[SEMCO] April 2018 CZ-Mail

[CZ-Mail at state.ma.us]

CZ-MAIL

April 2018

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<https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-office-of-coastal-zone-management>. To subscribe to CZ-Mail, send a blank email to join-env-cz-mail at listserv.state.ma.us<mailto:join-env-cz-mail at listserv.state.ma.us>. Also, please feel free to share CZ-Mail with colleagues and friends-and if you have any suggestions for future editions or would like to make a change to your CZ-Mail subscription, please email your request to CZ-Mail at state.ma.us<mailto:CZ-Mail at state.ma.us?subject=April%202018%20CZ-Mail>. For daily updates from CZM, please follow us on Twitter<http://twitter.com/MassCZM>.



Baker-Polito Administration Files Legislation Committing Over $1.4 Billion to Climate Change, Environmental Protection, and Community Investments

On March 15, the Baker-Polito Administration filed legislation to authorize more than $1.4 billion in capital allocations to safeguard residents, municipalities, and businesses from the impacts of climate change. An Act Promoting Climate Change Adaptation, Environmental and Natural Resource Protection, and Investment in Recreational Assets and Opportunity<https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2018/03/15/An%20Act%20Promoting%20Climate%20Change%20Adaptation%2C%20Environmental%20and%20Natural%20Resource%20Protection%2C%20and%20Investment%20in%20Recreational%20Assets%20and%20Opportunity.pdf> (PDF, 478 KB) would put into law several key provisions in Executive Order 569<https://www.mass.gov/executive-orders/no-569-establishing-an-integrated-climate-change-strategy-for-the-commonwealth>, which establishes an integrated climate change strategy for the Commonwealth, including the Statewide Hazard Mitigation and Adaptation Plan<https://resilientma.com/> (a blueprint to protect residents, communities, and local economies) and the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) grant program<https://www.mass.gov/municipal-vulnerability-preparedness-program> (which provides funding to municipalities to complete a community-driven process to plan for, and build resilience to, climate change). Specifically, this new legislation authorizes $300 million to respond to and prepare for extreme weather, sea level rise, inland flooding, and other climate impacts. This includes funding for CZM's Coastal Resilience Grant Program<https://www.mass.gov/service-details/coastal-resilience-grant-program>. Additional funding is also included to support the efforts of EEA and the Massachusetts Departments of Environmental Protection, Fish and Game, Conservation and Recreation, and Public Utilities. For more information, see the press release<https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-files-legislation-committing-over-14-billion-to-climate-change>.



CZM Information Sessions on the Coastal Resilience and Coastal Pollutant Remediation Grant Programs

CZM anticipates the release of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 Requests for Responses (RFRs) for Coastal Resilience Grants<https://www.mass.gov/service-details/coastal-resilience-grant-program> and Coastal Pollutant Remediation (CPR) Grants<https://www.mass.gov/service-details/coastal-pollutant-remediation-cpr-grant-program> this spring. CZM administers both of these grant programs on behalf of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA). The Coastal Resilience Grant Program<https://www.mass.gov/service-details/coastal-resilience-grant-program> provides funding to coastal communities to reduce risks associated with coastal storms, flooding, erosion, and sea level rise through innovative and transferable local initiatives. Eligible projects include efforts to increase awareness and understanding of climate impacts, assess vulnerability and risk, plan for changing conditions, and redesign vulnerable public facilities and infrastructure. Additionally, both coastal communities and eligible nonprofits may seek funding for non-structural (or green infrastructure) approaches that enhance natural resources and provide storm damage protection. CZM's CPR Grant Program<https://www.mass.gov/service-details/coastal-pollutant-remediation-cpr-grant-program> provides funds to municipalities within the Massachusetts Coastal Watershed<https://www.mass.gov/service-details/coastal-pollutant-remediation-cpr-grant-program-eligible-communities> for a variety of projects that address local nonpoint source stormwater pollution issues, including water quality assessment, the design and construction of structural Best Management Practices (BMPs), and commercial boat-waste pumpout facilities. In advance of the release of the RFRs, CZM is hosting information sessions to discuss the goals and requirements of the two grant programs, answer questions, and provide feedback on potential project ideas. Two sessions remain:

*         April 3, 10:00 a.m.-noon, Ipswich Town Hall - Conference Room C, 25 Green Street, Ipswich

*         April 5, 10:00 a.m.-noon, Orleans Snow Library, 67 Main Street, Orleans

For additional assistance, potential applicants are also encouraged to refer to the contact information found near the bottom of these pages: Coastal Resilience Grant Program<https://www.mass.gov/service-details/coastal-resilience-grant-program> and CPR Grant Program<https://www.mass.gov/service-details/coastal-pollutant-remediation-cpr-grant-program>.



