[SEMCO] October 2014 CZ-Mail

[CZ-Mail at state.ma.us]

CZ-MAIL

October 2014

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=October%202014%20CZ-Mail>. For daily updates from CZM, please follow us on Twitter<http://twitter.com/MassCZM>.



2014 Draft Massachusetts Ocean Management Plan

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) released the Draft Massachusetts Ocean Management Plan, September 2014<http://www.mass.gov/eea/2014-draft-ocean-plan> (2014 draft ocean plan) on September 24 for public review, hearings, and a 60-day public comment period. The 2014 draft ocean plan is the first formal amendment of the Commonwealth's ocean plan, which was released in December 2009 in response to the Oceans Act of 2008. The 2009 ocean plan established protections for critical marine habitat and important water-dependent uses in the Massachusetts Ocean Planning Area and set siting and performance standards for specific ocean-based development. EEA is required by the Oceans Act to review the ocean plan every five years. As with the development of the first ocean plan, CZM led the review and update effort initiated in January 2013, working closely with the Ocean Advisory Commission and Ocean Science Advisory Council.



Five regional public hearings will be held to receive comment and input on the 2014 draft ocean plan. The hearings will be:

·         North Shore - October 8, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at the Ipswich Public Library, Collins Room, 25 N. Main Street, Ipswich, MA 01938.

·         Cape Cod - October 14, 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. at the Heritage House Hotel, Chauncy's Room, 259 Main Street, Hyannis, MA 02601.

·         South Coast - October 20, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, Memorial Theater, 18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford, MA 02740.

·         Islands - October 22, 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. at the Katharine Cornell Theater, 54 Spring Street, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568.

·         Boston and South Shore - October 27, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at the Executive Office for Energy and Environmental Affairs, 100 Cambridge Street, 2nd Floor Rooms C-D, Boston, MA 02114.



Comments on the 2014 draft ocean plan must be received by: 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 25. See www.mass.gov/eea/2014-draft-ocean-plan<http://www.mass.gov/eea/2014-draft-ocean-plan> for commenting instructions and an online copy of the draft plan, www.mass.gov/eea/mop<http://www.mass.gov/eea/mop> for information on the review and update process and links to ocean plan data and documents, and the EEA Press Release<http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2014/draft-of-ma-ocean-management-plan-update-released.html> for additional details.



Massachusetts Receives Funds to Characterize Beaches

Geoscientists at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and the Massachusetts Geological Survey, in partnership with CZM, have received a $200,000 award from the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to characterize sediment types and document the existing beach and dune profiles at 22 public beaches along the Massachusetts coast over the next two years. This project will establish baseline characteristics (grain size statistics and elevation profiles) and provide the data needed for future shoreline management planning. The beaches being assessed in year one are in Cuttyhunk, Falmouth, Nantucket, Oak Bluffs, and Westport. Year two will assess beaches in Hull, Marshfield, Nahant, Newbury, Newburyport, Plymouth, Revere, Rockport, Salisbury, Sandwich, Scituate, and Winthrop.



New Federal Office for Coastal Zone Management

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management-the federal agency that administers the National Coastal Zone Management Program, which includes CZM-has merged with the Coastal Services Center to create the new Office for Coastal Management<http://www.coast.noaa.gov>. While the basic missions of these organizations remain intact, the merger is intended to generate new efficiencies and improve effectiveness of program implementation. In addition to the National Coastal Zone Management Program, the major initiatives of this new NOAA office are Digital Coast, the National Estuarine Research Reserve System, and the Coral Reef Conservation Program.



COASTSWEEP 2014-Still Sweeping Through Coastal Towns

September kicked-off the 27th annual COASTSWEEP, the state's volunteer beach cleanup organized by CZM as part of Ocean Conservancy's International Coastal Cleanup<http://www.oceanconservancy.org/our-work/international-coastal-cleanup/>. Volunteers have already turned out in large numbers throughout Massachusetts to collect marine debris, such as trash, fishing line, and other human-made items, and record what they found. But COASTSWEEP isn't over yet! There is still plenty of time to volunteer at a scheduled cleanup or to organize one of your own at a local beach or coastal site. All the supplies (bags, gloves, data cards, pencils, etc.) are provided free of charge, and cleanups can be scheduled at your convenience through the end of October. To find out more, see the COASTWEEP Press Release<http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2014/ma-kicks-off-the-27th-annual-coastsweep-beach-cleanup.html> or COASTSWEEP website<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/communications/coastsweep/>, especially the Get Involved page<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/communications/coastsweep/get-involved.html> and the 2014 Cleanup List<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/communications/coastsweep/cleanup-list.html>, or check out COASTSWEEP on Facebook<http://www.facebook.com/Coastsweep> or Twitter<https://twitter.com/coastsweep>. For more about marine debris and how to prevent it, see the CZ-Tip - Help Clean up Massachusetts Shores at COASTSWEEP<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/communications/cz-tips/cz-tip-coastsweep.html>.



