[SEMCO] July 2015 CZ-Mail

[CZ-Mail at state.ma.us]

CZ-MAIL

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



Gulf of Maine Council Awards

On June 17, the Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment presented its annual awards during a ceremony in Hampton, New Hampshire, including awards to four environmental leaders from Massachusetts:

*         The Stony Brook Herring Monitors received the prestigious Longard Volunteer Award, which is presented to an outstanding individual volunteer or volunteer group within the Gulf watershed. Formed in 2007, this group of 15 volunteers has been monitoring the Stony Brook herring run in Brewster. Each spring, they painstakingly track the return of herring to five upstream ponds, noting the decrease in population and raising awareness of the declines. Their efforts paid off when a three-year project on the herring run restored nearly 400 acres of spawning, nursery, and feeding habitat for river herring, increasing herring numbers by a factor of 10 since the project's completion in 2013. Documentation of this success was made possible by the monitoring work of the Stony Brook Herring Monitors.

*         Neptune's Harvest in Gloucester was awarded the Sustainable Industry Award as a company within the Gulf of Maine that demonstrated innovation and leadership. Since 1986, this innovative organic fertilizer company has been aiming for sustainability and protection of Gulf of Maine resources. Neptune's Harvest is a spin-off of a wholesale fish and seafood company that has been operating in Gloucester since 1965. Because 60-70% of its processed fish remains become waste material, or gurry, the company devised an innovative way to avoid environmentally unsound approaches of typical byproduct management. Working with the UMass Marine Science Research Center, they developed a process to turn gurry into fertilizer, allowing 100% beneficial use of the fish processed. Neptune's Harvest is a family run business that serves as a model of sustainable, innovative industry in the Gulf of Maine, strengthening the working waterfront in Gloucester.

*         The Jones River Watershed Association (JRWA) received a Visionary Award for their ability to leverage their scientific aptitude and a concerted effort to attract partners to achieve the 2011 removal of the Wapping Road Dam. Following on that success, JRWA has focused on the health of the Jones River as well as neighboring watersheds, talking with landowners and resource agencies to address water use impacts in the city of Brockton.

*         Todd Callaghan of CZM was awarded a Visionary Award for his work to develop the strategy for achieving a Massachusetts statewide No Discharge Zone designation that resulted in the protection of 2,530 square miles of state waters from the harmful effects of vessel discharges on water quality and public health. He has also secured the funding for, and managed the design of eight commercial pumpout facilities, totaling more than $100,000. His work has resulted in a program that serves as a national model.

For a complete list of winners and more information on the awards, see the Gulf of Maine Council website<http://www.gulfofmaine.org/2/gomc-home/awards/>.



Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program Awards Land Protection Grant to Mattapoisett

On July 1, EEA announced the award of $40,000 to the town of Mattapoisett to help the town's water department purchase and protect nearly 22 acres of land near one of the town's drinking water supply wells. The grant, which is funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and administered by CZM through the Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program (BBNEP), will help the town protect its drinking water supply and conserve open space. The property also contains Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program critical natural landscapes and habitat for rare endangered species, as well as 3,710 feet of direct frontage on the Mattapoisett River that includes important wetland and forest habitat. The Mattapoisett River has the second largest river herring population in Buzzards Bay. For details, see the EEA press release<http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2015/40000-for-land-protection-in-mattapoisett-announced.html>.



Boston Living with Water-Winning Designs Honored

On June 8, Mayor Walsh and the Boston Living with Water steering committee and jury honored winners of this design competition for adapting Boston's waterfront to higher sea levels. Designs to minimize damage from chronic and episodic flooding were crafted for three sites that represent the different scales and types of development along the harbor: a building, a neighborhood, and infrastructure. Three of the four Boston Living with Water winning teams were led by local architects and planners who appreciate the complexities of working vertically in an historic, urban environment. Final submissions are available for viewing on the Boston Living with Water website<http://www.bostonlivingwithwater.org/>. Funded through CZM's Coastal Community Resilience Grant Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/stormsmart-coasts/grants/> and the Barr Foundation, this design competition was hosted by The Boston Harbor Association, city of Boston, Boston Redevelopment Authority, and Boston Society of Architects. For more information, see this WGBH article<http://wgbhnews.org/post/bostons-living-water-winners-design-solutions-rising-sea-levels>.