CZM and the Storm Team Help Assess Impacts of the Endless March of March Northeasters

Members of the Coastal Storm Damage Assessment Team (Storm Team) evaluated impacts from four of the northeasters in March. The Storm Team is led by CZM and includes trained personnel from state and federal agencies and local government who go out during and after moderate to major storms to conduct visual assessments of impacts on the coast. CZM received more than 1,040 reports on damage in 47 communities for the four storms. Reports for the March 2-5 northeaster include widespread beach and dune erosion, flooding, and overwash and erosion affecting coastal roads, buildings, and infrastructure. Damage to buildings was reported in Salisbury, Newburyport, Newbury, Rockport, Marblehead, Lynn, Nahant, Winthrop, Quincy, Hull, Scituate, Marshfield, Plymouth, Sandwich, Barnstable, and Brewster. Beach access structures and boat ramps were undermined and damaged or destroyed, and many floats, piers, docks, and boats were damaged or displaced. Damage to seawalls and other shore protection structures was reported in Rockport, Beverly, Marblehead, Lynn, Nahant, Winthrop, Revere, Quincy, Hull, Scituate, Marshfield, Duxbury, Plymouth, and Chatham. All reports were entered into StormReporter, an online tool on the MyCoast<https://mycoast.org/ma> website. CZM staff were in the State Emergency Operations Center on March 1-5, preparing for the storm and providing emergency support. For the March 8 storm, a portion of the Storm Team was again activated to assess damages. Erosion and flooding on roads and around buildings were reported along east and northeast facing shorelines, but it was difficult to determine if this storm caused any additional damage. For the March 13 storm, CZM activated 10 Storm Team members to assess damages. Reports included beach erosion, flooding of coastal roads, splashover of coastal engineering structures, water flow around buildings, overwash of barrier beaches, possible further damage to seawalls that failed in the March 2-5 storm, and possible additional damage to houses and buildings damaged in early March. For the March 21-22 storm, CZM activated portions of the Storm Team to assess damage. Minor splashover and erosion was reported north of Boston and along the north shore of Cape Cod. Flooding of roads and water flow around buildings was reported on the South Shore from Hull to Plymouth, in Chatham, and on Nantucket. In addition, erosion undermined roads, seawalls, and a bridge abutment in Scituate. Finally, there was significant erosion and overwash of low-lying barrier beaches in Scituate, Sandwich, and Chatham. CZM would like to thank the dedicated members of the Storm Team. Timely reports from team members help to inform decisions regarding state and federal resources needed to assist these communities with storm recovery and emergency planning efforts.



Grants/Funding/Proposal Opportunities

Coastal Resilience Grant Program - CZM anticipates the release of the FY 2019 RFR for the Coastal Resilience Grant Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/stormsmart-coasts/grants/> this spring. These grants fund local efforts to address the effects of coastal storms, flooding, erosion, and sea level rise. See the second item in this CZ-Mail for additional details.



Coastal Pollutant Remediation Grant Program - CZM anticipates the release of the FY 2019 RFR for the Coastal Pollutant Remediation Grant Program<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/coastal-water-quality/cpr/> this spring. CPR grants fund projects that address local nonpoint source pollution issues, including stormwater BMPs and commercial boat pumpout facilities. See the second item in this CZ-Mail for additional details.



Buzzards Bay Municipal Mini-Grant Program - The Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program is seeking proposals for the Buzzards Bay Watershed Municipal Mini-Grant Program<http://buzzardsbay.org/our-program/funding/>. Projects must implement a recommendation(s) in the Buzzards Bay Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan to protect and restore water quality and living resources in Buzzards Bay and its surrounding watershed. Eligible projects include stormwater remediation designs for discharges affecting marine waters, wetland/open space/habitat acquisition, migratory fish passage restoration, construction of boat pumpout facilities, and many other activities that support the management plan. A 33 percent match of requested funding is required, and only municipalities are eligible to apply. For more information, to view the RFR, and download required forms, see the COMMBUYS website<https://www.commbuys.com/bso/external/bidDetail.sdo?docId=BD-18-1042-CZM-ENV40-24963&external=true&parentUrl=bid>. Proposals are due by May 3.



Culvert Replacement Municipal Assistance Grants - The Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration (DER) is seeking proposals from Massachusetts municipalities for the Culvert Replacement Municipal Assistance Grant Program<https://www.mass.gov/how-to/culvert-replacement-municipal-assistance-grant-program/> to replace undersized, perched, and/or degraded culverts located in areas of high ecological value. The goal of this program is to replace old culverts with new structures that meet environmental design and structural standards along with climate resiliency criteria. Only projects that will meet the goals of the Massachusetts Stream Crossing Standards will be eligible for funding. Applications are due by April 6.



Parks and Conservation Grants - EEA's Division of Conservation Services (DCS) is seeking applications for the FY 2019 Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities<https://www.mass.gov/service-details/parkland-acquisitions-and-renovations-for-communities-parc-grant-program> (PARC), Local Acquisitions for Natural Diversity<https://www.mass.gov/service-details/local-acquisitions-for-natural-diversity-land-grant-program> (LAND), and Conservation Partnership<https://www.mass.gov/service-details/conservation-partnership-grant-program> 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. DCS will hold two workshops for the PARC and LAND grants-on May 16 in Amherst and on May 17 in Boston. PARC and LAND grant applications are due by July 12. Conservation Partnership applications are due by July 16.