CZ-Tip: Boat Winterizing-Keep It Green

As the cold weather settles in, most boat owners are removing their vessels from the water and storing them for the winter. Boats must be properly prepared for storage to ensure that all parts and systems are protected from the weather and are not harmed from the lack of use. This process, referred to as winterizing or decommissioning, can impact the environment if not done properly. Oil may spill during an oil change, fuel can degrade if not stabilized, soaps and detergents can harm marine life, bottom paint can wash into the water during pressure washing, and boat sewage can pollute coastal waters if not disposed of properly. For more information and specific tips to winterize your boat in an environmentally sensitive manner, see the CZ-Tip: Boat Winterizing-Keep It Green<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/communications/cz-tips/cz-tip-boat-winterizing.html>.



Grants/Funding/Proposal Opportunities

Climate Resilience Grants - CZM is seeking proposals for two grant programs that support local efforts to address the effects of coastal storms, flooding, erosion, and sea level rise. The Coastal Community Resilience Grant Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/stormsmart-coasts/grants/> will provide up to $1.5 million in grants and technical resources to coastal communities to advance innovative local efforts addressing climate change and sea level rise impacts. The funds will finance initiatives to increase awareness of these issues, assess vulnerability and risk and implement measures to respond, recover, and adapt to coastal impacts. The Green Infrastructure for Coastal Resilience Pilot Grant Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/stormsmart-coasts/green-infrastructure-grants/> will provide up to $1.5 million in funding and technical resources to coastal communities and eligible nonprofit organizations for natural approaches addressing coastal erosion and flooding problems. Grants can be used for planning, feasibility assessment, design, permitting, construction, and monitoring of green infrastructure projects that use natural approaches instead of hard structures such as seawalls and groins. For more information, to view the Requests for Responses (RFR), and download required forms, see the CZM Grants web page<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/about-czm/jobs-and-grants/#grants>. Proposals are due by October 10.



Ecological Effects of Sea Level Rise - NOAA is seeking proposals for the 2015 Ecological Effects of Sea Level Rise (EESLR) Program. Grants will fund projects that improve the management of regional and local ecosystem effects of sea level rise and coastal inundation through targeted research on key technologies, natural and nature-based infrastructure, physical and biological processes, and model evaluation. The overall goal of EESLR is to integrate dynamic physical and biological processes with sea level rise and coastal inundation to improve the prediction of coastal ecosystem effects to enable enhanced coastal resiliency. The program expects to fund up to five, two to three year projects at $150,000 to $200,000 per year, per proposal. For details, go to Grants.Gov<http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=262398>. Applications are due by November 18.



Massachusetts Environmental Trust General Grants - The Massachusetts Environmental Trust (MET) has released the FY2016 RFR for their General Grants Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/grants-and-tech-assistance/grants-and-loans/mass-enviro-trust/met-grants.html>, which supports nonprofit organizations and municipalities in efforts to restore, protect, and improve water and water-related resources of the Commonwealth. Proposals are being accepted for programs and initiatives that address threats to the health of the state's water bodies and watersheds. For more information, to view the RFR, and download required forms, see the COMMBUYS website<https://www.commbuys.com/bso/external/bidDetail.sdo?docId=BD-15-1042-ENV-ENV01-00000001566&external=true&parentUrl=bid>. Letters of inquiry are due by October 24 for projects that will begin in July 2015.



Marine Debris Funding Opportunity - The NOAA Marine Debris Program<http://marinedebris.noaa.gov/>, in cooperation with the NOAA Restoration Center, is seeking proposals to fund grass-roots, community-based activities that improve living marine resource habitats through the removal of marine debris. Projects will need to report the total amount of debris removed, total area or extent cleaned or restored, types of debris encountered, and volunteer hours involved. The estimated total award amount is $2 million, with a maximum of $350,000 and a minimum of $15,000 per project. For more information, see Grants.gov<http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=265368>. Applications are due by November 17.



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

·         Coastal Pollution Remediation Grants - CZM is seeking proposals for the Coastal Pollutant Remediation (CPR) Grant program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/coastal-water-quality/cpr/>. For Fiscal Year (FY) 2015, the CPR program will provide up to $400,000 to municipalities located in the Massachusetts Coastal Watershed to assess and remediate stormwater pollution from paved surfaces and to design and construct commercial boat waste pumpout facilities. As much as $125,000 may be requested and a 25 percent match of the total project cost is required. Projects may not exceed one year in duration and must be completed by June 30 of each year. For more information, to view the RFR, and download required forms, see the COMMBUYS website<https://www.commbuys.com/bso/external/bidDetail.sdo?docId=BD-15-1042-CZM-ENV40-00000001006&external=true&parentUrl=bid>. Proposals are due by October 7.

