Section 309 Assessment and Strategy documents

Coastal Zone Management Program Administration

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Section 309 Assessment and Strategy documents

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Coastal Zone Management Act
Section 309 Program Guidance
2016 to 2020 Enhancement Cycle

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
National Ocean Service
Office of Ocean and Coastal R esource Management

June 2014

Table of Contents
1. Overview of Section 309 Enhancement Program and Guidance ......................................... 1
About the Section 309 Enhancement Program .................................................................................................. 1
About This Guidance ........................................................................................................................................... 1

2. Timeline for 2016-2020 Program Enhancement Cycle ........................................................ 2
3. Allowable Uses for Section 309 Enhancement Program Funds ........................................... 3
Eligible States ...................................................................................................................................................... 3
Eligible Activities ................................................................................................................................................. 3
Allowable Costs ................................................................................................................................................... 4
Use of Sections 306 and 310 and Other Funding to Support Section 309 Strategies ......................................... 5

4. National Priorities for Section 309 Enhancement Program................................................. 5
5. Allocation of Section 309 Funds ......................................................................................... 6
Weighted Formula Funding ................................................................................................................................ 6
Projects of Special Merit ..................................................................................................................................... 7
Determining the Annual Set-Aside for Projects of Special Merit ........................................................................ 7

6. Assessment and Strategy Development Process ................................................................ 8
Phase I (High-Level) Assessment ......................................................................................................................... 8
Phase II (In-Depth) Assessment .......................................................................................................................... 9
Strategy ............................................................................................................................................................. 11

7. Stakeholder and Public Engagement ................................................................................ 11
Stakeholder Engagement .................................................................................................................................. 12
Public Participation ........................................................................................................................................... 12

8. Section 309 Assessment and Strategy Format .................................................................. 13
Introduction ...................................................................................................................................................... 13
Summary of Recent Section 309 Achievements ............................................................................................... 13
Assessment ....................................................................................................................................................... 13
Strategy ............................................................................................................................................................. 13
Summary of Stakeholder and Public Comment ................................................................................................ 13

9. Submission and Review of Section 309 Assessment and Strategy .................................... 14
Submission of Section 309 Assessment and Strategy ....................................................................................... 14
OCRM Review of Section 309 Assessment and Strategy .................................................................................. 14

10. Process for Revising Approved Section 309 Assessment and Strategies ........................... 16
Appendix A: Phase I Assessment Templates .......................................................................... 18
Wetlands ........................................................................................................................................................... 19
Coastal Hazards ................................................................................................................................................. 23
Public Access ..................................................................................................................................................... 29
Marine Debris ................................................................................................................................................... 33
Cumulative and Secondary Impacts.................................................................................................................. 36

Special Area Management Planning ................................................................................................................. 42
Ocean and Great Lakes Resources .................................................................................................................... 44
Energy and Government Facility Siting ............................................................................................................. 49
Aquaculture…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….53

Appendix B: Phase II Assessment Templates ......................................................................... 55
Wetlands ........................................................................................................................................................... 56
Coastal Hazards ................................................................................................................................................. 59
Public Access ..................................................................................................................................................... 63
Marine Debris ................................................................................................................................................... 66
Cumulative and Secondary Impacts.................................................................................................................. 69
Special Area Management Planning ................................................................................................................. 72
Ocean and Great Lakes Resources .................................................................................................................... 75
Energy and Government Facility Siting ............................................................................................................. 78
Aquaculture ...................................................................................................................................................... 81

Appendix C: Strategy Template ............................................................................................. 84
Appendix D: Types of Program Changes ................................................................................ 88
Wetlands ........................................................................................................................................................... 88
Coastal Hazards ................................................................................................................................................. 89
Public Access ..................................................................................................................................................... 90
Marine Debris ................................................................................................................................................... 92
Cumulative and Secondary Impacts.................................................................................................................. 92
Special Area Management Planning ................................................................................................................. 93
Ocean and Great Lakes Resources .................................................................................................................... 93
Energy and Government Facility Siting ............................................................................................................. 94
Aquaculture ...................................................................................................................................................... 95

Appendix E: Example Program Changes ................................................................................. 96
Introduction ...................................................................................................................................................... 96
Status and Trends of Inland Wetlands and Aquatic Habitats ........................................................................... 96
Adoption of Refined Coastal Goals ................................................................................................................... 97
Significant Coastal Fish and Wildlife Habitats ................................................................................................... 98
Beneficial Use of Dredge Material Contribution Fund ...................................................................................... 99
Model Post Disaster Redevelopment Plans .................................................................................................... 100
Metro Bay SAMP Urban Coastal Greenway .................................................................................................... 100
Guidance Document on Coordinated Aquaculture Permitting....................................................................... 101
Implementing Legislative Changes to the Shoreline Master Program Guidelines .......................................... 102

