[SEMCO] September 2015 CZ-Mail

[CZ-Mail at state.ma.us]

CZ-MAIL

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



Coastal Resilience Grant Awards Announced

On August 21, the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) announced over $2.2 million in funding through CZM's Coastal Community Resilience Grant Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/stormsmart-coasts/grants/> and Green Infrastructure for Coastal Resilience Grant Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/stormsmart-coasts/green-infrastructure-grants/> to advance local efforts to reduce risks associated with coastal storms, flooding, erosion, and sea level rise. Grants were awarded to Barnstable, Boston, Brewster, Chelsea, Dennis, Edgartown, Essex, Falmouth, Lynn, New Bedford, Plymouth, Quincy, Sandwich/Barnstable, Scituate and Winthrop. Projects awarded grants this year include support for assessing vulnerability to flooding and sea level rise, key steps for beach nourishment and dune restoration projects, evaluating structural and non-structural shoreline protection approaches, studying wave effects on sand movement, examining public infrastructure and natural resources at risk, and developing adaptation strategies. For more information, see the EEA Press Release<http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2015/grants-for-coastal-communities-announced.html>.



Help Make Your Favorite Beach Shine through COASTSWEEP 2015

COASTSWEEP, the statewide beach cleanup sponsored by CZM, celebrates its 28th year this September. Thousands of volunteers throughout Massachusetts turn out each year to collect marine debris, such as trash, fishing line, and any other human-made items, and record what they find. COASTSWEEP is part of the International Coastal Cleanup<http://www.oceanconservancy.org/our-work/international-coastal-cleanup/> organized by Ocean Conservancy in Washington, DC. The information recorded by participants all over the world is used to identify sources of debris and develop initiatives to reduce the problem. COASTSWEEP cleanups will be scheduled throughout September and October, and CZM is looking for volunteers for these cleanups, as well as coordinators to organize additional cleanups at local beaches and other coastal sites. As a cleanup coordinator, not only will you know that your favorite coastal spot is covered by COASTSWEEP, you'll get a t-shirt as a thank you for taking the lead. To find out more, see the COASTSWEEP website<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/communications/coastsweep/>, especially the Get Involved page<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/communications/coastsweep/get-involved.html> and the 2015 Cleanup List<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/communications/coastsweep/cleanup-list.html>, or check out COASTSWEEP on Facebook<http://www.facebook.com/coastsweep/>, Twitter<https://twitter.com/coastsweep>, and Instagram<https://instagram.com/coastsweep/>. Also, for more on becoming a local cleanup coordinator, see this Mass.gov Blog posting<http://blog.mass.gov/blog/living-in-massachusetts/seeking-local-beach-cleanup-coordinators-for-coastsweep-2015/> from CZM.



New Seaport Economic Council Announced

On August 10, Governor Charlie Baker and Lieutenant Governor Karen Polito announced the signing of Executive Order 564<http://www.mass.gov/governor/legislationexecorder/execorders/executive-order-no-564.html>, which transforms the former Seaport Advisory Council into a new Seaport Economic Council to be chaired by the Lieutenant Governor and administered by the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development with support from EEA. The Council will assist the Administration in prioritizing investments and innovation in creating 'blue' or ocean-based jobs, local maritime planning efforts, partnerships with public education institutions, and coastal infrastructure projects that meet standards of resilience and sustainability. The Council is represented by senior officials from EEA-Assistant Secretary for the Environment Dan Sieger and CZM Director Bruce Carlisle-as well as a representative from the Department of Transportation, municipal leaders, representatives from coastal communities, and trade associations for the maritime economy. A competitive grant program will focus on the five priority areas of innovation, public education, economic development planning, maritime sector strategy, and investments in coastal infrastructure. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. For more information see the Seaport Economic Council<http://www.mass.gov/governor/administration/groups/seaporteconomiccouncil/programoverview/> website.



MassBays Regional Service Providers Selected

The Massachusetts Bays National Estuary Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/mass-bays-program/> (MassBays) is pleased to announce grant awards to fund Regional Coordinators across Massachusetts and Cape Cod Bays. Each of the following organizations received up to $61,000 for Fiscal Year (FY) 2016: Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (Upper North Shore), Salem Sound Coastwatch (Lower North Shore), Northeastern University's Marine Science Center (Metro Boston), North and South Rivers Watershed Association (South Shore), and Association to Preserve Cape Cod (Cape Cod). MassBays Regional Coordinators provide technical assistance to communities working on stormwater and other water quality improvements, support and monitor habitat restoration, and provide outreach and education to a variety of audiences, all in support of the MassBays mission. To find your region's coordinator, visit the MassBays planning area web page<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/mass-bays-program/regions/>.