·         Sea Level Rise and Stormwater BMP Evaluation - CZM is seeking applications to provide consultant services to conduct an evaluation of sea level rise and climate impacts on stormwater Best Management Practices (BMP) in the coastal zone. The final deliverable will provide recommendations for improvements to BMP design and operation and maintenance protocols and will enhance state and municipal efforts to better protect coastal resources and support adaptation strategies and suitable policy changes. Up to $75,000 is available through this RFR, which is sponsored by CZM and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection's Nonpoint Source Pollution Program. For more information, to view the RFR, and download required forms, see the COMMBUYS website<https://www.commbuys.com/bso/external/bidDetail.sdo?docId=BD-15-1042-CZM-ENV40-00000001160&external=true&parentUrl=bid>. Proposals are due by October 7.



Products/Publications

Flooding on the U.S. Coastline Series - Reuters News has released the first article of the Water's Edge: The Crisis of Rising Sea Levels<http://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/waters-edge-the-crisis-of-rising-sea-levels/> news series that examines the increase in flooding along much of the U.S. coastline. The first article, Why Americans are flocking to their sinking shores even as the risks mount, documents impacts to the Atlantic coastline, and in particular highlights sea level rise impacts on communities in the Chesapeake Bay area of southern Virginia. The next article in the series will discuss how U.S. policy promotes development along endangered shores.



Groundfish and the Revitalization of the Port of New Bedford - A study conducted by the School for Marine Science and Technology at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, Groundfish Port Recovery and Revitalization Plan for the Port of New Bedford/Fairhaven<http://www.savingseafood.org/images/documents/groundfish%20port%20report%20new%20bedford%20printer.pdf> (PDF, 7.5 MB), documents the recent decline of the regional groundfishery, assesses its effects on shoreside businesses, and makes recommendations for the revitalization of the fishery and improvements to the port.



WHOI Newsletter - The September 2014 issue of the WHOI newsletter<http://www.whoi.edu/newsletters/sep14/>, a Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute (WHOI) monthly e-newsletter, features articles on mercury in the global ocean, whale sharks in the Red Sea, and other ocean science news, research, and events at WHOI.



Ebb & Flow - The June 2014 issue of Ebb & Flow<http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/dfg/der/newsletters/ebb-and-flow-21.pdf> (PDF, 2.5 MB), the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration eNewsletter, features articles on how large-scale success requires efforts on a small scale, Mill Pond Dam removal in Hanover/Norwell, and other restoration updates, grant opportunities, events, and resource links.



Natural Hazards Observer - The September 2014 issue of the Natural Hazards Observer<http://www.colorado.edu/hazards/o/archives/pastobservers.html>, the bimonthly periodical of the Natural Hazards Center in Boulder, Colorado, features articles on risk perception, disease epidemics, public-private partnerships, and other natural hazards news and information.



Stellwagen Bank E-Notes - The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary has released the July-August 2014 edition of Stellwagen Bank E-Notes<http://stellwagen.noaa.gov/library/pdfs/enotes_august2014.pdf> (PDF, 1.9 MB), a newsletter that provides the latest information about sanctuary research, education, and resource conservation. This issue includes articles on whales in the sanctuary, the latest voyage of the Whaleship Charles W. Morgan, and other sanctuary stories, news, and notes.



Marine Ecosystems and Management Information Service - The August-September 2014 edition of Marine Ecosystems and Management<http://depts.washington.edu/meam/MEAM37.html>, the bimonthly information service on marine ecosystem-based management from the University of Washington School of Marine Affairs, features articles on improving ocean management to address human health, managing Arctic Ocean fisheries, and other notes and news.



Sound Waves - The July/August 2014 issue of Sound Waves<http://soundwaves.usgs.gov/>, the monthly newsletter from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), features articles on the USGS Coastal Change Hazards Portal, a new tide gate in Mashpee, and other coastal and marine research news.



Web-Based and Mobile-User Resources

Massachusetts Alerts - The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has released Massachusetts Alerts<http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/massachusetts-alerts.html>, a free public safety alerting application for smartphones customized for Massachusetts. Users receive emergency notifications from MEMA and other public safety agencies. In addition to alerts and critical information about ongoing incidents and disasters, Massachusetts Alerts also provides preparedness tips and information and directs users to online resources to help prepare for, manage during, and recover from the wide range of natural, technological, and man-made hazards.