Marshfield Sea Level Rise Symposium

On June 8, CZM joined educators from Marshfield's Furnace Brook Middle School, Bridgewater State University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Marshfield Coastal Advisory Commission to present the second annual Climate Change and Sea Level Rise Symposium. This day-long Symposium provided nearly 350 eighth grade students with an introduction to the science behind sea level rise. Lectures covered coastal geomorphology, implications, and impacts associated with sea level rise, and coastal adaptation and mitigation strategies. Students then applied what they learned to a series of exercises where they evaluated coastal hazards and sea level rise susceptibility associated with a fictitious town with similarities to South Shore communities. In addition, the students planned for the development of a new community in an undeveloped section of coastline in a way that minimized potential sea level rise impacts and maximized resiliency. Finally, CZM conducted a tutorial of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Sea Level Rise Viewer<http://coast.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/slr> as a tool to evaluate potential flooding and ecological impacts associated with sea level rise. For more information, see the Wicked Local Marshfield article<http://marshfield.wickedlocal.com/article/20150610/NEWS/150619731>.



Sign Up for COASTSWEEP 2015

COASTSWEEP, the annual state-wide beach cleanup sponsored by CZM, will kick off its 28th year in September. Volunteers throughout Massachusetts turn out in large numbers each year for this event, which is part of an international campaign organized by the Ocean Conservancy in Washington, DC. Participants all over the world collect marine debris and record what they find. This information is then used to help reduce future marine debris problems. Cleanups will be scheduled throughout September and October. To get involved, see the COASTSWEEP website<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/communications/coastsweep/> or check out COASTSWEEP on Facebook<http://www.facebook.com/pages/Coastsweep-2010/128441707185891> or Twitter<https://twitter.com/COASTSWEEP>.



Resources to Help You Get to the Coast

CZM maintains a variety of online tools to help the public get to and enjoy Massachusetts beaches and other coastal public access sites. From interactive maps of areas open to the public, to descriptions of coastal trails, to information about public rights along the shoreline, CZM's Public Access Program website<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/public-access-and-coast-guide/> can help connect you to the coast.



CZ-Tip - Check Out the Massachusetts Coast - Evening Edition

Summer days on the Massachusetts coast are filled with beaches, boats, sand, and surf. Extend the fun after a long day in the sun and enjoy sunset, twilight, and starlight on the shore. July is a great month to set off on a sunset cruise, watch fireworks from the shore, and enjoy a movie by the sea. So forget "carpe diem." When the sun stays out so late, CARPE P.M.! See CZ-Tip: Summer Evenings of Sunsets, Sand Sculpting, Sails, and More<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/communications/cz-tips/cz-tip-summer-evening.html> for suggestions.



CZM Staff and People

COASTSWEEP Intern - CZM is pleased to welcome Claudia Geib as the 2015 COASTSWEEP Intern. Claudia will be focusing on recruiting volunteers, expanding outreach efforts to area schools and environmental groups, and promoting COASTSWEEP through social media. In addition to expanding COASTSWEEP's volunteer base, she will be keeping track of cleanup findings and educating the public on marine debris issues. After a semester spent sailing the waters of New Zealand with Sea Education Association, Claudia graduated in May from Northeastern University (where she was the editor of the Northeastern Science Magazine<http://nuscimag.com/>) with degrees in Journalism and Environmental Science. She will be attending MIT for her Masters in Science Journalism in the fall. Claudia is a scuba diver and plans to organize an underwater cleanup for the coming cleanup season, and we are excited to have her on the COASTSWEEP team.



Grants/Funding/Proposal Opportunities

Coastal Pollutant Remediation Grant Program RFR Coming Soon - CZM anticipates the release of the Fiscal Year 2016 Request for Responses (RFR) for the Coastal Pollutant Remediation (CPR) Grant Program in mid-July. CPR grants provide funds for a variety of projects that address local nonpoint source pollution issues, including assessment, design, and construction of Best Management Practices and the design and implementation of commercial boat pumpout facilities. Technical assistance on potential proposals is available from CZM central and regional staff and MassBays Program regional staff up until the RFR is issued. After its release, CZM staff can only respond to general questions, but MassBays regional staff will continue to be available to assist with proposal development. For more information about CPR, including regional staff contacts, past projects, and RFR details when available, see the CPR website<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/coastal-water-quality/cpr/>.



Buzzards Bay Municipal Grants RFR Coming Soon - The Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program anticipates the release of the Fiscal Year 2016 RFR for the Buzzards Bay Municipal Grant program in mid-July. This grant round will fund projects in eligible Buzzards Bay watershed communities 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 $154,000 in federal funds will be available. For more information about these grants, past projects, and RFR details when available, see the Buzzards Bay NEP Grants web page<http://www.buzzardsbay.org/funding.htm>.