CZ-Tip - As COASTSWEEP Approaches, Learn to Recycle Common Marine Debris Items

What should you do if you find soda bottles in the sand on your favorite beach? How do you recycle Chinese food containers that wash up next to actual clamshells? With the array of different objects that end up on the shore, it can be challenging to figure out where to recycle marine debris you find by the sea. Plastic bottles and food wrappers can be picked up at your curb, but cling wrap and plastic bags may need to be taken elsewhere-and cigarette butts may be more recyclable than you think. To learn more about how to reduce, reuse, and recycle the most common marine debris found at beach cleanups before you join a COASTSWEEP cleanup this September and October, see CZ-Tip: Recycle to Reduce Marine Debris<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/communications/cz-tips/cz-tip-recycle.html>.



Grants/Funding/Proposal Opportunities

Ocean Acidification Research Funding - The Northeast Sea Grant Consortium, in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Ocean Acidification Program, is seeking proposals to address the impacts of ocean acidification (OA) on key resource species in the northeast (New York Bight to the Gulf of Maine) as an aid to assist coastal communities in adapting to current and future OA conditions in the region. For more information, see the Request for Proposals<http://seagrant.gso.uri.edu/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/1618_NESGC_OA_RFP.pdf> (PDF, 87 KB). Preliminary proposals are due by October 15.



2016 Healthy Estuaries Grant Program - In September, MassBays will launch the Healthy Estuaries Grant Program, a new small grant program to support local efforts to assess, restore, and protect habitat and improve water quality in the 47 embayments<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/mass-bays-program/estuaries/> of Massachusetts Bay and Cape Cod Bay. Formerly the Research and Planning Grants, the Healthy Estuaries program will build upon previous efforts that were recently compiled in a searchable inventory of plans and assessments<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/mass-bays-program/publications/>. For more information and to receive notice of the Request for Responses (RFR), send a request to Prassede Vella at Prassede.Vella at state.ma.us<mailto:Prassede.Vella at state.ma.us>.



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

*         Coastal Pollutant Remediation Grant Program - CZM is seeking proposals for the Coastal Pollutant Remediation (CPR) Grant Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/coastal-water-quality/cpr/>. For FY 2016, the CPR program will provide up to $400,000 to municipalities located in the Massachusetts Coastal Watershed to assess and remediate stormwater pollution from paved surfaces and to design and construct commercial boat waste pumpout facilities. As much as $125,000 may be requested and a 25 percent match of the total project cost is required. Projects may not exceed one year in duration and must be completed by June 30 of each year. For more information, to view the RFR, and download required forms, see the COMMBUYS website<https://www.commbuys.com/bso/external/bidDetail.sdo?bidId=BD-16-1042-CZM-ENV40-00000004811&parentUrl=activeBids>. Proposals are due by September 4.

*         Southeast New England Program Water Quality Management Grants - The Buzzards Bay and Narragansett Bay National Estuary Programs (NEP) are seeking proposals for nutrient, pathogen, and stormwater management projects within the Buzzards Bay watershed under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Southeast New England Program. Each NEP will award up to $900,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, municipalities, and other government agencies. Nutrient management projects addressing either nitrogen pollution to coastal waters or phosphorus pollution to freshwaters will be considered. Both large and small proposals are encouraged. For more information, including links to each RFR, see the Buzzards Bay NEP website<http://restore.buzzardsbay.org/grants.html>. Pre-proposals are due by September 15.

*         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.

*         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. 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. To explain applicant eligibility requirements, the types of projects that are eligible, and the non-federal cost-share, DCR and MEMA will hold two additional briefings in September for potential applicants. CZM strongly encourages all potential applicants to attend one of these sessions: September 15 from 1-3 pm at the MEMA Region III/IV Office, 1002 Suffield Street, Agawam; or September 16 from 10 am-12 pm at MEMA HQ Operations Room, 400 Worcester Road, Framingham. For complete grant details, see the MEMA website<http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/hazard-mitigation/grants/>. Applications are due by November 23.