NOAA Climate Prediction Center GIS Portal - The NOAA National Ocean Service/Special Projects Office has developed the GIS Portal application<http://www.cpc.noaa.gov/products/GIS/map_viewer/cpcgis.swf>, which displays NOAA's Climate Prediction Center's suite of monitoring, assessment, and forecast products as geographically based maps. For this initial version of the application, only selected variables are available.



North and South Rivers Summer Research - The North and South Rivers Watershed Association has released information about findings from it summer 2014 scientific research. See the research site<http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/357771/3ac2ca00ad/1658000482/53665b7a8a/>, which provides details on river herring counts, horseshoe crab monitoring, North River mussel enhancement, water quality of the North and South Rivers, Mill Pond vegetation monitoring, streamflow monitoring, and sea level rise on salt marshes.



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.



Gloucester Municipal Harbor Plan Renewal - EEA and CZM are seeking comments on the city of Gloucester's Municipal Harbor Plan (MHP) and Designated Port Area (DPA) Master Plan renewal<http://www.gloucester-ma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3118> (PDF, 26 MB). Submit written comments on the proposed plans to: Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management, Kathryn Glenn, North Shore Regional Coordinator, 251 Causeway Street, Suite 800, Boston MA 02114-2136. Comments are due by October 10.



Cape Cod Section 208 Plan Draft - The Cape Cod Commission is seeking public comments on the Draft §208 Water Quality Management Plan Update<http://cape2o.org/main.html>. In 2013, to address nitrogen and phosphorous pollution in Cape Cod coastal waters, the Cape Cod Commission began a planning process to develop a §208 Water Quality Management Plan for Cape Cod. This plan is a multifaceted approach to build a regional consensus for local and financially responsible wastewater solutions. The 218-page draft includes background, analysis, recommendations, and documents. The focus is on nutrient impacts, primarily caused by nitrogen in wastewater, on the Cape's estuaries. For more information, see the Plan website<http://cape2o.org/main.html>. Comments are due by November 20.



Estuary Monitoring Standards - The Estuary Habitat Restoration Council has revised the 2003 minimum monitoring standards required under the Estuary Restoration Act and is requesting public review and comment on the updated standards. For more information, see the Estuary Restoration Act website<http://www.era.noaa.gov/information/monitor.html>. Submit comments to Chris Eng at chris_eng at fws.gov<mailto:chris_eng at fws.gov> by October 15.



Draft Stormwater General Permit for Small Massachusetts Municipalities - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking public comment for the draft general permit for small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) in Massachusetts. The draft permit combines the two previously issued draft permits for Massachusetts-the 2010 draft North Coastal Watershed permit and the 2010 draft Interstate, Merrimack, and South Coastal Watersheds permit. This permit requires regulated small MS4s to develop, implement, and enforce a stormwater management program designed to control pollutants to the maximum extent practicable, protect water quality, and satisfy appropriate requirements of the federal Clean Water Act. On October 28, EPA will hold a public meeting in Haverhill to explain the permit requirements and answer questions. Additional meetings in November will also be scheduled around the state. Also, a public hearing will be held on November 19 in Leominster. For more information, including links to the draft permit and updates to the public meeting schedule, see the EPA website<http://www.epa.gov/region1/npdes/stormwater/MS4_MA.html>. Comments are due by December 29.



Reminder - This public comment opportunity, listed in the last CZ-Mail, is still open:

·         Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations: Acushnet, Berkley, Dighton, Freetown, Marion, and Seekonk - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is seeking comments on the proposed flood hazard determinations, which may include additions or modifications to the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and supporting Flood Insurance Study (FIS) reports for communities in Bristol County (Acushnet, Berkley, Dighton, Freetown, Marion, and Seekonk). The FIRMs and FISs are the basis for the floodplain management measures that a community must adopt to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program. The preliminary FIRMs and the FIS for the proposed Base Flood Elevations are available on the FEMA website<http://www.fema.gov/preliminaryfloodhazarddata> and at each community's city/town hall. Submit comments, identified by Docket No. FEMA-B-1415, by October 7 to Luis Rodriguez at Luis.Rodriguez3 at fema.dhs.gov<mailto:Luis.Rodriguez3 at fema.dhs.gov>.



Job Postings

Land Stewardship Director for Buzzards Bay Coalition - The Buzzards Bay Coalition seeks an accomplished professional to serve as Land Stewardship Director. This position is responsible for the planning, management, and implementation of all land management and stewardship associated with the conservation lands owned by the organization and the growing number of conservation restrictions it holds. See the full job announcement<http://savebuzzardsbay.org/AboutUs/Leadership/JoinOurTeam> for additional information.