Resilient Shorelines - The Northeast Regional Ocean Council (NROC) is seeking proposals to support advancement of shared northeast state priorities for resilient shorelines. NROC will fund up to five proposals that provide data products, tools, information, and processes for shoreline resilience planning and management to coastal decision makers. Proposals should focus on increasing the delivery of scientific information and adaptation tools to coastal communities and decision-makers. For details, see the NROC website<http://northeastoceancouncil.org/2015/06/09/request-for-proposals-resilient-shorelines/>. Proposals are due by August 5.



Drinking Water Supply Grants - The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Division of Conservation Services (DCS) is seeking proposals for the fiscal year 2016 Drinking Water Supply Protection Grant Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/grants-and-tech-assistance/grants-and-loans/dcs/grant-programs/drinking-water-supply-protection-grant-program.html>. This program provides up to $350,000 per project for public water systems and municipal water departments for the purchase of land or interests in land for the protection of existing public drinking water supplies, protection of planned future public drinking water supplies, or groundwater recharge. Proposals are due by September 30.



Regional Conservation Partnership Program - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) is seeking proposals for the Regional Conservation Partnership Program<http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/farmbill/rcpp/>. This new conservation initiative will provide private companies, local communities, and other non-government partners a way to invest in clean water start-up operations with a goal to increase the restoration and sustainable use of soil, water, wildlife, and related natural resources on regional or watershed scales. Anticipated first year funding is $225 million. Pre-proposals are due by July 8. NRCS will select applicants to submit final proposals, which will be due by November 10.



FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grants - The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) are inviting communities, state agencies, and tribal governments and territories to submit applications for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). This post-disaster mitigation grant funding is now available statewide as a result of the federal disaster declaration for the January 2015 Severe Winter Storm. The 2015 Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Grant Program and the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Program funding are also now available. These 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 offer technical assistance meetings to provide applicants an opportunity to discuss their specific project proposal and ask questions of the State Hazard Mitigation Team. CZM strongly encourages all potential applicants to schedule a meeting. For complete grant details, see the MEMA website<http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/hazard-mitigation/grants/>. Applications for HMGP projects ready for implementation and applications for PDM and FMA grants are due by August 3. Applications for HMGP projects that need additional refinement can be submitted until November 23.



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

*         Parks and Conservation Grants - The 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 acquire parkland, develop new parks, and renovate existing parks. LAND grants provide funds to municipal conservation commissions to purchase conservation land and conservation restrictions. Conservation Partnership grants provide funds to nonprofit organizations for land acquisitions. PARC and LAND grant applications are due by July 15. Conservation Partnership applications are due by July 20.

*         Regional Coastal Resilience Grants - NOAA's National Ocean Service is seeking applications for the 2015 Regional Coastal Resilience Grant Program<http://coast.noaa.gov/resilience-grant/> to help coastal communities and organizations prepare for and recover from adverse events and adapt to changing environmental, economic, and social conditions. The grants will be awarded to organizations to plan and implement resilience strategies regionally to reduce current and potential future risks. Proposals are due by July 24.

*         National Maritime Heritage Grants - The National Park Service is seeking applications for approximately $1.7 million in National Maritime Heritage Grants<http://www.nps.gov/maritime/grants/apply.htm> for education or preservation projects. Education projects can request $15,000-$50,000 and preservation projects can request $50,000-$200,000. Applications are due by August 3.



Products/Publications

2015 International Coastal Cleanup Report - Ocean Conservancy has released Turning the Tide on Trash: 2015 Report<http://www.oceanconservancy.org/our-work/international-coastal-cleanup/>, which provides data and details on the 2014 International Coastal Cleanup. Overall, nearly 560,000 volunteers in 91 countries collected more than 16 million pounds of debris from the world's beaches and waterways. Along the Massachusetts coast, 2,845 COASTSWEEP volunteers collected more than 139,239 items. What was the number one item collected? Cigarette butts. To get involved this year, see the COASTSWEEP website<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/communications/coastsweep/> or check out COASTSWEEP on Facebook<http://www.facebook.com/pages/Coastsweep-2010/128441707185891> or Twitter<https://twitter.com/COASTSWEEP>.



Coastal Resilience and Marshes, Reefs, and Beaches - NOAA has released a study that finds that marshes, reefs, and beaches can enhance coastal resilience. This study highlights strengths and weaknesses of the coastal protection benefits provided by built infrastructure, natural ecosystems, and the innovative opportunities to combine the two into hybrid approaches for coastal protection. For details, see the NOAA website<http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2015/20150429-noaa-study-finds-marshes-reefs-beaches-can-enhance-coastal-resilience.html>.



