[SEMCO] April 2015 CZ-Mail

[CZ-Mail at state.ma.us]

CZ-MAIL

April 2015

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=April%202015%20CZ-Mail>. For daily updates from CZM, please follow us on Twitter<http://twitter.com/MassCZM>.



Governor Baker Submits Request for Major Disaster Declaration

On March 27, Governor Charlie Baker submitted a request to President Barack Obama for a Major Disaster Declaration based on the impacts of an unprecedented 28-day weather event, starting January 26, that brought record snowfall, bitter temperatures, and coastal storm damage to the Commonwealth. This declaration would make federal aid available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance Program to 10 Massachusetts counties: Barnstable, Bristol, Dukes, Essex, Middlesex, Nantucket, Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk, and Worcester. During storm events on January 27-28 and February 15-16, CZM provided support in the state's Emergency Operations Center, acquiring and compiling reports from the Coastal Storm Damage Assessment Team. CZM also assisted with the preliminary damage assessments led by FEMA and the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency. See the Governor's Office press release<http://www.mass.gov/governor/press-office/press-releases/fy2015/governor-requests-federal-assistance-for-historic-storms.html> for more on the disaster declaration request.



Boundary Review for the Chelsea Creek Designated Port Area

As noticed in the March 11 Environmental Monitor<http://www.env.state.ma.us/mepa/mepadocs/2015/031115em/pn/16.pdf> (PDF, 62 KB) and the Boston Globe, CZM is seeking comments on the notice of intent to review the Chelsea Creek Designated Port Area (DPA) boundary. The purpose of the boundary review is to determine whether the DPA boundary should remain as it is currently established or whether it should be modified in accordance with criteria governing the suitability of contiguous lands and waters to accommodate water-dependent industrial use. The Commonwealth's DPA policy seeks to promote water-dependent industries as an important sector of the state's economy and prevent the loss of areas that have certain key characteristics that make them particularly well suited to water-dependent industrial uses. Under the DPA regulations at 301 CMR 25.00<http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/czm/fcr-regs/301-cmr-25.pdf> (PDF, 75 KB), CZM is responsible for mapping, interpreting, and periodic review of DPA boundaries. Please submit comments by April 10 to: Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management, Brad Washburn, Assistant Director, 251 Causeway Street, Suite 800, Boston MA 02114 or email bradford.washburn at state.ma.us<mailto:bradford.washburn at state.ma.us?subject=Chelsea%20Creek%20DPA%20Boundary%20Review>.



Coastal and Marine Geology Videos and Photos

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in partnership with CZM has created a Coastal and Marine Geology Video and Photo Portal<http://dx.doi.org/10.5066/F7JH3J7N> that allows users to view video and photography of the seafloor off of coastal California and Massachusetts, and aerial imagery of the coastline along segments of the Gulf of Mexico and mid-Atlantic coasts. These data were collected as part of several USGS Coastal and Marine Geology Program Seafloor Mapping projects and Hurricane and Extreme Storm research. For more information, see the USGS press release<http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/article.asp?ID=4156#.VRlTWvk7tpX>.



CZ-Tip: Celebrate Earth Day by Turning Trash into Treasure

April-a month of showers, school vacation, and Earth Day<http://www2.epa.gov/earthday>. In honor of this annual celebration of clean air, land, and water, the CZ-Tip - Repurposing with a Purpose<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/communications/cz-tips/cz-tip-repurpose.html> offers ideas for reusing items that would otherwise be thrown away or recycled. This repurposing approach not only helps address the solid waste issue, it keeps the coast cleaner by reducing items that can become litter and ultimately marine debris<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/communications/coastsweep/marine-debris.html>. So, if you are looking for some indoor projects for April vacation, or just want some anytime inspiration for turning trash into treasure, gather your egg cartons, yogurt containers, tin cans, wine corks, plastic bags, cardboard boxes, etc... and get crafty!


CZM Staff and People
Boston Harbor Regional Coordinator - CZM is pleased to announce that Lisa Engler has been selected as the new Boston Harbor Regional Coordinator. Lisa will hit the ground running in this new position, bringing a range and depth of experience and skills on many coastal issues. Lisa has worked the last four years as the outreach and Boston Metro Regional Coordinator for the Massachusetts Bays National Estuary Program (MassBays), where she led the Boston Harbor Habitat Coalition on a comprehensive effort to identify, map, and implement resource protection and restoration opportunities, managed outreach and communications, and worked with the other MassBays regional coordinators on bays-wide projects and priorities. Prior to MassBays, Lisa spent two years in the Massachusetts Department of Transportation's Environmental Services Division and four years at the Department of Conservation and Recreation serving as the Coastal Coordinator for the Areas of Critical Environmental Concern Program, implementing coastal resource area preservation and restoration activities with many agency and nonprofit partners. Congratulations and welcome aboard Lisa!