Calendar

October Is Massachusetts Archaeology Month - In celebration of Massachusetts Archaeology Month, the Massachusetts Board of Underwater Archaeological Resources<http://www.mass.gov/czm/buar> (BUAR) is participating in several events. On October 9 at 7 p.m., BUAR Director Vic Mastone will give a lecture entitled, Finding the First Minot's Ledge Lighthouse: "I shall...die in the performance of my duty," at the Nantasket Beach Resort in Hull. The lecture is part of a series in collaboration with the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Hull Lifesaving Museum, and the Friends of the Hull Public Library. From October 17-18, BUAR will participate in the Archaeological Institute of America's Archaeology Fair<http://www.archaeological.org/events/15430> at the Boston Museum of Science. The fair is directed to school groups on October 17 and families/general public on October 18. BUAR activities include participation in a mock "dig" of a shipwreck and exhibits. Lastly, on October 20 at 7 p.m., the BUAR Director will give a lecture entitled, Underwater Archaeology: 17th Century Nipmuc Mishoonahs in Lake Quinsigamond, at the R.S. Peabody Museum of Archaeology (Phillips Academy) in Andover. This lecture is sponsor by the Eugene Winter Chapter of the Massachusetts Archaeological Society. For more events, see the Archaeology Month website<http://www.sec.state.ma.us/mhc/mhcarch/archmonthintro.htm>.



Archaeology Events at CCMNH - In October, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History (CCMNH) will host two Archaeology Month programs. On October 5, Underwater Archaeology in National Marine Sanctuaries<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/underwater-archaeology> with Maritime Archaeologist Deborah Marx will feature shipwreck mapping, scuba equipment, tools to locate shipwrecks, and much more. On October 25, the museum will host an Archaeology Open House<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/Archaeology-open-house> with Archaeologist Dan Zoto and the entire team of CCMNH archaeologists where visitors can tour the CCMNH archaeology lab, view artifacts from local excavations, and learn about the archaeology of the area.



Energy, the Environment and the Innovation Economy Forum - On October 8, the Gubernatorial Forum on Energy, the Environment & the Innovation Economy<http://www.eventbrite.com/e/gubernatorial-forum-on-energy-the-environment-the-innovation-economy-tickets-13178676777> will be held at Suffolk University Law School in Boston. The forum will feature the four Massachusetts Gubernatorial candidates for a discussion of the Commonwealth's key environmental and energy issues.



Aquarium Lecture Series - The New England Aquarium in Boston is hosting a Fall 2013 Aquarium Lecture Series<http://www.neaq.org/education_and_activities/programs_and_classes/aquarium_lecture_series/index.php> to provide a forum for scientists, environmental writers, and photographers to present lectures and films on the subject of the blue planet. Upcoming October lectures include: What does adapting to climate change look like? on October 9, Big cats, Panama, and armadillos: A story of climate and life on October 16, Kelp and climate change: Reef life in your backyard on October 23, and The bees and the seas: Finding similarities in conservation goals on October 30. These free lectures, held at the Simons IMAX Theatre, continue into December. Registration is requested.



Walk Inside the Inflatable Gray Whale - On October 12, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present Walk Inside the Inflatable Gray Whale<http://ccmnh.org/Events/Gray-Whale>. Learn all about the magnificent whale's behavior and habits from the inside out in a life-size, inflatable, gray whale. Registration is recommended.



NEERS Spring Meeting - From October 16-18, the New England Estuarine Research Society (NEERS) will hold its Fall 2014 Meeting<http://neers.org/MEETINGS/NEERSmeeting/MeetingOverview.html> in Groton, Connecticut. Meeting presentations will be on a variety of topics related to the science, management, and education issues around estuarine and coastal ecosystems.



MassBays Green Infrastructure Workshops - In October, the Massachusetts Bays National Estuary Program (MassBays) will host four Green Infrastructure Workshops, Using Green Infrastructure to Treat and Control Stormwater in Coastal Communities. These workshops will be held across the MassBays planning region to present an upcoming handbook developed in partnership with EPA for departments of public works and planning, conservation commissions and agents, and nonprofits concerned about water quality in coastal ecosystems. Each workshop will include a case study and step-by-step process to install infrastructure that utilizes natural processes to treat and manage runoff. The workshops will be held on October 23 in Danvers, October 24 in Milton, October 28 in Barnstable, and October 29 in Pembroke. For more information and to register, see the workshops web page<https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MassBaysworkshops>.