Living Shorelines Report - Restore America's Estuaries has released Living Shorelines: From Barriers to Opportunities<https://www.estuaries.org/first-national-report-on-living-shorelines-institutional-barriers-released>, a new report that provides a national assessment of institutional barriers that are preventing broader use of living shorelines for shoreline protection and provides clear recommendations and strategies to move forward. Living shorelines are a suite of techniques that offer property owners the opportunity to protect and restore their shoreline using more naturally occurring systems like salt marsh and oyster reefs while also providing benefits to bays and estuaries. The report identifies three major obstacles to broader use of living shorelines along with four broad strategies that identify recommendations for policy makers.



Risk-Based Adaptation Plan Workbook - The EPA Climate Ready Estuaries Program has released Being Prepared For Climate Change: A Workbook for Developing Risk-Based Adaptation Plans<http://www2.epa.gov/cre/being-prepared-climate-change-workbook-developing-risk-based-adaptation-plans>, a workbook that provides information about how to conduct risk-based climate change vulnerability assessments and develop adaptation action plans. It is a tool designed for communities and organizations that manage places, watersheds, or coastal environments. Additional resources are also available on the Climate Ready Estuaries website<http://www2.epa.gov/cre/risk-based-adaptation>.



National Preparedness Report - FEMA has released the 2015 National Preparedness Report<https://www.fema.gov/national-preparedness-report>, an annual status report summarizing the United States' progress in building, sustaining, and delivering the core capabilities described in the 2011 National Preparedness Goal. The 2015 report places particular emphasis on highlighting preparedness progress in implementing the National Planning Frameworks, which describe how the whole community works together to achieve its goals.



Ebb & Flow - The June 2015 issue of Ebb & Flow<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/der/publications/ebb-and-flow-24.html>, the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Resources (DER) eNewsletter, features  updates, grant opportunities, events, resource links, and a tribute to Russ Cohen, 27-year DER veteran, who will retire on July 1.



WHOI Newsletter - The June 2015 issue of the WHOI newsletter<http://www.whoi.edu/newsletters/jun15/>, a Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute (WHOI) monthly e-newsletter, features articles on zebrafish exposure to environmental chemicals, red tide in New England waters, and other ocean science news, research, and events at WHOI.



Stellwagen Bank E-Notes - The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary has released the June 2015 edition of Stellwagen Bank E-Notes<http://stellwagen.noaa.gov/library/enotes.html>, a newsletter that provides the latest information about sanctuary research, education, and resource conservation. This issue includes articles on humpback whale research, and other sanctuary stories, news, and notes.



Newswave - The Spring 2014 issue of NEWSWAVE<http://www.doi.gov/pmb/ocean/news/Newswave/index.cfm>, the quarterly newsletter on ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes activities from the U.S. Department of the Interior, features articles on seafloor images, rivers after dam removals, and other ocean and coastal news.



Marine Protected Areas Connections - The June 2015 issue of Marine Protected Areas CONNECTIONS<http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?ca=88104414-5a0f-413c-b666-b4b10b9f00f5&c=d1a49760-b3ee-11e3-886f-d4ae52754055&ch=d2a601d0-b3ee-11e3-88a6-d4ae52754055>, news from the National Marine Protected Areas Center, features articles on nominations to the National System of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), Arctic MPAs, and other MPA news.



Web-Based and Mobile-User Resources

Coastal Flood Exposure Mapper - NOAA has updated its Coastal Flood Exposure Mapper<http://coast.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/flood-exposure> to cover coastal areas from Texas to Maine. Nearly 40 percent of the U.S. population lives in counties subject to significant coastal flooding and with expanding development in coastal regions that number is expected to increase. This tool allows visitors to view possible flood scenarios to calculate how floodwaters might impact their community.



Online Disaster Scenario Game for Coastal Cities - The Koshland Science Museum of the National Academy of Sciences in Washington, D.C., has developed Extreme Event: Coastal City<https://www.koshland-science-museum.org/explore-the-science/extreme-event/plan-your-game>, a 12-48 player online game designed to help groups (from communities to classrooms) see how they would do in a disaster scenario. The quick-paced game is played on tablets or laptops and features an unfolding disaster in four phases-preparation, response, recovery, and adaptation. Players must collaborate to solve disaster challenges and afterwards reflect on their levels of disaster resilience.



