workshops provide real-world solutions for decision makers in government, business, and agriculture whose daily decisions affect the health of Buzzards Bay and the local environment.



Cape Cod Natural History Conference - On March 9, the MassAudubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary will hold the 18th 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.



Sea Rovers Clinic - From March 9-10, the Boston Sea Rovers will hold the 2013 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 2013 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.



Environmental Biologist Conference - From March 20-22, the New England Association of Environmental Biologists (NEAEB) will hold its 37th annual meeting in Lake Placid, New York. NEAEB 2013<http://www.epa.gov/region1/neaeb2013/> is a three-day conference that provides a forum for presenting current work and research on pressing environmental issues relevant to the region.



Benthic Ecology Meeting - From March 20-23, the 42nd annual Benthic Ecology Meeting<http://ceps.georgiasouthern.edu/conted/beminfo.html> will be held in Savannah, Georgia. This meeting is one of the largest scientific meetings for marine biologists in the United States and 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.



Land Conservation Conference - On March 23, The Trustees of Reservations, the Putnam Conservation Institute, and the Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition will hold the 23rd Massachusetts Land Conservation Conference<http://www.thetrustees.org/things-to-do/special-events/massachusetts-land-conservation-conference/>, What Is a Green Future Worth? From Rural Landscapes to City Parks, 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.



Forum on Socioeconomic Research in Coastal Systems - From March 24-26, the Center for Natural Resource Economics and Policy will hold the 4th National Forum on Socioeconomic Research in Coastal Systems<http://www.cnrep.lsu.edu/>: Challenges of Natural Resource Economics & Policy in New Orleans, Louisiana. This triennial forum focuses on the opportunities and challenges of socioeconomic research in the development and evaluation of coastal resource restoration and management.



National Hurricane Conference - On March 25-28, the 2013 National Hurricane Conference<http://colorado.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b72140489b80a4574373938a1&id=98028af414&e=4051a4f944> will be held in New Orleans, Louisiana. The primary goal of this conference is to improve hurricane preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation in order to save lives and property in the United States and the tropical islands of the Caribbean and Pacific. In addition, the conference serves as a national forum for federal, state, and local officials to exchange ideas and recommend new policies to improve emergency management.



National Working Waterfronts and Waterways Symposium - From March 25-28, the National Working Waterfronts & Waterways Symposium<http://depts.washington.edu/uwconf/workingwaterfronts/index.html> will be held in Tacoma, Washington. This third national symposium will focus on issues faced by working waterfronts throughout the United States. Attendees will include local, regional, tribal, and national decision-makers; members of the port, commercial fishing, marine, and tourism industries; developers and property owners; business owners; community planners; and waterfront advocates.



Coastal Geotools 2013 - From March 25-28, Coastal Geotools 2013<http://geotools.csc.noaa.gov/default.aspx> will be held in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This bi-annual conference focuses on the technical information needs of the nation's coastal programs. The 2013 conference will focus on building the Digital Coast, a web platform that provides access to geospatial data, tools, and technical training.



Climate Ready Water Utilities Webinar Series - Through April, EPA's Climate Ready Water Utilities (CRWU) initiative will hold a series of twice-monthly webinars<http://water.epa.gov/infrastructure/watersecurity/climate/index.cfm> on CRWU tools and resources for the water sector, which includes drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater utilities. These 45-60 minute webinars will assist the water sector in developing a better understanding of climate change, managing impacts, and creating adaptation strategies. Webinar topics include climate change readiness and an introduction to climate science for the water sector, followed by more in depth discussions of CRWU tools. Also, each webinar will feature case studies from utilities that have used CRWU tools.



Wednesday Walks - On Wednesdays through February, 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=20130201&pc_username=&pc_category=&pc_topic=>.



Winter Talks in Harwich - This winter, the Harwich Conservation Trust will host a series of free winter talks-all open to the public. For details, see the Trust's website<http://harwichconservationtrust.org/winter-talks-2013/>.



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

·         Remediation of Contaminated Sediments Conference - From February 4-7, the 7th International Conference on Remediation of Contaminated Sediments<http://www.battelle.org/conferences/sediments/> will be held in Dallas, Texas. The conference will address the challenges of combining basic research, new characterization and assessment methodologies, innovative engineering, and good management practices to address the concerns surrounding contaminated sediments.

·         Smart Growth Conference - From February 7-9, the 12th annual New Partners for Smart Growth Conference<http://www.newpartners.org>, Building Safe, Healthy, Equitable, and Prosperous Communities, will be held in Kansas City, Missouri. The three-day conference program includes more than 90 breakouts, workshops, and trainings and will feature cutting-edge policies and programs, projects, and best practices, as well as strategies and implementation tools that address the challenges of implementing smart growth development principles.

·         Blue Lobster Bowl - On February 9, MIT's Sea Grant Program will hold the 16th annual Blue Lobster Bowl<http://seagrant.mit.edu/blb.php>-one of 25 contests conducted around the nation each year as part of the National Ocean Sciences Bowl. Up to 24 teams of high school students from across the state will participate in this full-day competition where teams are quizzed on their knowledge of ocean science subjects, including chemistry, biology, engineering, history, ecology, climate change, and weather.