Grants/Funding/Proposal Opportunities

Buzzards Bay Municipal Grant Funding - The Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program (BBNEP) is seeking proposals from eligible Buzzards Bay watershed communities for projects that help meet its goals of protecting and restoring wetlands, wildlife habitat, and water quality, and safeguarding open spaces in Buzzards Bay and its surrounding watershed. An anticipated total of $40,000 of federal funds is available. For more information and to view the Request for Responses (RFR), see the COMMBUYS website<https://www.commbuys.com/bso/external/bidDetail.sdo?bidId=BD-15-1042-CZM-ENV40-00000003387&parentUrl=activeBids>. Proposals are due by May 11.



§319 Grants - The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) is seeking proposals for the §319 Nonpoint Source Pollution Competitive Grants Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/massdep/water/grants/watersheds-water-quality.html#2> to fund comprehensive projects that address nonpoint sources of pollution affecting water quality. On April 8 at 10:00 a.m., MassDEP will hold a public information session at the MassDEP offices in Worcester<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/massdep/about/contacts/central-region.html>. Potential applicants can ask questions about the §319 program, including questions about project eligibility and administrative procedures. To view the RFR, go to the COMMBUYS website<https://www.commbuys.com/bso/external/advsearch/advancedSearch.sdo> and search for Bid Description "319." Proposals are due by June 2.



Fishing for Energy - The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation on behalf of partners Covanta, Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc., and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program, is seeking proposals for the 2015 Fishing for Energy program<http://www.nfwf.org/fishingforenergy/Pages/2015rfp.aspx#.VQgyqY7F_bP> to support outreach and prevention strategies to reduce the impacts of derelict fishing gear to marine and coastal environments. Proposals are due by April 23.



Healthy Communities Grant Program - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking applications for the 2015 Healthy Communities Grant Program<http://www.epa.gov/region1/eco/uep/hcgp.html> for projects that benefit communities at risk from impacts of climate change, stormwater runoff, and other environmental issues. Proposals up to $25,000 are allowed and a five percent match of the total proposed budget is required. For more information, see the 2015 Grants page<http://www.epa.gov/region1/eco/uep/grants_2015hc.html>. Initial project summaries are due by April 30.



Parks and Conservation Grants - The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Division of Conservation Services is seeking applications for the fiscal year 2015 Parkland Acquisition and Renovations for Communities<http://www.mass.gov/eea/grants-and-tech-assistance/grants-and-loans/dcs/grant-programs/massachusetts-parkland-acquisitions-and.html> (PARC), Local Acquisitions for Natural Diversity<http://www.mass.gov/eea/grants-and-tech-assistance/grants-and-loans/dcs/grant-programs/massachusetts-local-acquisitions-for-natural.html> (LAND), and Conservation Partnership<http://www.mass.gov/eea/grants-and-tech-assistance/grants-and-loans/dcs/grant-programs/conservation-partnership-grant.html> grants. PARC grants help communities to acquire parkland, develop new parks, and renovate existing parks. LAND grants provide funds to municipal conservation commissions for the purchase of conservation land and conservation restrictions. Conservation Partnership grants provide funds to nonprofit organizations for land acquisitions. PARC and LAND grants applications are due by July 15. Conservation Partnership applications are due by July 20.



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

·         Environmental Literacy Grants - The NOAA Office of Education is seeking applications for projects designed to strengthen the public's and/or K-12 student's environmental literacy to improve community resilience to extreme weather events and environmental changes. Eligible applicants include educational institutions, including nonprofits, museums, zoos, aquariums, along with state and local governments. Proposed projects should be two-five years in duration and have a total budget of $250,000 to $500,000. For details, including upcoming informational webinars, see the NOAA website<http://www.oesd.noaa.gov/grants/funding.html>. Applications are due by April 13.