Green Stormwater Infrastructure Outreach and Education Grants - The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), in partnership with Southwest Airlines, is seeking proposals to educate citizens on how to be active in the planning, design, implementation, and maintenance of green stormwater infrastructure projects in local parks. Grants of $10,000 will be awarded to three communities. For details, see the NRPA website<https://www.nrpa.org/our-work/partnerships/initiatives/water-conservation/great-urban-parks-campaign-pilot-projects/>. Applications are due by April 13.



BoatUS Grassroots Grants - The BoatUS Foundation is seeking applications for its Grassroots Grants<http://www.boatus.org/Grants/>. Up to $10,000 is available to local volunteer organizations to promote education on safe and clean boating. Applications are accepted year round.



Environmental Education Grants-Deadline Extended - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking applications for Environmental Education Local Grants<https://www.epa.gov/education/environmental-education-ee-grants> to support locally focused projects that increase public awareness and knowledge about environmental issues. Applications are now due by April 11.



Reminders - This opportunity, listed in the last CZ-Mail, is still available:

*         Marine Debris Removal Grants - The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, in partnership with Covanta Energy and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Marine Debris Program, is seeking proposals for Fishing for Energy grants<http://www.nfwf.org/fishingforenergy/Pages/2018rfp.aspx> to fund marine debris removal projects. Grants will focus on areas in United States coastal waters that have identified and prioritized derelict fishing gear reduction in state or regional plans. Priority locations include the Gulf of Maine in areas that are identified as priority for northern right whales. Full proposals are due by April 19.



Products/Publications

2018 Boaters' Guide to Tides and Pumpout Facilities - This wallet-sized pamphlet from DMF's Clean Vessel Act (CVA) Program contains information on the locations of pumpout facilities along the Massachusetts coastline and a June-September tide chart. Download a free copy from the CVA website<https://www.mass.gov/service-details/clean-vessel-act-grant-forms-and-pumpout-locations>. Limited hardcopies are also available. Email your request and mailing address to Cecil French at cecil.french at state.ma.us<mailto:cecil.french at state.ma.us>.



Microplastics Expert Workshop Report - EPA's Trash Free Waters program has released Microplastics Expert Workshop Report<https://www.epa.gov/trash-free-waters/microplastics-expert-workshop-report>, a report from a June 2017 workshop held to understand the risks of microplastics in the environment to human and ecological health. The report provides a summary of the workshop's expert panel discussion.



Global Risks Report - The World Economic Forum has released the 2018 Global Risks Report<https://www.weforum.org/reports/the-global-risks-report-2018>, an annual report that focuses on four areas of global risk including environmental degradation. The report finds that all five risks in the environmental category are ranked greater than average for both likelihood and impact over the next 10 years.



Beneath the Surface - The March 2018 issue of Beneath the Surface<http://give.whoi.edu/site/MessageViewer?em_id=3182.0&dlv_id=13043&pgwrap=n>, a newsletter from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), includes articles on a newly discovered penguin supercolony in Antarctica, the effects of freshwater from monsoons on the Bay of Bengal, a hatching dumbo octopus, and other news and updates from WHOI.



Coastal Impacts - The March 2018 issue of Coastal Impacts<https://app.robly.com/archive?id=3bfcee619e740f240630daf153fa6bf2&v=true&utm_content=b002c446ab97aa1a49c9d9b5faca5a70&utm_campaign=March%202018%20newsletter&utm_source=Robly.com&utm_medium=email>, the newsletter of Woods Hole Sea Grant at WHOI, includes articles on funding awarded to six new coastal projects, the swimming behavior of larval oysters, lowering the cost of flood insurance, and other Woods Hole Sea Grant news and updates.



Marine Ecosystems and Management Information Service - The March 2018 edition of Marine Ecosystems and Management<https://meam.openchannels.org/meam/issue/march-2018-115>, the bimonthly information service on marine ecosystem-based management from the University of Washington School of Marine Affairs, features articles on the changing Arctic climate, the proposed offshore drilling plan, and other resources and news.



HabitatNews - The March 2018 issue of HabitatNews<https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USNOAAFISHERIES/bulletins/1e0e71f>, a newsletter of the NOAA Fisheries Office of Habitat Restoration, includes articles on training veterans to assess and repair damaged coral in Puerto Rico, available fisheries science grants in Chesapeake Bay, and other marine fisheries habitat news.



Web-Based and Mobile-User Resources

FEMA PrepTalks - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has released a series of PrepTalks<https://www.fema.gov/preptalks>-video presentations by disaster experts that include a question and answer session, a discussion guide, and other related resources. FEMA suggests emergency managers share the talk videos with communities and relevant partners.



Disasters and Toxics Exposures Webinar - EEA's Office of Technical Assistance recently presented the webinar Preventing Toxic Exposures from Climate Change Disasters<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvFxXhAgG34&feature=youtu.be>, which describes the range of toxic exposures and mixtures of chemicals that can be released during climate disasters from water, air, and industrial sources. Listeners will learn how to prepare and protect communities and families during the next disaster.



Gulf of Maine Video - The Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) has released Sea Level Rise<https://youtu.be/-c0BATPsfNI>, an episode of the Institute's Gulf of Maine, Explained video series<https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3tOTGlQp_uGlMJU9eK3sQKwRmkeThfFr>. GMRI Science Education Program Manager Gayle Bowness describes more about sea level rise and how to help communities tackle this issue.