Products/Publications

2015 State of the Bays Symposium Proceedings - In April, MassBays hosted 100 attendees at the 2015 State of the Bays Symposium<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/mass-bays-program/state-of-the-bays/>, which featured expert panels describing conditions and trends in human use, weather and climate, habitat, wildlife, and water quality in Massachusetts and Cape Cod Bays. The Symposium Proceedings, available in two formats, present graphics and summaries from the presentations and identify future data needs.



Meteotsunami Fact Sheet - NOAA has developed What is a Meteotsunami?<http://nws.weather.gov/nthmp/documents/meteotsunamis.pdf> (PDF, 520 KB), a fact sheet that describes these meteorological disturbances that can generate large ocean waves. This bulletin was created as a result of a meteotsunami that hit the coast of Massachusetts in June, 2013, causing significant waves and water level changes from Woods Hole to the North Shore.



Case Studies on Nutrient Reduction at Wastewater Treatment Plants - EPA has released Case Studies on Implementing Low-Cost Modifications to Improve Nutrient Reduction at Wastewater Treatment Plants<http://www2.epa.gov/nutrient-policy-data/case-studies-implementing-low-cost-modifications-improve-nutrient-reduction>, a report that documents efforts at non-advanced wastewater treatment plants (those not designed for nutrient removal) to improve nutrient reduction without requiring costly infrastructure upgrades. EPA found that in most cases, low-cost plant modifications reduced nitrogen discharge levels (ranging from about 20% to 70%) and allowed for better energy efficiency, lower operational costs, and improved process performance.



Climate Change Adaptation Tools Handout - EPA has developed EPA National Water Program Climate Adaptation Tools<http://water.epa.gov/scitech/climatechange/upload/EPA-National-Water-Program-Climate-Adaptation-Tools-Handout.pdf> (PDF, 145 KB), a two-page handout summarizing the tools developed by the agency for state, tribal, and local governments and others to adapt clean water and drinking water programs to a changing climate. Tools include a Storm Surge Inundation and Hurricane Strike Frequency Map, a workbook for Developing Risk-Based Adaptation Plans, a Flood Resilience Guide for Water and Wastewater Utilities, and a National Stormwater Calculator with Climate Scenarios. For more climate change and water resources, see the EPA website<http://water.epa.gov/scitech/climatechange/index.cfm>.



Green Infrastructure Report - Syracuse University, Cary Institute, and Harvard Forest, in partnership with the Science Policy Exchange have released Green Infrastructure: Lessons from Science and Practice<http://www.science-policy-exchange.org/gi-report>, a report that demonstrates the importance, as well as the limits, of green infrastructure. The report emphasizes that green infrastructure can provide many benefits for public health, local communities, wildlife habitat, and climate resiliency, but performance is dependent on many factors related to design, operation, and maintenance.



ESIP Newsletter - The June 2015 issue of the Gulf Pulse<http://www.gulfofmaine.org/2/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/ESIPNewsletter_Final.pdf> (PDF, 1 MB), the annual newsletter of the EcoSystem Indicator Partnership (ESIP), is now available. ESIP is a committee of the Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment that was created to better understand and convey information on status and trends in the Gulf of Maine ecosystem and the impacts of human use. This issue discusses data gaps, the status of development in the Gulf of Maine, and other important ESIP projects.



WHOI Newsletter - The August 2015 issue of the WHOI newsletter<http://www.whoi.edu/newsletters/aug15/>, a Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute (WHOI) monthly e-newsletter, features articles on summer seining in Falmouth, air travel and climate change, and other ocean science news, research, and events at WHOI.



Stellwagen Bank E-Notes - The August 2015 issue of Stellwagen Bank E-Notes<http://stellwagen.noaa.gov/library/enotes.html>, the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary newsletter, features articles on summer humpback whale sightings, tools to study whale health, and other sanctuary stories, news, and notes.



Marine Ecosystems and Management Information Service - The June-August 2015 edition of Marine Ecosystems and Management<http://depts.washington.edu/meam/MEAM42.html>, the bimonthly information service on marine ecosystem-based management from the University of Washington School of Marine Affairs, features articles on engaging the business community in ocean planning, marine spatial planning in St. Kitts and Nevis, and other notes and news.



Web-Based and Mobile-User Resources

Marine Debris In Your Region - The NOAA Marine Debris Program has launched the In Your Region page<http://marinedebris.noaa.gov/your-region> to help users learn more about current region-specific marine debris projects and activities. Marine debris issues vary from region to region and this site features an interactive map divided into 10 regions from the Northeast to the Mariana Islands.