·         Sounds Conservancy Grants - The Sounds Conservancy Grants Program<http://qlf.org/atlantic_program/Sounds/sounds.htm> is dedicated to supporting the conservation and restoration of the sounds of Long Island, Fishers Island, Block Island, Rhode Island, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket and their adjacent coastlines in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island. The program encourages and supports projects that lead to improved marine and coastal resource management with funding up to $2,500 available to university, college, and high school students, private individuals, and nonprofit organizations. Applications must be postmarked by May 1.



Products/Publications

Evaluating the Coastal Landscape Response to Sea-Level Rise - The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Columbia University recently completed a study that evaluates the effects of sea-level rise on the northeastern United States. This Northeast Climate Science Center (NE CSC) funded project produced an approach and methodology to distinguish coastal areas likely to inundate in response to sea-level rise from those likely to respond dynamically by moving or changing. For more information, including project report, see the NE CSC website<https://necsc.umass.edu/news/evaluating-coastal-landscape-response-sea-level-rise>.



Extreme Northeast Sea Level Rise - NOAA and project partners have released An Extreme Event of Sea-Level Rise along the Northeast Coast of North America in 2009-2010<http://www.gfdl.noaa.gov/news-app/story.106>, a report analyzing long-term tidal gauge records that identified an extreme sea-level rise event during 2009-2010. Within this two-year period, the coastal sea level north of New York City jumped by 128?millimeters (approximately five inches).



Green Infrastructure for Municipal Operations - EPA has released Green Infrastructure Opportunities that Arise During Municipal Operations<http://epa.gov/owow/ocpd/green_infrastructure_roadshow.pdf> (PDF, 3.5 MB), a report that provides approaches that small to midsize communities can use to incorporate green infrastructure components (i.e., methods that use natural processes to improve water quality and manage water quantity) into work they are doing in public spaces. The report also presents examples and case studies of how integrating green infrastructure methods can enhance retrofits and maintenance projects and provide other community benefits.



Stormwater Infrastructure Data Sharing - The University of California Berkeley School of Law's Center for Law, Energy & the Environment has released Accelerating Cost-Effective Green Stormwater Infrastructure: Learning from Local Implementation<http://www.law.berkeley.edu/cost-effective-GSI.htm>, a report that identifies actions water quality authorities can take to drive data collection and information sharing to increase the implementation of green infrastructure in a functional and cost effective manner.



Natural Hazards Observer - The March 2015 issue of the Natural Hazards Observer<http://www.colorado.edu/hazards/o/archives/pastobservers.html#issues2015>, the bimonthly periodical of the Natural Hazards Center in Boulder, Colorado, features articles on the evaluation of the post-Sandy resilience design competition, hydraulic fracturing, 10 years after Hurricane Katina, flood vulnerability in New Orleans, and other natural hazards news and information.



Ebb & Flow - The March 2015 issue of Ebb & Flow<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/der/publications/ebb-and-flow-23.html>, the Massachusetts Department of Ecological Resources (DER) eNewsletter, features articles on funding for the Tidmarsh Farms restoration, DER's Public Service Award, and other updates, grant opportunities, events, and resource links.



WHOI Newsletter - The March 2015 issue of the WHOI newsletter<http://www.whoi.edu/newsletters/mar15/>, a Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute (WHOI) monthly e-newsletter, features articles on prehistoric monster hurricanes, viewing microscopic ocean life, and other ocean science news, research, and events at WHOI.



Stellwagen Bank E-Notes - The March 2015 issue of Stellwagen Bank E-Notes<http://stellwagen.noaa.gov/library/enotes.html>, the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary newsletter, features articles on the proposal to expand right whale critical habitat, a marine art exhibit in Boston, and other sanctuary stories, news, and notes.



Right Whale News - The March 2015 issue of Right Whale News<http://www.narwc.org/pdf/rwn/rwnmar15.pdf> (PDF, 1.3 MB), a quarterly independent newsletter dedicated to the conservation and recovery of the North Atlantic right whale, features articles on the late season population report from the southeast United States, the North Atlantic Right Whale Photo-Identification Catalog, a calendar of events, and other right whale news and notes.



Marine Ecosystems and Management Information Service - The February-March 2015 edition of Marine Ecosystems and Management<http://depts.washington.edu/meam/MEAM40.html>, the bimonthly information service on marine ecosystem-based management from the University of Washington School of Marine Affairs, features articles on turning science into policy, learning to speak about ecosystems services, and other notes and news.