Microplastics Webinars - EPA's Trash Free Seas program has recorded an 8-part Webinar Series<https://www.epa.gov/trash-free-waters/trash-free-waters-webinar-series>, which analyzes the impacts of plastic pollution on human and aquatic life. The goal of this webinar series is to promote increased knowledge and understanding of the sources, distribution, and impacts of plastics and microplastics in the environment.



Marine Species Atlas - The University of Miami's Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences has released a new version of the Digital Atlas of Marine Species and Locations<http://damsl.org/> (DAMSL), a website that provides users with a view of the underwater world with photographs and locations of more than 3,500 marine species.



Keeping Massachusetts Beautiful - The latest episode of Keeping Massachusetts Beautiful<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6hqteCDxGk&t=1s>, a video series from Keep Massachusetts Beautiful, highlights the efforts of the Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC) with an interview of APCC's Executive Director, Andrew Gottlieb. Mr. Gottlieb describes how APCC has been working for the past 50 years to protect Cape Cod's ecosystem and natural beauty. The discussion features the challenges APCC is tackling, including climate change, coastal restoration, open space preservation, groundwater protection, and litter.



Public Comment

Please note: All official CZM requests for public comment are published in the Public Notices section of the Environmental Monitor<https://www.mass.gov/service-details/the-environmental-monitor>, the bi-weekly publication from the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) office.



Offshore Wind Scoping Meetings - The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has released a Notice of Intent (NOI) to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Construction and Operations Plan submitted by Vineyard Wind LLC for an 800-megawatt wind energy facility offshore Massachusetts. The publication of the NOI opens a 30-day public comment period. During this time, BOEM will conduct the following five public scoping meetings and accept comments:

*         April 16, 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m., Fairfield Inn and Suites Waypoint Event Center, Sealoft Room, 185 MacArthur Drive, New Bedford

*         April 17, 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m., Martha's Vineyard Hebrew Center, 130 Center Street, Vineyard Haven

*         April 18, 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Nantucket Middle School, Cafeteria, 10 Surfside Road, Nantucket

*         April 18, 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., Double Tree Hotel, Cape Cod Room, 287 Iyannough Road, Hyannis

*         April 19, 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m., University of Rhode Island, Ryan Center, Alumni Lounge, 1 Lincoln Almond Plaza, Kingston, Rhode Island

For more information, see the BOEM website<https://www.boem.gov/Vineyard-Wind/>. Comments are due by April 30.



Reminder - This Public Comment opportunity from the last CZ-Mail is still available:

*         Supplemental Information Filing for Boston's Downtown Waterfront District MHP - As noticed in the Environmental Monitor on February 21, the City of Boston submitted Supplemental Information for the Downtown Waterfront District Municipal Harbor Plan (MHP). The MHP was originally submitted on March 15, 2017, and the consultation period for it has been extended several times, with the last 30-day extension ending on February 19. In accordance with 301 CMR 23.04, the City has submitted this supplemental information<http://170.63.40.34/EEA/emepa/mepadocs/2018/022118em/pn/Notice%20of%20Supplemental%20Informatiom%20Filing%20for%20the%20City%20of%20Boston%20Downtown%20Waterfront%20District%20Municipal%20Harbor%20Plan.pdf> (PDF, 462 KB) for consideration. Submit comments by April 9 to the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management, Attn: Lisa Berry Engler, 251 Causeway Street, Suite 800, Boston MA 02114-2136.



Job/Internship Postings

Waquoit Bay Summer Research Intern - The Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (WBNERR) is seeking applicants for an unpaid Summer Research Internship to assist with field and laboratory work. The summer projects include: analyzing local water samples; calibrating water quality and meteorological equipment; monitoring salt marsh elevation, plant communities, and crab populations; and managing biomonitoring datasets and conducting preliminary analyses. Candidates should have at least two years in undergraduate biology, chemistry, or environmental science. For more information, including application details, see the WBNERR website<http://www.waquoitbayreserve.org/about/employment/>.



Rita Barron Fellowship - The Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) is seeking applicants for the Rita Barron Fellowship program<https://www.crwa.org/employment/rita-barron-fellowship> to work closely with the science and advocacy staff of CRWA on a variety of ongoing projects and programs while gaining real-world experience in fieldwork, water resource management, data analysis, and advocacy work. This Fellowship is a one-year, full-time, paid position. Applications are due by April 16.



Calendar

Coffee House Series at Waquoit Bay - In April, WBNERR will host the Research at the Reserve Coffee House Series<http://www.waquoitbayreserve.org/wp-content/uploads/2018-Research-at-the-Reserve_Coffee-House-Talks.pdf> (PDF, 315 KB) in East Falmouth, and each week, a different scientist discussing research happening around Waquoit Bay. Lectures are held from 6:30-8:00 p.m. and coffee and dessert will be served. The first lecture, What's Trending in Waquoit Bay<http://www.waquoitbayreserve.org/event-registration/?ee=705> by Jordan Mora, WBNERR Research Associate, is on April 3.