·         Erosion Control Conference - From February 10-13, the International Erosion Control Association's Annual Conference<http://www.ieca.org/conference/annual/ec.asp>, Environmental Connection, will be held in San Diego, California. This conference is designed as an educational event for the erosion, sediment control, and stormwater industry. There will be full- and half-day training courses with topic-focused technical sessions and a large vendor exposition.

·         International LiDAR Mapping Forum - From February 11-13, the 2013 International LiDAR Mapping Forum<http://www.lidarmap.org/conference> will be held in Denver, Colorado. This three-day technical conference is focused on airborne and bathymetric LIDAR, with a particular emphasis on mobile mapping systems

·         National Conference on Beach Preservation - On February 13-15, the 26th annual National Conference on Beach Preservation Technology<http://www.fsbpa.com/techconference.htm> will be held in Jacksonville, Florida. The conference will present the latest beach preservation technology with a goal to provide a technological transfer to coastal decision makers.



Other Items of Interest

Environmental Education Awards - The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) is now accepting applications for the 2013 Secretary Awards for Excellence in Energy and Environmental Education<http://www.mass.gov/eea/grants-and-tech-assistance/education-and-training/energy-and-environmental-awards.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://www.mass.gov/eea/grants-and-tech-assistance/education-and-training/19th-annual-secretarys-award.html>. Applications are due by March 22.



Science Fellowship for Journalists - The Metcalf Institute for Marine & Environmental Reporting is accepting applications for the 15th Annual Science Immersion Workshop for Journalists: Global Change in Coastal Ecosystems<http://metcalfinstitute.org/2012/12/metcalf-institute-announces-2013-fellowship-opportunities-for-journalists/>. The workshop runs from June 9 through June 14 at the University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography in Narragansett, Rhode Island. The Metcalf Workshop is a unique professional development experience that gives journalists an opportunity to explore and understand the effects of global change in coastal ecosystems. Applications are due by February 25.



Ocean Exploration Trust Opportunities -The Ocean Exploration Trust is seeking applications from educators and high school juniors and seniors who are interested in joining Dr. Robert Ballard and his Corps of Exploration at sea this summer and fall. The Educator at Sea Science Communications Fellowship<http://www.oceanexplorationtrust.com/opportunities.htm#!educators-at-sea/cb0> seeks teachers for 2-4 week cruises working aboard E/V Nautilus and other oceanographic research vessels as communicators of the expedition, sharing discoveries with global audiences on shore. The Honors Research Program<http://www.oceanexplorationtrust.com/opportunities.htm#!honors-research-program/ca78> seeks rising high school seniors (junior year completed by summer of 2013) to participate in a seven-week summer program from July 6 through August 10. For details, see the Ocean Exploration Trust website<http://www.oceanexplorationtrust.com/opportunities.htm#!opportunities/cee5>. Applications are due March 1.



Science Without Borders Challenge - The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation is seeking entries for the Science Without Borders Challenge<http://www.livingoceansfoundation.org/SWBChallenge>. Students, ages 14-19, are asked to submit videos (maximum of five minutes) that discuss how vital oceans are to human existence. Entries are due by April 2.



Ocean Awareness Essay Contest - The From the Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Essay Contest<http://www.fromthebowseat.org/contest/index.php> promotes ocean stewardship among high school students and provides cash prizes for winning essays. This year's theme, Sea Animals Big and Small, focuses on current threats to the marine life of the Gulf of Maine. Entries are due by June 15.



Ocean Science Field Trip Opportunities - In 2013, the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) will host class field trips<http://www.zephyrmarine.net> where students will go on a hands-on scientific cruise to Vineyard Sound and tour some of the laboratory facilities at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.



Summer Course at Shoals Marine Laboratory - The Shoals Marine Laboratory (SML) on Appledore Island, Isles of Shoals, Maine offers several two-week summer courses<http://www.sml.cornell.edu/sml_students_creditcourses.html> in various marine and ocean oriented topics.



Research Experience for Undergraduates - Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences is seeking applications from undergraduate students for the 2013 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. Applications will be accepted until March 1.



Salem Sound Photo Contest - Salem Sound Coastwatch is seeking entries for the Salem Sound - A Sense of Place photo contest<http://www.salemsound.org/photoContest.html>. Entries to this year-long contest should capture the beauty, essence, nature, and uses of the Salem Sound and its watershed communities of Beverly, Danvers, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Marblehead, Peabody, and Salem in each of the four seasons. All entries are due by March 1.



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. 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 March 30 through the Council website<http://www.gulfofmaine.org/upload/>.



Marine Policy Fellowships - The NOAA Sea Grant College Program is accepting applications for the 2013 Dean John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship Program<http://www.seagrant.noaa.gov/knauss/>. This one-year program aims to provide a unique educational experience to students who have an interest in ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources and the national policy decisions affecting those resources. The program matches highly qualified graduate students with hosts in the legislative and executive branches, or appropriate associations/institutions, located in the area of Washington, DC, for a one year paid fellowship. Applications are due by February 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=February%202013%20CZ-Mail>

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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