MPA Connections - The spring 2015 edition of MPA Connections<http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?ca=ed033d45-fc9a-4323-8f3d-b504ed2340ac&c=d1a49760-b3ee-11e3-886f-d4ae52754055&ch=d2a601d0-b3ee-11e3-88a6-d4ae52754055>, the newsletter of NOAA's National Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Center, features articles on the Updated Framework for the National System of Marine Protected Areas of the United States of America, expansion of MPAs in California, and other MPA news.



Web-Based and Mobile-User Resources

Sea Level Rise and Cape Cod's Groundwater - Sea level rise is threatening Cape Cod's coastline, but the impacts are not always visible. In the latest Saving Paradise video from the Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC), Sea Level Rise: Changing Cape Cod's Groundwater<http://apcc.org/videos/index.html>, APCC explores the current and potential effects of sea level rise on Cape Cod's coast. Saving Paradise is a documentary series created by APCC to educate the public on the issues and potential solutions for Cape Cod's environmental challenges.



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.



Coastal Erosion Commission Report - The Massachusetts Coastal Erosion Commission<http://www.mass.gov/eea/waste-mgnt-recycling/coasts-and-oceans/coastal-erosion-commission.html> is seeking public comment on its draft report<http://www.mass.gov/eea/waste-mgnt-recycling/coasts-and-oceans/erosion-commission-report.html>, released on January 7. The commission held five regional public hearings to solicit input on the draft report. For more information see the Coastal Erosion Commission Draft Report web page<http://www.mass.gov/eea/waste-mgnt-recycling/coasts-and-oceans/erosion-commission-report.html>. Submit comments to erosion-commission at state.ma.us<mailto:erosion-commission at state.ma.us?subject=Comments%20on%20Coastal%20Erosion%20Commission%20Report> by April 7.



Job Postings

AmeriCorps Cape Cod - AmeriCorps Cape Cod is seeking applications for 32 open positions for 2015-2016<http://www.americorpscapecod.org/join-us-2/apply/>. AmeriCorps is a federally funded national service organization that addresses critical needs in communities across the country. AmeriCorps Cape Cod members partner with various organizations to conserve, protect, and restore the ecosystems of Cape Cod. Projects include habitat restoration, water quality monitoring, invasive species removal, trail building and maintenance, and shellfish propagation. Members receive a stipend, free housing, skills training, health insurance, a travel allowance, and an educational award of $5,730 after successful completion of the program. Applications are due by May 8.



Coastal Research Internships - The Coastal Systems Program at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth is seeking applications for interns to participate in a research effort this summer and throughout the academic year. Research areas include water quality monitoring, nutrient cycling, coastal ecosystems, wetlands ecology, and ocean renewable energy. Interns participate in a wide range of field and laboratory work, including nearshore and offshore sampling, citizen-based environmental monitoring, maintenance of long-term experiments in wetlands, sample preparation, and a wide variety of laboratory analytical procedures. For more information, see the Coastal Systems website<http://www.smast.umassd.edu/Coastal/research/edu&outr/Internships.html>.



Calendar

Buzzards Bay Lectures - On April 1 and 8, the New Bedford Whaling Museum in coordination with the Buzzards Bay Coalition will conclude the Where the Land Meets the Sea<http://www.whalingmuseum.org/programs/where-land-meets-sea-2015> Lecture Series. The April 1 lecture will be Restoring the Water Quality of Buzzards Bay and the April 8 lecture will be Restoring an Urban Harbor: New Bedford Harbor. Lectures are held at the Whaling Museum, starting with a reception at 6:00 p.m. (lectures and discussions begin at 6:30 p.m.).



Coffee House Series at Waquoit Bay - On Thursday evenings in April, the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (WBNERR) will host the Research at the Reserve Coffee House Series<http://www.waquoitbayreserve.org/wp-content/uploads/2015-Research-at-the-Reserve.pdf> (PDF, 578 KB) in East Falmouth. Attendees will learn about cutting edge research happening around Waquoit Bay from a different scientist each week. Lectures are held from 7:00-8:30 p.m. and coffee and dessert will be served. The first lecture, on April 2, will be The Subterranean Estuary: An Unseen and Overlooked Boundary Between the Land and the Sea by Matt Charett, Director of the Coastal Ocean Institute at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.



Water Resources Symposium - On April 3, the Tufts University Water: Systems, Science, and Society Program (WSSS) will hold the sixth annual WSSS Water Symposium<http://www.tufts.edu/water/symposium2015/index.html>, Fluid Boundaries: Integrated Solutions to Today's Water Challenges, in Boston. Students, academics, and professionals in the greater Boston area and across the nation from the public, private, and non-governmental sectors will explore many considerations and techniques used in valuing water throughout the world.