Fishing and Seafood Lesson Plans - The NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries Curriculum, Lesson Plans and Activities<http://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/education/teachers/curriculum.html> web page provides lesson plans for grades 6-8. Among the many marine topics available are two that address fishing and seafood: Game of Life<http://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/education/teachers/pdfs/sustain_seafood_lesson1.pdf> (PDF, 144 KB), which provides information about the effects of overfishing on fish stocks, and Empty Ocean<http://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/education/teachers/pdfs/sustain_seafood_lesson2.pdf> (PDF, 140 KB), which examines information about sustainable seafood.



Climate Resilience Evaluation and Awareness Tool - The Climate Resilience Evaluation and Awareness Tool<http://water.epa.gov/infrastructure/watersecurity/climate/creat.cfm> (CREAT) is a software tool that can assist drinking water and wastewater utility owners and operators in understanding potential climate change threats and their related risks at their respective utilities. The tool also helps users evaluate adaptation options to address these impacts.



Ocean Exploration Digital Atlas - NOAA's National Coastal Data Development Center (NCDDC) has developed the Ocean Exploration Digital Atlas<http://www.ncddc.noaa.gov/website/google_maps/OE/mapsOE.htm>, a map-based atlas that links to information about expeditions of NOAA's Ocean Explorer program since 2001.



Calendar

Cape Cod Bird Club Walks - Through September, the Cape Cod Bird Club<http://www.capecodbirdclub.org/walks/> will hold free bird watching walks throughout Cape Cod. The next walk will be held at Peterson Farm in Falmouth on September 4.



Environmental History of Cape Cod - On September 6, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present John T. Cumbler<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/John-Cumbler>, author of Cape Cod: An Environmental History of a Fragile Ecosystem. This presentation will look at how Cape Codders have used the Cape's environment and how this use has changed over the last 300 years. A book signing will follow the presentation.



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. CZM staff will provide a presentation on the Massachusetts Coastal Erosion Commission's work to date.



Dune Shack Lecture - On September 12, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present The Grande Dames of the Dunes<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/Dune-Tramp-2015>, a new program created by writer and photographer, The Dune Tramp. Enjoy a lively narrative and extensive slideshow that captures the beauty and mystery of the outer Cape Cod dune shacks, past and present.



Cape Cod Wildlife Festival - On September 12, the Cape Cod Wildlife Collaborative is holding the 6th Annual Cape Cod Wildlife Festival<https://www.facebook.com/events/236869963096990/> in Barnstable. The festival showcases local environmental groups and is free to the general public. This year, the festival will feature two educational presentations with live animals from Rick the Creature Teacher and New England Raptor and Reptile, live music provided by The Gurus, local natural history authors, food, and many environmentally themed, interactive activities for families.



Sharks of New England Lecture - On September 13, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present Beyond the White Shark, Sharks of New England<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/Sharks-of-New-England> by Dr. Tom Burns. Dr. Burns has been photographing sharks for more than 20 years, focusing primarily on the sharks of New England. Beyond the species profiles, Dr. Burns will give the audience background on how he dives, photographs, and interacts with these different species.



Cape Cod National Seashore Advisory Commission Public Meeting - On September 14, the Cape Cod National Seashore Advisory Commission<http://www.nps.gov/caco/learn/management/advisory-commission.htm> will hold a public meeting at park headquarters in Wellfleet. Agenda items include an update from the Pilgrim Nuclear Plant Emergency Planning Subcommittee, the shorebird management plan and environmental assessment, a Nauset Spit update, and other items.



RARGOM Annual Science Meeting-Call for Abstracts - On October 14, the Regional Association for Research on the Gulf of Maine (RARGOM) will hold its Annual Science Meeting<http://www.rargom.org/annualsciencemeeting>, How is the timing of all things changing in the Gulf of Maine? in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The 2015 meeting will focus on the phenology (seasonal changes in plants and animals from year to year) of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem and welcomes papers that deal with changes in phenology of forcing factors, lower trophic levels, marine resources and other species, and fisheries. Abstracts are due by September 16.