FEMA Data Visualization Tool - FEMA has launched a new data visualization tool<http://www.fema.gov/data-visualization> that enables users to see when and where disaster declarations have occurred across the country. As hurricane season kicks off, the tool helps provide important information about the history of hurricanes and other disasters in communities and what residents can do to prepare.



Marine Debris Campus Toolkit - EPA, in partnership with the Product Stewardship Institute and the University of California, has released the Marine Debris Campus Toolkit<http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/d0cf6618525a9efb85257359003fb69d/a13abd9e0e1f456a85257e3f00643d8d!OpenDocument> to help college campuses and other institutions cut plastic waste to help reduce marine debris and coastal pollution. The Campus Toolkit is a detailed "how to" guide for reducing plastic waste on college campuses and other institutions, including a footprint calculator, a source reduction plan to eliminate the use of disposable plastic items, changing campus purchasing practices by switching to greener, lower waste products, and establishing campus-wide plastic waste reduction policies.



Sea Level Rise Hotspot - In this online interview<http://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/2015/05/sea-level-rise-hotspot/> from Yale Climate Connections, Kara Doran of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) claims that east coast sea levels are rising faster than the global average. Listen as she explores local sea level rise along the East Coast of the United States.



Public Comment

Please note: All official CZM requests for public comment are published in the Public Notices section of the Environmental Monitor<http://web1.env.state.ma.us/EEA/emepa/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.



Southeast New England Program Water Quality Management Grants - The Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program is seeking comments on its Draft Request for Proposals for the Southeast New England Program (SNEP) Water Quality Management Grants. This grant program supports the EPA's SNEP mission to protect and restore the southeast New England ecosystem by connecting communities through collaboration and partnerships throughout the region; fostering and promoting innovative approaches; and engaging public stewardship. This grant round is focused on nutrient and pathogen water quality issues. Although certain elements of this draft Request for Proposals may change, potential applicants should use this notification as an opportunity to formulate potential projects. For more information, including commenting instructions, see the SNEP website<http://restore.buzzardsbay.org/grants.html>. Comments are due by July 22.



Job Postings

Coastal Habitat and Water Quality Specialist - CZM is seeking qualified applicants for a Coastal Habitat and Water Quality Specialist<https://jobs.hrd.state.ma.us/recruit/public/31100001/job/job_view.do?postingId=J48402&code=search.public&federalStimulus=no&companyId=9>. This position will contribute to CZM's programmatic work in coastal habitat and coastal water quality assessment and management, providing technical support for CZM's non-point source program, including the Coastal Pollutant Remediation Grant (CPR) Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/coastal-water-quality/cpr/>, and for various Coastal Habitat Initiatives including long-term monitoring and mapping of native and non-native species, wetland assessment, coordination of citizen science monitoring networks, and climate change adaptation planning. In addition, the Coastal Habitat and Water Quality Specialist will work with CZM's communications team to create innovative marine and coastal science related synthesis products. Applications are due July 20.



Stormwater Specialists - The Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/national-estuary-programs/buzzards-bay/>, which is administered by CZM, is seeking qualified candidates for two Stormwater Specialist positions-one full-time and one part-time. The full-time position<https://jobs.hrd.state.ma.us/recruit/public/31100001/job/job_view.do?postingId=J48487> will focus on providing technical assistance in an inter-municipal program that will collect and test water samples from stormwater discharges contributing to shellfish bed closures (both dry and wet weather flows) and map the collection network and catchment areas of discharges that have been identified as priorities. The job entails fieldwork, rainfall sampling, GPS data logging, and GIS mapping. The part-time position<https://jobs.hrd.state.ma.us/recruit/public/31100001/job/job_view.do?postingId=J48450> focuses on GIS database creation and management, stormwater design review, contractor management for stormwater designs, and assisting with municipal stormwater management efforts. This position also includes some fieldwork and sampling and requires a strong knowledge of local and state stormwater regulations. Applications for both positions are due by July 11.



Calendar

Boston Harborfest 2015 - From July 1-5, Boston will host an Independence Day festival that showcases the colonial and maritime heritage of the cradle of the American Revolution. Events include a fireworks cruise, the annual turn-around cruise by "Old Ironsides," Freedom Trail tours, scavenger hunts, and much more. For additional details and schedule information, visit the Harborfest website<http://www.bostonharborfest.com/>.