Cape Cod Sand Transport Talk - On April 6, the Orleans Conservation Trust will present Measuring the Flow of the River of Sands<http://orleansconservationtrust.org/lectures/>, a talk by Dr. Graham Giese, coastal geologist and co-founder of the Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies. Dr. Giese will discuss how to measure the rate of sediment transport-the river of sand-along the shores of Cape Cod. The talk will be held from 7:00-8:00 p.m. at the Orleans Yacht Club.



Marine Science Lectures - The Northeastern University Marine Science Center will host a series of marine science lectures<http://www.northeastern.edu/marinescience/events/> through April. On April 7, Dr. Loretta Fernandez, Assistant Professor of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Northeastern University, will present Organic Pollutants in the Ocean: How Do They End Up on Our Dinner Plates? On April 24, Dr. Susan Williams, Professor of Evolution and Ecology, University of California Davis, will present the Annual Riser Lecture, Along the Spice Route: The Quest to Protect Indonesia's Marine Biodiversity. These lectures, which are free and open to the public, will be held at the Murphy Bunker Classroom at the Marine Science Center in Nahant. Light refreshments will be served prior to each lecture.



Training Decision Makers - On April 14, the Buzzards Bay Coalition will hold a free Solutions to Nitrogen Pollution: Solving the Cranberry Puzzle<http://www.savebuzzardsbay.org/DecisionMakers?erid=560065&trid=62beb003-87d4-46a4-9bc8-bf73eb574eac> workshop. Most of Buzzards Bay's nitrogen pollution comes from wastewater, including septic systems and wastewater treatment plants. Other land sources include lawns, farm fields, and stormwater runoff. Cranberry bogs, however, are another source that is more difficult to document. This workshop will present new research that is helping scientists, cranberry growers, and decision makers better understand the amount of nitrogen flowing in and out of cranberry bogs.



Climate Adaptation for Coastal Communities - From April 14-16, the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve in Wells, Maine, will hold Climate Adaptation for Coastal Communities<http://www.wellsreserve.org/visit/calendar/1078-climate_adaptation_for_coastal_communities>, an interactive three-day training course that will present a climate adaptation toolkit to proactively address adaptation planning in the context of local government priorities. Course modules are taught by NOAA Office for Coastal Management staff and local partners.



Aquarium Lecture Series - Through June 4, the New England Aquarium will host the Aquarium Lecture Series<http://www.neaq.org/education_and_activities/programs_and_classes/aquarium_lecture_series/index.php>, which will feature free lectures and films by scientists, environmental writers, photographers, and others. The next lecture on April 15 is Protecting the Ocean's Giants: The Future of Manta Ray Conservation by Josh Stewart, Associate Director, Manta Trust and Marine Conservation Action Fund. Registration is required by April 10.



Coastal Erosion Control Workshop - On April 16, the Massachusetts Coastal Erosion Control Workshop<http://www.ejprescott.com/media/docs/Coastal-Erosion-Control-Flyer-Edgartown-MA.pdf> (PDF, 2.7 MB) will be held in Edgartown. The workshop will feature presentations on erosion control technology and practices, legal and regulatory issues, examples of erosion control in Massachusetts, and more.



NEERS Spring Meeting - From April 16-18, the New England Estuarine Research Society (NEERS) in coordination with the Coastal Society will hold its Spring 2015 Meeting<http://neers.org/MEETINGS/NEERSmeeting/MeetingOverview.html> in Bristol, Rhode Island. Meeting presentations will be on a variety of topics related to estuaries and coastal environments.



Cambridge Science Festival - From April 17-26, the ninth annual Cambridge Science Festival<http://www.cambridgesciencefestival.org/> will be held in Cambridge. The festival is a celebration showcasing the leading edge in science, technology, engineering, and math. The festival is multifaceted, multicultural event that makes science accessible, interactive, and fun. More than 160 family-friendly events will be featured throughout the city.



Nature Recess - From April 18-24, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History (CCMNH) will hold Nature Recess<http://www.ccmnh.org/Nature-Recess>, a school vacation program that will feature painting, experiments, creative activities, and more for kids of all ages.