Archaeology Lecture - On September 17, the Massachusetts Board of Underwater Archaeological Resources (BUAR) Director, Victor Mastone will present the lecture Drift Wood, Stone Circles, 3 Canoes, a Lost Lighthouse and a Piano at Barnstable Senior Center<http://www.townofbarnstable.us/SeniorServices/> in Hyannis.



Birdwatching for Beginners - Through October, 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. The next session is on September 17.



Cape Cod Bird Festival - From September 18-20, the third annual Cape Cod Bird Festival<http://www.capecodbirdclub.org/bird-festival/cape-cod-bird-festival/> will be held in Hyannis. The festival will include workshops on topics including counting birds in flocks, seabird identification, and snowy owls at Logan Airport. September 20 is Family Day<http://www.capecodbirdclub.org/bird-festival/family-day/> with bird banding, walks, and owl shows.



SepticSmart Week - September 21-25 is SepticSmart Week<http://water.epa.gov/infrastructure/septic/septic-Smart-Week.cfm>, an EPA initiative that provides outreach activities to encourage homeowners and communities to care for and maintain their septic systems. As part of the SepticSmart Home<http://water.epa.gov/infrastructure/septic/septicsmart.cfm> program, EPA will provide daily tips and outreach materials throughout the week to encourage better septic system operation and maintenance to avoid costly repairs, well-water contamination, polluted local waterways, and risks to public health and the environment.



BUAR Public Meeting - On September 24 at 1:30 p.m., BUAR<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/buar/> will hold its bi-monthly public meeting in the CZM Large Conference Room in Boston. The preliminary agenda includes discussion/approval of minutes for the May 28 meeting, renewal of five permits, review of two isolated find applications, and discussion of permittee, outreach, and research activities. For more information, contact BUAR Director, Victor Mastone, at Victor.Mastone at state.ma.us<mailto:Victor.Mastone at state.ma.us>.



Boston Harbor Educators Conference - On September 26, Massachusetts Marine Educators will hold the Boston Harbor Educators Conference<http://ma-marine-ed.org/mmeevents/boston-harbor-educators-conference/> at the University of Massachusetts Boston. The conference, Sharks and other Keystone Species, will feature lectures, education workshops, and a boat trip and tide pooling on Lovell's Island.



The Gray Curtain - On September 26, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present The Gray Curtain; The Impact of Seals, Sharks & Commercial Fishing on the Northeast Coast<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/The-Gray-Curtain> with educator, naturalist and author Peter Trull. Through discussion and images, author and field naturalist Trull will discuss and explain the relationship between commercial fishing, expanding Gray Seal populations, and Great White Sharks along the beaches of Cape Cod and the northeast coast.



Treasure Hunt Dive Competition and Picnic - On September 27, the Bay State Council of Divers will hold its 30th annual Treasure Hunt<http://www.baystatecouncil.org/BSC/Annual_Treasure_Hunt.html> dive competition and picnic at Stage Fort Park in Gloucester. The event will feature prizes, equipment demos, and food for purchase.



September is National Preparedness Month - Each September is National Preparedness Month, which is dedicated to educating and empowering Americans to be prepared in the event of natural or man-made disasters. On September 30, the America's PrepareAthon<http://www.community.fema.gov/> will be held, which will provide an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and communities to prepare for specific hazards through drills, group discussions, and exercises. For more information and to get involved, go to www.Ready.gov/September<http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwODE4LjM1MTMxNzAxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDgxOC4zNTEzMTcwMSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2ODg1NjYyJmVtYWlsaWQ9cm9iaW4ubGFjZXlAc3RhdGUubWEudXMmdXNlcmlkPXJvYmluLmxhY2V5QHN0YXRlLm1hLnVzJmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&100&&&http://www.ready.gov/September>.



Green Careers Conference - On October 1, the Massachusetts Green Careers Conference<http://www.massgreencareers.org/> will be held in Marlborough. Attendees will be able to connect with government, college, and business employers, and grassroots organizations.



Boston Harbor Island Regatta - On October 3, the Boston Harbor Island Association will host the 11th Annual Boston Harbor Islands Regatta<http://www.islandalliance.org/#!regatta/c159x> on a course around the Boston Harbor Islands national park area. Join one of the largest races in Boston, with more than 100 boats in 10 competitive classes, to help support the Alliance's initiatives for public programs and access to the islands.