Nature Screen Summer Festival of Films - In July and August, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will host its Nature Screen series<http://www.ccmnh.org/Nature-Screen> with a summer festival of PBS Nature and Nova documentaries. Join the museum for these compelling, educational, and visually stunning documentaries that inspire appreciation, curiosity, and stewardship of the natural world and its inhabitants. On July 3, the museum will show Crash: A Tale of Two Species, by Brewster filmmaker, Allison Argo.



A Passion for Birds - On July 7, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present A Passion for Birds<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/A-Passion-For-Birds> with Performance Artist Henry Lappen. This comic, interactive, educational show uses realistic handmade masks to explore how different birds have evolved different shapes and behaviors to adapt to their environment.



Bayside Explorers - On Wednesdays from July 8 to August 19, Three Bays Preservation will hold Bayside Explorers<http://www.3bays.org/events/2014/7/10/bayside-explorers> at Dowses Beach in Osterville. Explore tidal pools and aquatic life during these events for all ages. Sessions are held at 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. each day.



Cape Cod Bird Club Walks - Through September, the Cape Cod Bird Club<http://www.capecodbirdclub.org/> will hold free bird watching walks throughout Cape Cod. The next walk will be held at Navigation Road in Barnstable on July 9.



Coastal Explorer Van - On July 9, July 16, and August 6, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present the Barnstable 4-H Coastal Explorer Van<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/2015-Coastal-van>, a 31-foot, handicapped-accessible motor coach that provides visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about Cape Cod's coastal environment. On board, visitors will find saltwater aquariums with live animals, computer and interactive games, a TV/VCR for viewing marine life videos, microscopes to view marine life, blue shark and dolphin models displaying both external and internal anatomy, and a hands-on exhibit. The van will be parked in the museum parking lot in Brewster from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on these days.



Great River Race - On July 12, the North and South Rivers Watershed Association (NSRWA) will hold the 2015 Great River Race<http://www.nsrwa.org/nsrwa-events/great-river-race-2015/>, a seven mile race along the South Shore's North River. NSRWA invites all to participate on a non-motorized vessel (canoe, kayak, paddleboard, row boat...). Proceeds from this event support NSRWA's work to protect and restore local streams, salt marshes, and the watershed.



The Alvin - On July 13, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will host a presentation by Bruce Strickrott<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/the-alvin>, Chief Pilot and Manager of WHOI's deep submergence vehicle, Alvin. Join Bruce for a rare look into the world under the sea. With more than 300 dives as pilot in command of Alvin, Bruce will take the audience on a journey of discovery in deep ocean exploration via images and video to some of the world's most interesting and exotic areas around the globe.



Summer Cinema by the Sea - This summer, the Northeastern University's Marine Science Center in Nahant will hold a free film series of marine-related documentaries. The July 14 show is DamNation<http://calendar.northeastern.edu/event/cinema_by_the_sea_damnation?utm_campaign=widget&utm_medium=widget&utm_source=Northeastern+University#.VUkrudpVhBc&utm_source=NUMSC+June+2015&utm_campaign=June+2015&utm_medium=email>, which explores the change in the national attitude about big dams as engineering wonders to the growing awareness of dam's effects on the life and health of rivers. All screenings are open to the public and will be held at 7:00 p.m. in the Murphy Bunker at the Marine Science Center, 430 Nahant Road, Nahant.



Digging into the Past - On July 14, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, as part of its Digging into the Past series, will present Attack on Orleans<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/Attack-on-Orleans> by author Jake Klim. On July 21, 1918, during the last year of the First World War, a new prototype of German submarine surfaced three miles off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and attacked an unarmed towboat and her four barges. A handful of the shells fired by the U-Boat's two deck guns struck Nauset Beach, giving the modest town of Orleans the distinction of being the first, and only, spot in the United States to receive fire from the enemy during the entire World War. Klim will chronicle the first 30 minutes of the 90 minute attack and celebrate the resilience of Cape Cod at war.



Birdwatching for Beginners - On July 16 and August 20, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History 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.



Sand Sculpting Festival - From July 24-26, the 2015 National Sand Sculpting Festival<http://www.celebrateboston.com/events/revere-beach-sand-sculpting-festival.htm> will be held at Revere Beach. Join the festival to stroll past giant sand sculptures, listen to free music at the bandstand, and watch Saturday night fireworks.



Stormwater Conference - From August 2-6, the StormCon: The North American Surface Water Quality Conference and Exposition<http://www.stormcon.com/> will be held in Austin, Texas. This conference features sessions on green infrastructure, stormwater program management, water-quality monitoring, erosion control, and others. More than 160 exhibitors will be on hand to provide information on current stormwater technology.