Birdwatching for Beginners - Through June, CCMNH will hold Birdwatching for Beginners<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/Birdwatching-for-Beginners> with Gretchen Moran Towers, who will present basic skills designed to enable bird identification through sight and sound. Each session is followed by an outdoor venture to view birds in their natural habitat. The next session is on April 23.



Massachusetts Park Serve Day - On April 25, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation's (DCR) annual Park Serve Day<http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/dcr/events/save-the-date-flyer-psd-2015.pdf> (PDF, 132 KB) will be held at state parks and beaches throughout the Commonwealth. This statewide day of volunteer service helps to get Massachusetts parks and beaches ready for summer. Since 2007, thousands of volunteers have participated in dozens of projects, including picking up litter along ocean beaches, clearing debris from hiking trails, painting benches, and planting trees and flowers at park entrance areas. Online registration begins on April 2. Stay tuned to the DCR website<http://www.mass.gov/dcr> for more details.



Charles River Cleanup - On April 25 from 9:00 a.m. to noon, the 16th Annual Earth Day Charles River Cleanup<http://www.crwa.org/cleanup.html> will be held as part of the American Rivers National River Cleanup. The cleanup, which coincides with DCR's Park Serve Day, will bring out thousands of volunteers to help beautify the Charles River and its tributaries. Volunteers will pick up trash and clean the riverbanks at more than 100 sites from Bellingham to Boston.



Atlantis Stories - On April 26, CCMNH will present Atlantis Stories: Before the Mast on a Sailing Research Vessel, 1944-1948<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/Atlantis-Research-Vessel> with editors Arthur Gaines and Jay Burnett. This WHOI publication is based on the memoirs of Cape Cod boat builder Bill Cooper, who as a teenager in 1944, served aboard the Research Vessel Atlantis, the world's largest ketch operated by WHOI. Cooper writes about shipboard life conducting early research on antisubmarine warfare. Editors Arthur Gaines and Jay Burnett, both seagoing scientists, add to the story's dimension with sidebars on science and technology.



Underwater in Salem Sound Lecture Series - On April 29, Salem Sound Coastwatch will conclude its free monthly Underwater in Salem Sound lectures<http://salemsound.org/events.html> at Marblehead's Abbot Public Library at 7:00 p.m. Dr. Lindley Hanson, professor of geology at Salem State University, will present Rock, Gravel, Sand - The Geology of Our Local Beaches.



Massachusetts Marine Educators Conference - On May 2, Massachusetts Marine Educators will hold its 38th Annual Meeting and Conference<http://ma-marine-ed.org/mmeevents/whoi-conference/>, Why Marine Microbes Matter, in the Redfield Building at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. For more information, contact Carolyn Sheild at csheild at rcn.com<mailto:csheild at rcn.com?subject=Massachusetts%20Marine%20Educators%20Conference>.



Green Infrastructure Webcasts - The EPA 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 is, Getting More Green from Your Stormwater Infrastructure on May 5.



Coastal Sediments Conference - From May 11-15, the 2015 Coastal Sediments Conference<http://coastalsediments.cas.usf.edu/>, Understanding and Working with Nature, will be held in San Diego, California. This conference provides an international forum for exchanging information among coastal engineers, geologists, oceanographers, and others interested in the physical processes of coastal sediments and morphology changes.



Coastal Blue Carbon - From May 12-13, WBNERR will hold Coastal Blue Carbon: New Guidance & Tools for Coastal Managers & Policymakers<http://www.waquoitbayreserve.org/event-registration/?ee=232> in Brockton. This event will provide the results of a four-year project at WBNERR that examined the relationship between salt marshes, climate change, and nitrogen pollution. The project used cutting edge science to quantify greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration in coastal wetlands and predict greenhouse gas fluxes across a range of environmental settings. The project also developed new tools and resources to enable coastal managers and policymakers to leverage blue carbon to achieve broader wetlands management, restoration, and conservation goals.



Ceres Conference - From May 13-14, the Ceres Conference 2015<http://www.ceres.org/conferences> will be held San Francisco, California, to bring together those focusing on innovative solutions to build a more sustainable global economy. Ceres is a national network of investors, environmental organizations, and other public interest groups working with companies and investors to address sustainability challenges.



Environmental and Water Resources Conference - From May 17-21, the 2015 World Environmental & Water Resources Congress<http://www.ewricongress.org/>, Floods, Droughts, and Ecosystems: Managing Our Resources Despite Growing Demands and Diminishing Funds, will be held in Austin, Texas. The conference will feature sessions on urban watershed management, groundwater, distribution systems, hydroclimates, desalination, coastal flood risk management, and more.