National Adaptation Forum-Call for Proposals - From May 12-14, 2015, the 2nd National Adaptation Forum<http://www.nationaladaptationforum.org> will be held in St. Louis, Missouri. This biennial conference provides opportunities for professional development through formal trainings, facilitated practitioner presentations, and informal exchange of information. Proposals are welcome on integrating adaptation into planning efforts. See the Call for Proposals<http://www.nationaladaptationforum.org/call-proposals>, which are due by October 24.



International Invasive Sea Squirt Conference - From October 29-31, the International Invasive Sea Squirt Conference V<http://www.whoi.edu/main/sea-squirt-conference-v> will be held at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in Woods Hole. The conference will focus on invasive ascidians, otherwise known as sea squirts, exploring the biology, ecology, impacts, and management of these species along with other relevant topics.



Restoration and Coastal Management Summit - From November 1-6, Restore America's Estuaries and the Coastal Society will hold Summit 2014<http://www.estuaries.org/summit>: Inspiring Action, Creating Resilience-the 7th National Summit on Coastal and Estuarine Restoration and 24th Biennial Meeting of the Coastal Society-in Washington, DC. The 2014 summit will bring together restoration and coastal management communities for an integrated discussion to explore issues, solutions, and lessons learned.



Green Infrastructure Webcasts - EPA's Green Infrastructure Program Webcast Series<http://water.epa.gov/infrastructure/greeninfrastructure/gi_training.cfm> features bimonthly webcasts geared toward public officials and practitioners just beginning to implement green infrastructure, as well as those looking to enhance established programs. The next webcast, Innovative Financing for Green Infrastructure, is on November 4.



North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium Annual Meeting - From November 5-6, the Annual Meeting of the North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium<http://www.narwc.org/index.php?mc=4&p=4> will be held at the New Bedford Whaling Museum in New Bedford. The 2014 annual meeting agenda will include two days of presentations on research, management, conservation, and education.



Ocean GIS Forum - From November 5-7, the Esri Ocean GIS Forum<http://www.esri.com/events/oceans>, Understanding and Managing Our Oceans, will be held in Redlands, California. The forum will present ways GIS technology can help people better understand the ocean, sustainably use its resources, and intelligently plan for the future.



Ocean Literacy Summit - From November 6-7, the 2014 New England Ocean Science Education Collaborative Ocean Literacy Summit<http://www.neosec.org/ocean-literacy-summit-2014>, The Oceans and Humans Are Inextricably Interconnected, will be held in Woods Hole. The fifth biennial conference will seek to advance ocean literacy across New England by exploring the incredibly complex and varied issues facing people and the ocean.



Youth Ocean Conservation Summit - On November 8, the Youth Ocean Conservation Summit<http://stowitdontthrowitproject.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e16bfb5dfe985dd39e3e254aa&id=b1c20ee73e&e=8301b0a5ba> will be held at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, Florida. Youth participants attending this summit will learn from marine scientists and conservationists about current threats facing marine ecosystems, will work with mentors to develop action plans for ocean conservation projects, and take part in workshops designed to give them the skills necessary to successfully implement these projects.



Massachusetts Trails Conference - On November 8, the Department of Conservation and Recreation in partnership with the Massachusetts Recreational Trail Advisory Board will hold the 2014 Massachusetts Trails Conference<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr/services-and-assistance/grants-and-technical-assistance/conferences.html> in Leominster. This year's conference will feature 16 sessions, hands-on outdoor workshops, and field trips.



CitiesAlive Conference - From November 12-15, the CitiesAlive: 12th Annual Green Roof & Wall Conference<http://www.citiesalive.org/> will take place in Nashville, Tennessee. Join sustainable building professionals and speakers from across the design, development, planning, and utility sectors for tours, training and plenary sessions, and a trade show to promote living architecture in support of urban resiliency to natural hazards, including hurricanes, fires, floods, and food shortages.



Great Marsh Sea Level Rise Symposium - On November 13, the Great Marsh Coalition will hold the Great Marsh Symposium 2014: Case Studies in Local Adaptation in The Essex Room at Woodman's of Essex. This full-day workshop is for coastal decision makers and practitioners from the region to explore, share, and discuss various ongoing case studies that address adaptation efforts to mitigate sea level rise impacts in the Great Marsh-the largest continuous stretch of salt marsh in New England, extending from Cape Ann to New Hampshire. Pre-registration is required by November 7 as space is limited. Registration is $15. Coffee and lunch will be provided. To register, see the symposium registration web page<http://www.thetrustees.org/greatmarsh>. For more information, contact CZM's Kathryn Glenn at kathryn.glenn at state.ma.us<mailto:kathryn.glenn at state.ma.us>.