Hurricane Sandy Conference - From August 10-11, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will hold the Hurricane Sandy Conference<http://colorado.us1.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=b72140489b80a4574373938a1&id=35a42a9541&e=4051a4f944>, Translating Research into Practice, in New York City. This conference will discuss the research outcomes of a two-year series of Hurricane Sandy research grants. Topics include the varied research on Hurricane Sandy, strategies to build preparedness and resilience, translating research into practice, best practices in public health, and effective risk management.



Annual Antique & Classic Boat Festival - From August 22-23, Brewer Hawthorne Cove Marina in Salem will host the 33rd annual Antique & Classic Boat Festival<http://boatfestival.org/>, where vessels of all sizes and shapes will be on display, including 1900s-60s motor yachts, mahogany speedboats, sloops, yawls, schooners, and a 19th century gold-leaf canoe. This celebration of maritime heritage also includes a craft fair, artists, old-time band music, children's activities, the Blessing of the Fleet, and a boat parade.



Annual Swim & Fin-Save the Date - On August 29, Salem Sound Coastwatch will host the 10th Annual Swim & Fin Race for Salem Sound<http://www.swimandfin.org/> at Forest River Park in Salem. People of all ages and levels may join the event for open-water swimming races of three different distances: 500 meters, 1 mile, and 5K. Proceeds from this event support Salem Sound Coastwatch's work to protect local beaches, streams, salt marshes, and coastal waters.



Coastal Structures and Coastal Disasters Conference - From September 9-11, the American Society of Civil Engineers' Coasts, Oceans, Ports and Rivers Institute will hold the Coastal Structures & Solutions to Coastal Disasters Joint Conference<http://www.copricoastalconference.org/> in Boston. The conference theme is Resilient Coastal Communities. For program and registration information, see the conference website<http://www.copricoastalconference.org/>. Early bird registration closes on July 15.



Hazus Conference-Call for Abstracts - From December 9-11, the eighth annual Hazus User Conference<http://www.hazusconference.com/>, Hazus and the Emergency Management Life Cycle: From Practice to Policy, will be held in Atlanta, Georgia. Hazus is a nationally applicable, standardized methodology that contains models for estimating potential losses from earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes. Participants are encouraged to submit presentation abstracts on innovative Hazus-related applications such as the use of Hazus in flood, earthquake, or hurricane studies, international applications of Hazus, academic uses, or enhancements of Hazus hazard and exposure inputs. See the Call for Abstracts<http://www.hazusconference.com/get-involved/abstracts.html>, which are due by October 9.



MACC Education - The Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions (MACC) offers a variety of specialized education programs for the spring and summer. Visit the MACC workshops page<http://maccweb.org/edu_workshops.html> to see an overview of upcoming wetland delineation and soil science courses and shrub identification workshops, along with the soil erosion and sediment control training program. The MACC online education calendar<http://maccweb.org/edu_workshops_cal.html> provides a schedule of programs.



Walk Inside the Inflatable Humpback Whale - In July and August, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will allow visitors to walk inside a 44-foot inflatable humpback whale<http://ccmnh.org/Events/Inflatable-Humpback-Whale>. Learn all about the magnificent whale's behaviors and habits from the inside out. Registration is recommended.



New England Aquarium Professional Development Opportunities - In July and August, the New England Aquarium will offer professional development courses<http://www.neaq.org/education_and_activities/teacher_resources/professional_development/workshops/index.php> for educators to learn more about oceans and provide ideas for lesson plans. These summer courses equip participants with important science content information and hands-on activities.



Tuesday Tweets - Every other Tuesday through September, 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 and aquatic adventures for families. 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.



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



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

*         Free Saltwater Fishing Days - July 4 and 5 are Massachusetts Free Saltwater Fishing Days<http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/dfg/dmf/marinefisheriesnotices/2015-free-saltwater-fishing-days-6may15.pdf> (PDF, 111 KB). On these two days, no permit is required to fish recreationally in the Commonwealth's marine waters, out to three miles. Anglers looking for a spot to drop a line from shore or a boat ramp to put in a kayak, canoe, or larger vessel should check out the Office of Fishing and Boating Access Directory of Access Sites<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/fba/access-sites.html>. All other days of the year, saltwater anglers over the age of 15 are required to possess a Massachusetts Recreational Saltwater Fishing Permit<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/dmf/recreational-fishing/recreational-saltwater-permits.html>.

*         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 Paying for Stormwater-The Benefits of a Utility on July 7.