Wetlands Workshops - In April and May, the MassDEP Southeast Region will hold several Spring 2015 Circuit Rider Workshops. Session topics include wetland buffer zone rules, wetlands procedures and paperwork, riverfront areas, stormwater management, and others. Dates and locations will be posted on the MassDEP website<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/massdep/news/events/>. Registration is required for all workshops. To register, email Christine Odiaga at Christine.Odiaga at state.ma.us<mailto:Christine.Odiaga at state.ma.us>.



Boating Safety Course - Through June 13, the Massachusetts Environmental Police 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.html>, a free, state and nationally approved boating safety course for boaters age 12 and older that 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 required by state law to allow operation of a motorboat without adult supervision. All graduates ages 16-17 will also be allowed to operate a personal watercraft (jet ski, wave runner, etc.).



Tuesday Tweets - Every other Tuesday through June, 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 birds in their natural habitats.



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 calendar of programs, classes, and activities for Wellfleet Bay<http://www.massaudubon.org/get-outdoors/wildlife-sanctuaries/wellfleet-bay/programs-classes-activities> and Long Pasture<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.



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

·         Emergency Preparedness Conference - From April 14-16, the Partners in Emergency Preparedness Conference<http://colorado.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b72140489b80a4574373938a1&id=35e8a7e55e&e=4051a4f944> will be held in Tacoma, Washington. This conference will present emergency management lessons learned from recent natural disasters. Topics include business continuity and disaster recovery, strategies for creating disaster-ready companies, tourists as vulnerable populations, managing urban floods, crisis communication, early warning systems, and technologies in weather preparedness.

·         State of the Bays Symposium - On April 15, MassBays will hold the State of the Bays Symposium<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/mass-bays-program/state-of-the-bays/> in Boston. This one-day symposium will look at the past, present, and future of the Massachusetts Bay and Cape Cod Bay. Panelists will describe conditions and trends in human uses, weather, water quality, habitat, and wildlife. Attendees will explore the potential for connections among research and monitoring programs to inform future monitoring and assessment efforts.

·         Working Waterfront and Waterways Symposium-Call for Abstracts - From November 16-19, the 2015 National Working Waterfronts & Waterways Symposium<http://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/nwwws/> will be held in Tampa, Florida. The goal of this triennial symposium is to increase the capacity of saltwater and freshwater coastal communities and stakeholders to make informed decisions, balance diverse uses, ensure access, and plan for the future of working waterfronts. The symposium will feature concurrent sessions, plenary sessions, posters, and a strategic planning meeting. See the Call for Abstracts and Session Proposals<http://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/NWWWS/call_ov.html>, which are due by April 15.

·         Northeast Fish and Wildlife Conference - From April 19-21, the 71st annual Northeast Fish & Wildlife Conference<http://www.neafwa.org/> will be held in Newport, Rhode Island. This conference attracts more than 500 natural resources professionals in the fields of wildlife biology, fisheries and fisheries management, information and education, and law enforcement. The event provides opportunities for education, discussion, and exchange of ideas with more than 50 workshop sessions, keynote speakers, poster displays, and social networking events.

·         Future of Water Conference - On April 24, the Watershed Action Alliance in partnership with Plimoth Plantation will hold the Future of Water in Southeastern Massachusetts<http://watershedaction.org/index.php/2015-conference>, a conference in Plymouth on water conservation, sustainable water management, and river restoration. This full-day conference will include sessions on stormwater, drinking water, recreational water, and wastewater, as well as fundraising, outreach, and science and data collection for nonprofits. The conference will also feature an exhibit hall with displays and posters from nonprofit organizations, government agencies, businesses, and students showcasing the latest work in research, conservation, river restoration projects, and techniques.

·         Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference - From April 28-29, the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission will hold the 26th annual Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference<http://www.neiwpcc.org/npsconference> in Freeport, Maine. This conference is the premier forum in the Northeast for sharing information and improving communication on nonpoint source pollution issues and projects.



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.)