Northeast Regional Planning Body Meeting - From November 13-14, the fifth Northeast Regional Planning Body (RPB) Meeting<http://neoceanplanning.org/events/november-2014-rpb-meeting/> will be held in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The Northeast RPB includes representatives from the six New England states, 10 federally recognized tribes, 10 federal agencies, and the New England Fishery Management Council. Its mandate is to create a New England Ocean Plan and oversee its implementation. In advance of the meeting, several public meetings will be held across New England<http://neoceanplanning.org/events/fall-2014-public-meetings/> in October. These meetings will include updates on the regional ocean planning effort and a discussion of two topics the RPB will focus on at its November meeting: options under the Effective Decision Making goal and the Healthy Ocean and Coastal Ecosystems goal.



StormCon 2015-Call for Papers - From August 2-6, 2015, StormCon 2015<http://www.stormcon.com/index.html>, the North American Surface Water Quality Conference and Exposition, will be held in Austin, Texas. Conference organizers are seeking presentations in six program tracks: best management practice case studies, green infrastructure, stormwater program management, water-quality monitoring, and industrial stormwater management. See the Call for Papers<http://www.stormcon.com/papers.html>, which are due by November 19.



Tuesday Tweets - Every other Tuesday through December, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will hold Tuesday Tweets<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/Tuesday-Tweets>, birdwatching walks with Gretchen Moran Towers. Whether experienced or a beginner, bring binoculars, wear appropriate footwear, and come prepared to watch, study, and enjoy feathered friends in their natural habitats.



Walks and Talks on Cape Cod - Through the fall, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will hold a series of walks, lectures, and events with local naturalists. Topics to be covered include birdwatching, sharks, and nature, along with the Wednesday Walk series with Connie Boyce<http://www.ccmnh.org/Wednesday-Walks-with-Connie-Boyce>. For details, see the museum calendar<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events>.



Naturescape Gallery - In October, the Naturescape Gallery<http://www.ccmnh.org/Naturescape-Gallery> at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will feature Nature Illustrator Barbara Harmon. Visit the exhibit to see Barbara's vivid images, created through a combination of traditional art and digital work in Photoshop or Illustrator.



Cape Cod Field Schools - Through November, Mass Audubon's Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is offering a variety of 2-, 3-, and 4-day field courses for adults that focus on the unique coastal environment and wildlife of Cape Cod. Cape Cod Field Schools<http://www.massaudubon.org/get-outdoors/wildlife-sanctuaries/wellfleet-bay/programs-classes-activities/cape-cod-field-schools> emphasize active, outdoor, "in-the-field" experiences and are taught by professional naturalists and scientists.



Walks, Lectures, and Events on Cape Cod - Mass Audubon's Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary in Barnstable offer a variety of educational programs for children and adults, including naturalist-led bird walks and nature adventures for preschoolers. For more information, search the Wellfleet Bay's calendar of programs, classes, and activities<http://www.massaudubon.org/get-outdoors/wildlife-sanctuaries/wellfleet-bay/programs-classes-activities> or the Long Pasture's calendar of programs, classes, and activities<http://www.massaudubon.org/get-outdoors/wildlife-sanctuaries/long-pasture/programs-classes-activities>.



Ipswich River Wildlife Programs and Activities - Mass Audubon's Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary provides numerous nature walks, talks, and adventures. See the program catalog<http://www.massaudubon.org/get-outdoors/wildlife-sanctuaries/ipswich-river/programs-classes-activities> for event and schedule information.



Walks in Harwich - The Harwich Conservation Trust has posted its schedule of walks through the fall. All walks are free and open to the public. See the Trust's website<http://harwichconservationtrust.org/walks-events/walk-schedule/> for details.



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

·         Nahant Marine Science Center Open House - On October 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Northeastern University's Marine Science Center<http://www.northeastern.edu/marinescience/> in Nahant will host its annual Open House<http://www.northeastern.edu/marinescience/event/annual-open-house/> for all ages. All are welcome to this free event that includes a tour of the recently renovated building and research labs, a fieldwork obstacle course, touch tanks, and more.

·         Invasive Plant Symposium - On October 7, the Connecticut Invasive Plant Working Group will present its 7th biennial symposium<http://cipwg.uconn.edu/2014-symposium/>, Invasive Plants 2014: Where Are We Now? at the University of Connecticut in Storrs. This full-day symposium features national, regional, and local experts, as well as citizen volunteers sharing practical solutions for managing invasive plants, promoting non-invasive plants, and improving wildlife habitat.

·         Science Teachers Conference - From October 16-18, the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) will hold a regional conference<http://www.nsta.org/conferences/area1.aspx> in Richmond, Virginia. The conference topics are focused around three strands-watershed science, partnerships and collaboration, and integrating science with other disciplines. NSTA conferences offer the latest in science content, teaching strategy, and research to enhance and expand professional development.