Nahant Marine Science Center Open House - On October 3, Northeastern University's Marine Science Center<http://www.northeastern.edu/marinescience/> in Nahant will host its annual Open House<http://calendar.northeastern.edu/event/annual_open_house#.VdY5HflVhuA> for all ages. All are welcome to this free event that includes a tour of the building and research labs, a fieldwork obstacle course, touch tanks, a COASTSWEEP beach cleanup, and more.



CitiesAlive Conference - From October 5-8, the CitiesAlive: 13th Annual Green Roof & Wall Conference<http://www.citiesalive.org/> will take place in New York City. Join sustainable building professionals and speakers from across the design, development, planning, and utility sectors for tours, training and plenary sessions, and a trade show to promote living architecture in support of urban resiliency to natural hazards, including hurricanes, fires, floods, and food shortages.



Sea Grant Science Symposium - On October 6, the 14th annual Ronald C. Baird Sea Grant Science Symposium<http://seagrant.gso.uri.edu/special-programs/baird/#baird2015>, Sharing Practical Solutions, will be held in Narragansett, Rhode Island. This one-day conference will provide participants with information on the state of marine spatial planning (MSP). Panelists, including practitioners, policymakers, and researchers from both the public and private sectors will update participants on MSP initiatives, as well as provide their perspectives on how to sustainably integrate MSP into mainstream coastal and ocean management.



Crowds and Climate Conference - On October 6, the Crowds and Climate Conference<http://climatecolab.org/conference2015> will be held at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge. The event will feature presentations on how to tackle specific climate change challenges from MIT's Climate CoLab, an online community of experts and non-experts working together to develop proposals on how to address climate change. Presentations will be followed by an interactive workshop.



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 Winter Weather O&M for Green Infrastructure on October 6.



Coastal Issues in New England Conference - From October 14-16, the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association will hold its National Conference<http://www.asbpa.org/conferences/conf_fall_15.htm>: Broadening Coastal Perspectives in New Orleans. The conference will feature concurrent sessions on beach nourishment, storm surge, offshore sand resources, living shorelines, coastal modeling, coastal structures, resiliency, and much more.



MACC Fall Conference - On October 17, Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions (MACC) will hold its Fall Conference<https://maccweb.org/edu_fall.html>, Wetlands Replication and Restoration: Let's Get it Right!, at Devens Common Center in Devens. Presentations will be on success and failure of restoration projects, techniques to improve success rates, regulatory requirements, proper orders of conditions and monitoring, and general principle concepts and techniques of ecological restoration.



Dredging 2015 Conference - From October 19-22, the Dredging 2015 Conference<http://pianc.sites.usa.gov/>: Moving and Managing Sediments will be held in Savannah, Georgia. This four-day technical specialty conference will bring together professionals and practitioners from all parts of the world to discuss a broad spectrum of topics related to dredging. The conference will include presentations on many types of dredging projects, ranging from navigation channel deepening and maintenance to environmental restoration to the development of new ports and marinas.



Ocean '15 - From October 19-22, the Marine Technology Society and the IEEE Oceanic Engineering Society will hold the OCEANS'15 Conference<http://www.oceans15mtsieeewashington.org/>, Sea Change: Dive into Opportunity, in Washington, DC. Join more than 2,500 scientists, engineers, educators, industry leaders, and policy makers for technical presentations, tutorials, workshops, networking opportunities, and a product exhibition.



Oyster Symposium - From October 21-23, the 6th International Oyster Symposium<http://oystersymposium.org/> will be held in Woods Hole. The conference is designed to allow representatives from academia, industry, business, conservation, restoration, government, and cultural communities from around the world to share research, case studies, and projects relative to oysters.



Great Marsh Sea Level Rise Symposium-Save the Date - On November 12, the Great Marsh Coalition will hold the 4th Great Marsh Sea Level Rise Symposium: Great Marsh Communities in Action at Woodman's of Essex. This full-day workshop allows coastal decision makers and practitioners from the region to explore, share, and discuss various ongoing case studies of efforts to mitigate sea level rise impacts in the Great Marsh-the largest continuous stretch of salt marsh in New England, extending from Cape Ann to New Hampshire. Coffee and lunch will be provided. Stay tuned to the Great Marsh website<http://www.greatmarsh.org/> for details, including registration information. Pre-registration will be required.



MACC Education - MACC offers a variety of specialized education programs for the 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.



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.



Family Field Walks - Through September, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will hold a series of 90-minute Family Field Walks<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/Family-Field-Walks>. Museum naturalists will explain the various plants, animals, and other ecological features along the John Wing Trail.