·         Homeowners urge state to relax rules in fight against erosion (Cape Cod Times, 3/26/15) -
http://www.capecodtimes.com/article/20150326/NEWS/150329582

·         Poppy Spit receives sand for relief (capenews.net, 3/12/15) -
http://www.capenews.net/mashpee/news/poppy-spit-receives-sand-for-relief/article_e9f956c4-c91a-11e4-a0d7-5347163f3a1f.html

·         Coastal erosion and its impacts: Commission seeks strategies to protect property, beaches (Daily News of Newburyport, 3/10/15) -
http://www.newburyportnews.com/news/local_news/coastal-erosion-and-its-impacts/article_e60c032d-d7f1-5973-8f9b-7f518d4a873b.html

·         Scituate Coastal Coalition seeks $2M for sea wall work (Patriot Ledger, 3/4/15)
http://www.patriotledger.com/article/20150304/NEWS/150308687/12662/NEWS

·         Towns try group strategy on beach protection (Wicked Local-Cape Cod, 3/3/15) -
http://capecod.wickedlocal.com/article/20150303/NEWS/150309843/?Start=1



Other Items of Interest

FEMA Individual and Community Preparedness Awards - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is seeking applications for the 2015 Individual and Community Preparedness Awards<http://www.ready.gov/citizen-corps/citizen-corps-awards>, which highlight innovative local practices and achievements by recognizing individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions toward making their communities safer, stronger, better prepared, and more resilient. These awards are an opportunity to acknowledge the work an individual or organization has done to build a more resilient nation. Applications are due by April 10.



Science Without Borders Challenge - The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation is seeking entries for the Science without Borders Challenge<http://www.livingoceansfoundation.org/resources/for-educators/gis/>. Students, ages 14-19, are asked to submit videos (maximum of five minutes) on the theme, Protect Our Coral Reefs. Entries are due by April 28.



Coastal and Marine Recreation Study for New England - The Northeast Regional Planning Body in coordination with Point 97, SeaPlan, and the Surfrider Foundation are seeking participants in the Coastal and Marine Recreation Study for New England. The survey will collect data about individual recreation use, such as sea kayaking, surfing, and general beach use. Anyone over 18 who has visited the New England coast at least once in 2014 is encouraged to participate. Take the survey<http://www.surfrider.org/northeast-recreation/>, which is open until April 30.



Marine Art Contest - Massachusetts Marine Educators and Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary are seeking entries from students in grades K-12 for the 2015 Marine Art Contest<http://stellwagen.noaa.gov/news/pdfs/mme_artcontest_rules_2015.pdf> (PDF, 490 KB). Drawings should be based on the theme, Amazing Ocean Creatures of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Winning entries will become part of a touring exhibition and receive cash prizes. Entries are due by May 1.



Ocean Awareness Student Contest - The From the Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Student Contest<http://www.fromthebowseat.org/contest.php> promotes ocean stewardship among high school students and provides cash prizes for winning essays, art, and advocacy. This year's theme, Our Oceans, Our Plastic, focuses on plastic pollution in the oceans. Entries are due by June 15.



Summer Science School - In July and August, the Waquoit Bay Reserve Foundation sponsors a Summer Science School<http://waquoitbayreservefoundation.org/events/> offering week-long, full- and half-day educational experiences for students entering grades 2-9. For details, a program brochure, and registration information, see the Waquoit Bay Reserve Foundation's Summer Science School web page<http://waquoitbayreservefoundation.org/events/>.



KidSummer - This summer, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will offer KidSummer<http://ccmnh.org/KidSummer-Day-Program>, which provides a range of programs for 3-15 year olds that encourage learning and appreciation of the environment through age-appropriate, STEM-based curriculum and indoor/outdoor activities led by educators/naturalists. Register for weekly sessions (June 29-August 14) through the museum's FamilyID website<https://www.familyid.com/cape-cod-museum-of-natural-history>.



Coastal Ocean Science Academy - The Northeastern University Marine Science Center in Nahant is accepting applications for the 2015 Coastal Ocean Science Academy<http://www.northeastern.edu/marinescience/visiting-the-msc/pre-k-12-programs/coastal-ocean-science-academy/>, a two-week summer experience held from August 3-14 that is open to students entering grades 9-12. Participants experience firsthand diverse New England coastal habitats and marine resources, engaging in hands-on research and inquiry activities. For 2015, the program will also offer a one-week middle school session from July 20-24.







Commonwealth of Massachusetts - Charles D. Baker, Governor

Karyn E. Polito, Lieutenant Governor

Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs - Matthew A. Beaton, Secretary

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

Editor - Robin Lacey<mailto:robin.lacey at state.ma.us?subject=April%202015%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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