Aquarium Lecture Series - Through June 8, the New England Aquarium will host the Aquarium Lecture Series<http://www.neaq.org/learn/lectures/upcoming-lectures/>, featuring free lectures and films by scientists, environmental writers, photographers, and others. The next lecture will be on April 3 when science writer Todd McLeish will present Return of the Sea Otter - America's Cutest Animal<http://support.neaq.org/site/Calendar?id=107546&view=Detail>.



Sharks and Seals - On April 4, The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy and the National Marine Life Center will present Sharks & Seals - Mythbusting Our Fears<http://www.atlanticwhiteshark.org/events/sharksandseals> in Plymouth. The lecture will be a discussion of local marine research featuring Dr. Greg Skomal from the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries and Marine Mammal Researcher, Dr. Andrea Bogomolni. The talk starts at 6:30 p.m. and light refreshments will be served at 6:00 p.m.



Flood Mitigation Conference - On April 5, the Rhode Island Flood Mitigation Association will hold its Annual Conference<https://www.riflood.org/2018-conference>, Above and Beyond, in Smithfield, Rhode Island. The 2018 conference will focus on the use of natural and nature-based infrastructure for enhancing flood resiliency.



Gardening for Life - On several Sundays through April, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present Gardening for Life<http://www.ccmnh.org/Gardening-for-life> with experts from around the country in the field of gardening and landscape design. On April 8, landscape designer Kathleen Groll Connolly will present Grow Your Own Meadow, Large or Small<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/Grow-Your-Own-Meadow>.



Ghost Fishing Gear Webinar - On April 10 at 6:00 p.m., Ghost Fishing Gear: The Global Problem and the Global Solution<https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_BdYuG7YuRp-zkta_B7wVqQ> will be presented by Ingrid Giskes, Chair of the Global Ghost Gear Initiative Steering Group, David Parker, Vice-Chair of the Global Ghost Gear Initiative, and Joan Drinkwin from Natural Resource Consultants. Each year, millions of marine animals are killed by lost, abandoned, or discarded fishing gear or "ghost gear." In 2015, the Global Ghost Gear Initiative (GGGI) was launched to tackle this issue. This webinar will present details of this initiative and its three working groups.



Northeast Climate Science Center Webinars - This spring, the Northeast Climate Science Center (NECSC) will present its Spring 2018 Webinar Series<https://necsc.umass.edu/news/announcing-spring-2018-webinar-series>. On April 11, Tina Vidal from Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries will present Quantifying Variability in Fish Populations Due to Climate Change and Implications for Management.



Resilient Shores: Green Solutions Workshop - On April 12, a full-day workshop focused on the application of living shorelines for coastal resilience will be offered for local officials and consultants. The workshop will highlight the Living Shorelines in New England: State of the Practice<https://www.conservationgateway.org/ConservationPractices/Marine/Pages/new-england-living-shorelines.aspx> report recently released by The Nature Conservancy in partnership with the Northeast Regional Ocean Council. Through presentations and a field trip to three coastal bank stabilization projects along Pleasant Bay, participants will learn tips on designing, constructing, and maintaining nature-based projects to address coastal erosion and flooding. Please register<http://www.waquoitbayreserve.org/event-registration/?ee=709> for the free workshop at The Playhouse in Orleans. Space is very limited and lunch will be provided. The workshop is being offered by CZM, the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, The Nature Conservancy, and Wilkinson Ecological Design.



Legislative Breakfast on Regional Water Issues - On April 12, from 10 a.m. to noon, Watershed Action Alliance of Southeastern Massachusetts will hold a legislative breakfast, State of Our Waters<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__watershedaction.org_index.php_2017-2Dconference_2018-2Dlegislative-2Dbreakfast&d=DwMFaQ&c=lDF7oMaPKXpkYvev9V-fVahWL0QWnGCCAfCDz1Bns_w&r=o_J6Iiyx6NcPKUyFcIkWQZxxn4Lrd2R8sED8RsMnHzE&m=tK4LW9-0h_MPJyoZKAsIOHJAaLVCn56UjbzdfqHpIfU&s=6lNGZwFmyXKewyaklRyoUYe9c2kxCWl5C3AQX7Nn0U8&e=>, at the Massachusetts State House in Senate Room 428. Experts from the alliance and state senators will discuss regional water quality issues and plans to address them. The public is invited to attend; registration is requested<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__watershedaction.org_index.php_2017-2Dconference_2018-2Dlegislative-2Dbreakfast&d=DwMFaQ&c=lDF7oMaPKXpkYvev9V-fVahWL0QWnGCCAfCDz1Bns_w&r=o_J6Iiyx6NcPKUyFcIkWQZxxn4Lrd2R8sED8RsMnHzE&m=tK4LW9-0h_MPJyoZKAsIOHJAaLVCn56UjbzdfqHpIfU&s=6lNGZwFmyXKewyaklRyoUYe9c2kxCWl5C3AQX7Nn0U8&e=>.