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.



Morning Birding and Other Events on Plum Island - Throughout the fall, the Mass Audubon Joppa Flats Education Center<https://www.massaudubon.org/get-outdoors/wildlife-sanctuaries/joppa-flats> will host a Wednesday and Saturday morning birding series to explore some of Plum Island's most productive birding hotspots. The center also hosts numerous other fall events, classes, and education activities, such as training to be an education volunteer or learning how to band birds for research. For event and schedule information, see the Joppa Flats program catalog<https://www.massaudubon.org/get-outdoors/wildlife-sanctuaries/joppa-flats/programs-classes-activities>.



OneNOAA Science Seminars - See the NOAA seminar series website<http://www.nodc.noaa.gov/seminars/> for listings and details on NOAA science and climate seminars and webinars available across the nation.



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

*         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.

*         Flood Management Conference - From September 8-11, the Floodplain Management Association will host the 2015 Floodplain Management Annual Conference<http://floodplain.org/pages/annual-conference> in Rancho Mirage, California. The topic, Breaking Down Risk: Resiliency, Integration, Sustainability and Knowledge in a Climate of Extremes, will provide a forum for floodplain management experts and policy makers to address local, state, and federal regulatory and policy issues pertaining to flood risk management and planning.

*         New England Graduate Student Water Symposium - From September 11-13, the New England Graduate Student Water Symposium<http://www.ecs.umass.edu/eve/meetings/2015NEGSWS/negsws2015.html> will be held at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. This conference is for graduate students and research-active undergraduates from universities to come and present work in oral or poster presentations. All presentations will be by undergraduate and graduate students, but all are welcome to attend.

*         Massachusetts Soil Conference - On September 17, the first Massachusetts Soil Conference<http://worcesterconservation.org/massachusetts-soils-conference-47.html>: Know the Soil, Know the Land will be held in Rutland. Understanding soils is critical to conservation and land-use planning that supports sustainable agriculture, forestry, and greener urban, suburban, and rural communities. This one-day conference will focus on soil information resources available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Soil Survey. The conference will include classroom workshops and field demonstrations and is targeted at natural resource management and environmental protection professionals, agricultural commission and conservation commission members, farmers, and other land owners and managers.

*         Ocean Sciences Meeting-Call for Abstracts - From February 21-26, 2016, the 2016 Ocean Sciences Meeting<http://osm.agu.org/2016/> will be held in New Orleans, Louisiana. Conference organizers are seeking abstract submissions for oral and poster presentations on a wide variety of ocean-related topics. See the Abstract Submissions page<http://osm.agu.org/2016/abstract-submissions/> for details. The abstract submission deadline is September 23.

*         Managing Floodplain Development through the National Flood Insurance Program - From September 28-October 1, the Association of State Floodplain Managers and FEMA are co-sponsoring a free Managing Floodplain Development through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) course<http://www.floods.org/n-calendar/dayevents.asp?id=4830&type=3&date=9-28-2015> in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. This course will provide an organized training opportunity for local officials responsible for administering local floodplain management ordinances. The course will focus on the NFIP and concepts of floodplain management, maps and studies, ordinance administration, and the relationship between floodplain management and flood insurance.

*         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 1.



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.)

*         StormSmart Coasts: Protect your home from storm damage (Mass.gov Blog, 8/27/15) -
http://blog.mass.gov/blog/safety/stormsmart-coasts-protect-your-home-from-storm-damage/

*         Edgartown awarded funding for Fuller Street Beach restoration (Vineyard Gazette, 8/27/15) -
http://vineyardgazette.com/news/2015/08/27/edgartown-awarded-funding-fuller-street-beach-restoration?k=vg55e02b16935ba&r=1

*         Falmouth receives state funding to replenish Chapoquoit Beach (capenews.net, 8/27/15) -
http://www.capenews.net/falmouth/news/falmouth-receives-state-funding-to-replenish-chapoquoit-beach/article_b71c9cd0-4d21-11e5-a9dc-ff9048f5d73b.html

*         Maps counter residents' claims about Brewster beach (Cape Cod Times, 8/26/15) -
http://www.capecodtimes.com/article/20150826/NEWS/150829594

*         Plan for revetment in Chatham clears one hurdle (Wicked Local Cape Cod, 8/25/15) -
http://capecod.wickedlocal.com/article/20150825/NEWS/150829185