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.)

·         EPA official impressed with Cape initiatives (Cape Cod Times, 9/25/14) -
http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20140925/NEWS/409250315/-1/NEWS01

·         Patrick administration releases Draft Massachusetts Ocean Management Plan update (EEA Press Release, 9/24/14) -
http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2014/draft-of-ma-ocean-management-plan-update-released.html

·         State board hearing on Harbor Plan set for tonight (Gloucester Times, 9/21/14) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/news/local_news/article_fb7b00ab-b60d-5442-951b-fd7e393552a8.html

·         Squibnocket committee hears alternative plan for beach (Vineyard Gazette, 9/18/14) -
http://mvgazette.com/news/2014/09/18/squibnocket-committee-hears-alternative-plan-beach?k=vg54201c6134099&r=1#sthash.fA5SIMPd.dpuf

·         Massachusetts kicks off the 27th annual COASTSWEEP beach cleanup (EEA Press Release, 9/16/14) -
http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2014/ma-kicks-off-the-27th-annual-coastsweep-beach-cleanup.html

·         Climate change concerns weigh on Cape home-buying decisions (Boston Globe, 9/13/14) -
http://www.bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/real-estate/2014/09/13/climate-change-concerns-weigh-cape-home-buying-decisions/SnTafe2lwWiOsLt5AtezHK/story.html

·         Patrick Administration announces funding to improve resilience of coastal communities (EEA Press Release, 9/9/14) -
http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2014/funding-to-improve-resilience-of-coastal-communities.html

·         $3 Million in state money available to fight coastal effects of climate change (Hingham Patch, 9/9/14) -
http://patch.com/massachusetts/hingham/3-million-state-money-available-fight-coastal-effects-climate-change-0#.VBGmFBaKy1h



Other Items of Interest

Gulf of Maine King Tides Photo Contest - On October 9, Gulf of Maine residents can participate in the first-ever regional King Tides Photo Contest<http://gulfofmaine.kingtides.net/> by capturing images of how the astronomical high tide affects coastal areas, including wharves, utilities, causeways, marshes, and beaches. King Tides illustrate what may become, with sea-level rise, the new tidal norm. This contest is a collaboration between organizations from the Gulf of Maine states and Canadian provinces. MassBays<http://www.massbays.org/> is the Massachusetts partner for the event.



Marine Conservation Internship - The Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF) in Key Largo, Florida, is now accepting applications for the spring 2015 Marine Conservation Internship<http://www.reef.org/internship>. This four-month internship provides an in-depth look into REEF's volunteer fish survey project and invasive lionfish program, providing an array of diverse experiences including scientific diving, outreach and education, data collection and management, non-profit operations, and public speaking. Interns will have many opportunities to dive and volunteer with partner organizations in the Florida Keys and South Florida. Applications are due by October 15.



Ocean 180 Video Challenge - The Center for Ocean Science Education Excellence Florida has launched the Ocean 180 Video Challenge<http://www.ocean180.org>, a nationwide opportunity for ocean scientists and middle school students. This fall, ocean scientists will submit 3-minute videos that explain their research, which are due by December 1. The top 10 videos, targeted for middle school students, will be viewed by registered middle school classrooms who will select the top three winners. Middle school teachers are invited to register<http://ocean180.org/for-teachers/register-your-class.html> their classrooms by December 1. Judging will take place from January 2-February 6, 2015.



Beneath the Waves Film Competition - The Beneath the Waves - Youth Making Ripples Film Competition<http://www.beneaththewavesfilmfest.org/youth-making-ripples/> is an opportunity for K-12 students to use their creative talents and serve as a voice for the oceans. Elementary, middle, and high school students are encouraged to create marine related films (less than 5 minutes). Films that are selected as finalists will premiere at the Beneath the Waves Youth Making Ripples Film Festival and cash prizes are available. Films submissions are due by December 5.



Campus RainWorks Challenge - EPA's Office of Water is pleased to announce the 3rd annual Campus RainWorks Challenge<http://www.epa.gov/campusrainworks>, a prize contest that challenges college and university students to develop innovative approaches for stormwater management to meet the nation's growing water infrastructure needs. Student teams, working with a faculty advisor, will submit design boards, a project narrative, and a letter of support for a proposed green infrastructure project for their campus. Winning teams will be awarded cash prizes. Entries must be submitted by December 19.







Commonwealth of Massachusetts - Deval L. Patrick, Governor

Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs - Maeve Vallely Bartlett, Secretary

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

Editor - Robin Lacey<mailto:robin.lacey at state.ma.us?subject=October%202014%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. NA13NOS4190040.

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.
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