Cambridge Science Festival - From April 13-22, the 2018 Cambridge Science Festival<http://www.cambridgesciencefestival.org/> will be held in Cambridge. The festival is a celebration of science, technology, engineering, and math. The festival is a multifaceted, multicultural event that makes science accessible, interactive, and fun. Dozens of family-friendly events will be featured throughout the city.



Northeast Fish and Wildlife Conference - From April 15-17, the 74th annual Northeast Fish & Wildlife Conference<https://www.neafwa.org/conference.html>, Leading with Science for Conservation, will be held in Burlington, Vermont, bringing together more than 500 natural resources professionals in the fields of wildlife biology, fisheries and fisheries management, information and education, and law enforcement. The event includes more than 50 workshop sessions, along with keynote speakers and poster displays.



Spring Family Field Walks - From April 16-20, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will hold Guided Spring Family Field Walks<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/Family-Field-Walks>. Naturalists will guide explorations focusing on the plants, animals, habitats, and other natural features along the John Wing Trail. These walks are about 90 minutes over somewhat challenging terrain.



Barnstable Land Trust Walks and Talks - This spring, the Barnstable Land Trust has scheduled several walks and talks as part of its Walks & Talks<http://blt.org/walks-talks-2017/> nature series. Join the Trust on April 18 for a talk on the Cape Cod Shoreline from ecologist and author Gil Newton.



Mystic River Earth Day Cleanup - On April 21, the Mystic River Watershed Association will hold the annual Earth Day Cleanup<https://mysticriver.org/calendar/2018/3/15/earth-day-cleanup>. Volunteers are needed to pick up litter and remove invasive plants from Torbert MacDonald Park in Medford during this family stewardship event. All supplies are provided.



Underwater in Salem Sound Lecture Series - Through April, Salem Sound Coastwatch will hold free monthly Underwater in Salem Sound lectures<http://www.salemsound.org/calendar.html> at Marblehead's Abbot Public Library at 7:00 p.m. on the last Wednesday of each month. On April 25, Alyssa Rosemartin from the USA National Phenology Network and Salem State University will present Signs of Spring in a Changing World - Viewing Climate Change through Phenology.



NEERS Spring Meeting - From April 26-28, the New England Estuarine Research Society (NEERS) will hold its Spring 2018 Meeting<http://neers.org/MEETINGS/NEERSmeeting/MeetingOverview.html> in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Meeting presentations will cover a variety of topics related to estuaries and coastal environments. On April 26, the meeting will feature the special symposium, Salt Marsh Response and Resilience to Changing Conditions - Prospects for Management, which will include a presentation by CZM's GIS and Habitat Specialist Marc Carullo.



Massachusetts Park Serve Day - On April 28, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) 12th annual Park Serve Day<https://www.mass.gov/service-details/park-serve-day> will be held at state parks and beaches throughout the Commonwealth. This statewide day of volunteer service helps to get Massachusetts parks and beaches ready for summer. Since 2007, thousands of volunteers have participated in dozens of projects, including picking up litter along ocean beaches, clearing debris from hiking trails, painting benches, and planting trees and flowers at park entrance areas.



Charles River Cleanup - On April 28, from 9:00 a.m. to noon, the annual Earth Day Charles River Cleanup<https://www.crwa.org/charles-river-cleanup> will be held as part of the American Rivers National River Cleanup. The event, which coincides with DCR's Park Serve Day, will bring out thousands of volunteers to help beautify the Charles River and its tributaries. Volunteers will pick up trash and clean the riverbanks at more than 100 sites from Bellingham to Boston.



Neponset River Cleanup - On April 28 from 9:00 a.m. to noon, the annual Neponset River Cleanup<https://www.neponset.org/happenings/events/quincy-riverwalk-cleanup> will be held in Canton, Dorchester, Hyde Park, Milton, and Quincy in coordination with DCR's Park Serve Day. Volunteers are needed to pick up trash at these riverside sites.



Berklee at the Beach - On April 28, the Surfrider Foundation's Massachusetts Chapter will hold Berklee at the Beach<https://www.eventbrite.com/e/berklee-at-the-beach-tickets-44092840874>, which will feature a concert by Berklee College of Music students followed by a cleanup of Revere Beach. All are welcome and all supplies will be provided.



Boston Harbor Ecosystem Network Meeting - On May 3, the Boston Harbor Ecosystem Network<https://cos.northeastern.edu/marinescience/outreach/massbays/bhen/> will meet in Boston. The agenda will feature presentations from CZM's Marc Carullo, MassDEP's Karen Pelto, and Matt Tessier from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. For more information, contact Carole McCauley at c.mccauley at northeastern.edu<mailto:c.mccauley at northeastern.edu>.



Herring River Talk-Save the Date - On May 3 at 6:30 p.m., the Friends of Herring River will present Wildlife of Herring River: Community Conversations About Science in the Herring River Restoration Project<http://www.herringriver.org/Events/Wildlife-of-Herring-River> at Mass Audubon's Wellfleet Bay Sanctuary.



Coral Reef Teacher Workshop - On May 4, WHOI will present Coral Reefs, Symbionts, and Climate Change<https://web.whoi.edu/seagrant/teacher-workshop-may-2018/>, a workshop for K-12 educators with Dr. Amy Apprill and Dr. Konrad Hughen from WHOI. Topics covered in this workshop will demonstrate the linkages between coral health and the environment.