*         Replenishing of beach is hearing topic in Scituate (Patriot Ledger, 8/24/15) -
http://www.patriotledger.com/article/20150824/NEWS/150828078/12662/NEWS

*         Baker Administration announces coastal communities grants (CapeCod.com, 8/24/15) -
http://www.capecod.com/newscenter/baker-administration-announces-coastal-communities-grants/

*         South Shore: Three coastal communities receiving climate change grants (95.9 WATD FM, 8/23/15) -
http://959watd.com/blog/2015/08/south-shore-three-coastal-communities-receiving-climate-change-grants/

*         Communities vulnerable to climate change get $2m in state grants (Boston Globe, 8/21/15) -
https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2015/08/21/baker-administration-gives-million-grants-communities-vulnerable-climate-change/Wrn5ZnsZ1deeB0bRsRg5LP/story.html

*         Boston receives $350k grant for climate change preparedness (Patch.com, 8/21/15) -
http://patch.com/massachusetts/charlestown/boston-receives-350k-grant-climate-change-preparedness-0

*         Climate change grants awarded to Cape communities (Cape Cod Times, 8/21/15) -
http://www.capecodtimes.com/article/20150821/NEWS/150829885

*         6 ways to practice clean boating in Massachusetts (Mass.gov Blog, 8/11/15) -
http://blog.mass.gov/blog/recreation/6-ways-to-practice-clean-boating-in-massachusetts/

*         Plum Island COASTSWEEP cleanup set for Sept. 12 (Wicked Local Newburyport, 8/9/15) -
http://newburyport.wickedlocal.com/article/20150809/NEWS/150807131

*         Crabs and grass (Gloucester Times, 8/7/15) -
http://www.gloucestertimes.com/news/north_of_boston/crabs-and-grass/article_a59a1247-f020-5b3b-b2e7-389963efeec0.html

*         Baker-Polito Administration awards $1 million grant for Herring River restoration project (EEA Press Release, 8/4/15) -
http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2015/one-million-grant-for-herring-river-restoration-project.html

*         More than 400 acres preserved in Fairhaven, Mattapoisett, nature trail created  (SouthCoastToday.com, 7/29/15) -
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/article/20150729/NEWS/150729444



Other Items of Interest

National Climate Game Jam - NOAA is seeking host sites to participate in a national climate game development event (game jam). From October 2-4, teams will gather at these host sites to rapidly prototype game designs that make educational climate information accessible to a range of audiences. Participants will work to create a working climate game prototype in 48 hours. The Climate Game Jam offers a unique opportunity for educators, scientists, game designers and interested public members and students to work together on the development of climate game prototypes that span a range of platforms, topics, and audiences. For more information, see the Climate Game Jam website<http://climategamejam.org/>.



Marine Wildlife Internships - The New England Coastal Wildlife Alliance (NECWA) is accepting applicants for the Marine Wildlife Internship Program<http://necwa.org/internships.html>. NECWA accepts upper level high school, college, and graduate students who have an interest in the field of marine biology. NECWA interns work alongside staff members to conduct a variety of educational programs, research projects, and conservation activities. Internship positions are non-paid and can be coordinated privately or through a school or university program. Internships are available throughout the year.



Stellwagen Advisory Council - The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary<http://stellwagen.noaa.gov/> is seeking applicants for seven primary and seven alternate seats on its Sanctuary Advisory Council. For more information and to receive an application kit, see the Sanctuary website<http://stellwagen.noaa.gov/management/sac/documents.html> or contact Elizabeth.Stokes at noaa.gov<mailto:Elizabeth.Stokes at noaa.gov?subject=Sanctuary%20Advisory%20Council>. Applications are due by September 30.



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.



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



Campus RainWorks Challenge - EPA's Office of Water is pleased to announce the 4th annual Campus RainWorks Challenge<http://www.epa.gov/campusrainworks>, a green infrastructure design competition for undergraduate and graduate students. Student teams, working with a faculty advisor, will submit design boards, a project narrative, and a letter of support for a proposed green infrastructure project for their campus. This year, student teams are encouraged to incorporate climate resiliency into stormwater management designs. Winning teams will be awarded cash prizes. Registration opens September 1 and entries must be submitted by December 18.







Commonwealth of Massachusetts - Charlie 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=September%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. NA134NOS4190068.

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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