*         Teachers on the Estuary - This summer, Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (WBNERR) will offer the research and field-based teacher training program, Teachers on the Estuary. This program is designed to improve teachers' and students' understanding of the environment using local research examples. This year's program will focus on salt marshes and climate change and will run from July 13-16, plus a follow-up session in November. For more information, see the WBNERR website<http://www.waquoitbayreserve.org/education-training/education-programs/teacher-training/>.

*         Boating Safety Course - Through July 15, 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.).

*         Maine Beaches Conference - On July 17, the Maine Beaches Conference<http://www.seagrant.umaine.edu/maine-beaches-conference> will be held at Southern Maine Community College in South Portland, Maine. This conference provides opportunities for exchange of the most current information among diverse beach stakeholders and presents the findings from the state's beach monitoring programs.

*         Mudflat Mania - Through September 3, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will hold Mudflat Mania!<http://www.ccmnh.org/Mudflat-Mania>, twice weekly hikes to Cape Cod Bay to explore the life on and below the Brewster sand flats.



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.)

*         Baker-Polito Administration announces $40,000 for land protection in Mattapoisett (EEA Press Release, 7/1/15) -
http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2015/40000-for-land-protection-in-mattapoisett-announced.html

*         Neptune's Harvest honored for environmental stewardship (Gloucester Times, 6/24/15) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/news/local_news/neptune-s-harvest-honored-for-environmental-stewardship/article_b41e35ac-bd83-5850-8d47-4dc7fe0c89a3.html

*         Scituate residents get a lesson in storm damage prevention (Patriot Ledger, 6/17/15) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/article/20150617/NEWS/150616795/12662/NEWS

*         Scituate brings in experts to talk about coastal erosion Tuesday night (Patriot Ledger, 6/14/15) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/article/20150614/NEWS/150617736/12662/NEWS

*         Design competition imagines rising tide in Boston's future (Boston Globe, 6/11/15) -
https://www.bostonglobe.com/business/2015/06/11/the-boston-living-with-water-competition-inspires-creativity/bfeOVR3s1H5JyycYRpLxmL/story.html

*         Marshfield students consider erosion, flooding issues at Climate Symposium (Wicked Local Marshfield, 6/10/15) -
http://marshfield.wickedlocal.com/article/20150610/NEWS/150619731

*         Scituate vacation home gets additional $180,000 in federal funds (Boston Globe, 6/3/15) -
http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2015/06/02/federal-government-pays-renovate-oft-damaged-scituate-house-again/iFgxue4kfVredmsVT1MBLK/story.html



Other Items of Interest

National Flood Insurance Program Hotline - FEMA has launched a National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) call center pilot program to support policyholders with the servicing of their claims. Flood insurance claims can be complicated, and policyholders may have questions in the days and weeks following a disaster. Specialists will be available to assist policyholders with the servicing of their claims, provide general information regarding their policies, and/or offer technical assistance to aid in recovery. Call 800-621-3362.



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>.



Summer Science School - In July and August, the Waquoit Bay Reserve Foundation sponsors a Summer Science School 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/>.



Sandy Neck Junior Ranger Program - On Tuesday mornings from July 7 to August 4, the Barnstable Land Trust will host the Junior Ranger program<http://blt.org/sandy-neck-junior-ranger-program/> for kids 9-13 to explore the Sandy Neck barrier beach ecosystem. Junior Rangers who attend at least four of the five sessions will earn their badge by participating in outdoor hikes, identifying local plants and animals including endangered species, learning how to rescue marine mammals such as dolphins and seals, and most of all having fun. Space is limited.



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.



Wild Care Photo Competition - Wild Care Cape Cod, the wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center in Eastham, is seeking submissions for the "Natural Cape Cod" photo competition<http://www.wildcarecapecod.org/index.cfm?page=127&action=view&eventid=1141> that celebrates the beauty of Cape Cod. Amateur and professional photographers are invited to submit photos of Cape Cod beaches, forests, lakes, salt marshes, or anything that shows the natural places on the Cape. All proceeds support Wild Care's rescue and rehabilitation efforts. First place gets a sightseeing plane ride over Cape Cod. Entries are due by July 31.



Mass Audubon Photo Contest - Mass Audubon is holding its 2015 Picture This: Your Great Outdoors photo contest<http://www.massaudubon.org/news-events/photo-contest/>, open to all participants. They welcome striking digital images that highlight the beauty and diversity of Massachusetts wildlife, habitats, people in nature, and Mass Audubon Travel. Entries are due by September 30.







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=July%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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