Massachusetts Marine Educators Annual Meeting - On May 5, the Massachusetts Marine Educators will hold its 2018 Annual Meeting<http://ma-marine-ed.org/calendar/whoi-conference>, Understanding Our Changing World - Studies of Large Whales to Small Plankton, at WHOI. Dr. Chris Clark from Cornell University and Annette Brickleym, Education and Outreach Coordinator at WHOI's Northeast Shelf-Long Term Ecological Research Program, will present the keynote addresses.



Working Waterways Symposium - From May 14-17, the National Working Waterfronts & Waterways Symposium<http://www.nationalworkingwaterfronts.com/>, Keeping Waterfronts Working for the Next Century: Sustainability, Recovery and Prosperity, will be held in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This 5th national symposium will focus on issues faced by working waterfronts throughout the United States.



Science Communication Workshop-Save the Date - From May 16-18, the Boston Harbor Ecosystem Network (BHEN) will offer a Science Communication Professional Development Workshop at Northeastern University in Boston. Additional details will be available in early April on the BHEN website<https://cos.northeastern.edu/marinescience/outreach/massbays/bhen/>.



Mystic River Herring Run and Paddle - On May 19, the Mystic River Watershed Association will hold the 22nd annual Mystic River Herring Run and Paddle<https://mysticriver.org/herring-run-paddle>. This event consists of a 5K Run/Walk along the Mystic River Bike Path and a 3-, 9-, or 12-mile Paddling Race up the Mystic River. Compete in both the 5K road race and the 12-mile paddle race and be eligible for the Iron Herring Award for the male and female with the fastest overall time. Teams are encouraged for the 5K. Prizes donated by local businesses will be awarded. This is a family-fun event with children's activities, music, and more. Register<https://lightboxreg.com/mystic-river-herring-run-and-paddle_2018?func=&mobile=0> by May 1 to get a free T-shirt.



2018 Great Massachusetts Litter Cleanup - Keep Massachusetts Beautiful is seeking cleanup coordinators and volunteers for litter cleanups across the state this spring. Cleanup dates are flexible. For more information, visit the Keep Massachusetts Beautiful website<http://keepmassbeautiful.org/> or email info at keepmassbeautiful.org<mailto:info at keepmassbeautiful.org>.



Chemical Safety and Climate Change Preparedness Workshops - Through April, the Massachusetts Office of Technical Assistance will hold Chemical Safety and Climate Change Preparedness Workshops<https://www.mass.gov/guides/chemical-safety-and-climate-change-preparedness-resources-for-businesses> in partnership with Regional Planning Agencies. These workshops will provide hazardous materials users (many businesses, factories, vehicle repair facilities, labs, etc.) tools to prepare for severe weather events, comply with emergency planning regulations, and include toxics reduction in their emergency planning to avoid chemical spills or accidents.



Boat Safety Course - Through the spring, the Massachusetts Environmental Police will offer Boat Safety Courses<https://www.mass.gov/boat-and-off-highway-vehicle-ohv-safety-courses>. These free, state and nationally approved boating safety courses for boaters age 12 and older concentrate on the equipment and operating guidelines needed to enjoy boating in a safe and responsible way. All graduates ages 12-15 will receive a safety certificate that allows operation of a motorboat without adult supervision, as required by state law. All graduates ages 16-17 will also be allowed to operate a personal watercraft (jet ski, wave runner, etc.).



Science Seminars - The OneNOAA Science Seminar web page<http://www.nodc.noaa.gov/seminars/> provides listings and details on NOAA science and climate seminars and webinars that are available across the nation.



Buzzards Bay Walks and Events - The Buzzards Bay Coalition maintains an Events page<http://www.savebuzzardsbay.org/events/> with walks and other nature-based events hosted by numerous organizations and land trusts in the region. March events include lectures, nature discoveries, snowshoeing, and more. You can filter the events by town, month, or host and select topics, such as kid-friendly, volunteering, and more. The next event is Itty Bitty Bay Explorers: Water, Water Everywhere<http://www.savebuzzardsbay.org/events/itty-bitty-bay-explorers-water-water-everywhere-apr-04-2018/> on April 4.



Birdwatching for Beginners - The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History's Birdwatching for Beginners<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/Birdwatching-for-Beginners> with Gretchen Moran Towers presents basic skills designed to enable bird identification through sight and sound. Each session is followed by an outdoor venture to view birds in their natural habitat. The next session is on April 5.



Tuesday Tweets - The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History's Tuesday Tweets<http://www.ccmnh.org/Events/Tuesday-Tweets> are bird watching 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. The next session is on April 17.



Plum Island Morning Birding and Other Events - Into spring, the Mass Audubon Joppa Flats Education Center 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 winter events, classes, and education activities. For event and schedule information, search the Joppa Flats program catalog<https://www.massaudubon.org/get-outdoors/program-catalog#search:sanctuary=7>.



Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary Programs and Activities - Mass Audubon's Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary provides numerous nature walks, talks, and adventures. See the programs, classes, & activities page<http://www.massaudubon.org/get-outdoors/wildlife-sanctuaries/ipswich-river/programs-classes-activities> and search the program catalog<http://www.massaudubon.org/get-outdoors/program-catalog#search:sanctuary=3> for event and schedule information, such as winter solstice walks, vacation week family fun days, and tracking mammals workshops.



Cape Cod Walks, Lectures, and Events - Mass Audubon's Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary in Barnstable offer a variety of educational programs for children and adults. 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>.



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

*         National Watershed and Stormwater Conference - On April 10, the Center for Watershed Protection will hold the 2018 National Watershed and Stormwater Conference<https://www.cwp.org/2018-national-conference/>, which will address issues and emerging trends in watershed management and implementation. Designed for practitioners, regulators, water and sewer authorities, and stormwater managers from the public, private, and nonprofit sector, the conference will include national online sessions, along with local hubs to encourage more in-depth discussion, and networking.

*         Ceres Conference - From April 24-26, the Ceres Conference 2018<http://www.ceres.org/conferences> will be held in Boston and will focus on sustainable solutions to the challenges of climate change, water scarcity, and pollution. Ceres is a national network of investors, environmental organizations, and other public interest groups working to address sustainability challenges.

*         Annual Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference - From April 25-26, the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission, in partnership with member states and EPA, will hold the 29th Annual Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference<http://neiwpcc.org/our-programs/nps/annual-nps-conference/> in Glens Falls, New York. Join representatives from New England and New York, including the public and private sectors, academia, and watershed organizations, to share information about nonpoint source pollution issues and projects in the regions.

*         Sustainable Communities & Campuses Conference - On April 27, the 2018 Massachusetts Sustainable Communities & Campuses Conference<http://masustainablecommunities.com/2018-conference/>, Making Sustainability History, will be held in Plymouth. This conference will connect people, present best practices and resources, and discuss sustainability in communities and on campuses. Participants include government, grassroots, business, and education stakeholders.

*         Boston Area City Nature Challenge - From April 27-30, the Boston Area City Nature Challenge will be held as part of a worldwide City Nature competition. The goal of the challenge is for participants to document the most species in and around Boston. CZM staff will be monitoring for marine species, both native and introduced, at dock sites in the greater Boston area and will help to verify marine species records collected by others as part of this biodiversity challenge. For details and to join the competition, check out the Boston City Nature Challenge website<http://www.zoonewengland.org/protect/here-in-new-england/boston-area-city-nature-challenge>.

*         Sea Squirt Conference - From May 2-4, the 2018 International Invasive Sea Squirt Conference<https://web.whoi.edu/sea-squirt-conference/> will be held at the WHOI. The three-day conference will present current sea squirt research through presentations and posters. Topics will include biology, ecology, impacts, management options, and more.



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.)

*         More horse and carriage tracks have appeared on a Cape Cod beach. Here's what we know about them. (Boston.com, 3/16/18) -
https://www.boston.com/news/local-news/2018/03/16/noreasters-reveal-horse-carriage-tracks-on-nauset-beach-orleans



Other Items of Interest

Sidewalk Buttlers - Keep Massachusetts Beautiful is seeking municipal partners to receive free Sidewalk Buttlers<https://www.sidewalkbuttler.com/> for the collection and recycling of cigarette butts. During the 2017 International Coastal Cleanup, volunteers collected more than 1.8 million cigarette butts from the world's coastlines. Butts are the most prevalent item found during cleanups each year, but smokers do not have many options for their safe disposal and often toss them onto the streets and other public spaces. Sidewalk Buttlers can provide a convenient way for smokers to properly dispose of their butts. All receptacles come equipped with a tracking chip that syncs with a mobile app to help towns track collections. The cigarette butts collected can be recycled into other products through a partnership with TerraCycle. To learn more, see this National Geographic video<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VxMwKETtUg&feature=youtu.be>. Thirty five of these bins were donated and will soon be installed in Gloucester, Natick, Mansfield, and Hyde Park. Later this year, dozens of additional Buttlers will be available for installation in other communities. Interested communities should contact Keep Massachusetts Beautiful<https://keepmassbeautiful.org/who-we-are/contact.html>.



Science Without Borders Art Challenge - The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation, in partnership with the International Coral Reef Initiative, is sponsoring the Science Without Borders Challenge<https://www.livingoceansfoundation.org/education/science-without-borders-challenge/>-a contest focusing on ocean conservation through art. This year's theme, Why Coral Reefs Matter, celebrates the International Year of the Reef. Students are encouraged to create art that illustrates why coral reefs matter to individuals, communities, the country, and the ecosystem. The challenge is open to students 11-19 years old, with prizes of up to $500 awarded to winning entries. Entries are due by April 23.



Marine Art Contest - Massachusetts Marine Educators and Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary are seeking entries from students in grades K-12 for the 2018 Marine Art Contest<http://ma-marine-ed.org/mmeevents/marine-art-contest/>. Entries should be based on the theme, Exploring the Marine Biodiversity of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Winning submissions will become part of a touring exhibition and will receive cash prizes. Entries are due by April 27.







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=April%202018%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. NA16NOS4190100.

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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