Appendix F: Example Stakeholder Questions ....................................................................... 104

1. Overview of Section 309 Enhancement Program and Guidance
About the Section 309 Enhancement Program
The Coastal Zone Enhancement Program encourages state and territorial coastal management programs
to strengthen and improve their federally approved coastal management programs in one or more of
nine areas. These “enhancement areas” include wetlands, coastal hazards, public access, marine debris,
cumulative and secondary impacts, special area management plans, ocean and Great Lakes resources,
energy and government facility siting, and aquaculture. The enhancement program was established
under Section 309 of the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA), as amended.
Every five years, states and territories are encouraged to conduct self-assessments of their coastal
management programs to determine problems and enhancement opportunities within each of the nine
enhancement areas—and to assess the effectiveness of existing management efforts to address
identified problems. Each coastal management program identifies high priority management issues as
well as important needs and information gaps the program must fill to address these issues.
Following this self-assessment, NOAA’s Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management (OCRM),
works closely with each coastal management program to further identify the high priority needs for
improvement within one or more of the nine areas. The coastal management program then develops
strategies, consulting with OCRM, to improve its operations to address these management needs. The
strategies provide a stepwise approach to reach a stated goal and lead to enhancement in the state’s or
territory’s federally approved coastal management program.
OCRM reviews and approves the Section 309 “assessment and strategy” document for each state and
territory and, after approval, provides funding under Section 309 to help them carry out those
strategies.

About This Guidance
This document provides guidance to state and territorial coastal management programs about the
Section 309 Enhancement Program for the fiscal year (FY) 2016-2020 assessment and strategy cycle and
complements the Section 309 regulations (15 C.F.R. sec. 923, subpart K). The guidance includes
information on these areas:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Timeline for developing the next round of assessment and strategy reports
Activities eligible for Section 309 funding
National priorities for the Section 309 Enhancement Program
Allocation of Section 309 funding
Process, format, and content for an assessment and strategy report
Public and stakeholder engagement process
Submission and approval process for assessments and strategies
Revision process for approved assessments and strategies

This guidance supersedes previously issued Section 309 Enhancement Program guidance.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

2. Timeline for 2016-2020 Program Enhancement Cycle
The table below outlines the schedule used in finalizing this guidance and in carrying out the FY 20162020 assessment and strategy process. If circumstances prevent OCRM or the coastal management
programs from being able to meet any of these deadlines—such as significantly delayed
appropriations—OCRM will adjust the timeline and send notice.

Timeline for Completion of Section 309 Guidance and Assessment and Strategy Development
July 1 States
OCRM issues draft Section 309 guidance

October 1 States

Week of January 20, 2014

Comments on draft Section 309
guidance due

March 14, 2014

OCRM issues final Section 309 guidance

June 30, 2014

Coastal management programs (CMPs)
begin developing their assessment and
strategy:
• CMPs engage key stakeholders
• OCRM and CMPs work together to
identify high priority enhancement
areas and develop strategies

July 1, 2014

October 1, 2014

February 1, 2015

May 1, 2015

OCRM provides comments to CMPs on
draft assessment and strategy

April 1, 2015

July 1, 2015

Final assessment and strategy due

June 1, 2015

September 1, 2015

August 1, 2015

November 1, 2015

Draft assessment and strategy due

OCRM approves final assessment and
strategy
OCRM issues federal funding
opportunity for FY 2016 Project of
Special Merit (PSM) Competition
(tentative)
Proposals for FY 2016 PSM Competition
due (tentative)

Late summer or fall 2015

Late fall 2015 (not before November 1, 2015)

CMPs begin carrying out FY 2016-2020
strategies

July 1, 2016

OCRM issues FY 2016 PSM awards

October 1, 2016
October 1, 2016

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

3. Allowable Uses for Section 309 Enhancement Program Funds
Eligible States
While participation in the Section 309 Enhancement Program is voluntary, OCRM strongly encourages all
states and territories to develop an assessment and strategy to improve and strengthen their federally
approved coastal management program (CMP). Only CMPs that successfully develop an approved FY
2016-2020 assessment and strategy will be eligible to receive Section 309 funding in FY 2016-2020.

Eligible Activities
The following activities are eligible for Section 309 funding:
1. Development of the Assessment and Strategy
CMPs may use Section 309 funds to develop their Section 309 assessment and strategy. This funding
may also be used to revise the assessment and strategy, as needed, during the five-year cycle.
2. Carrying out Strategies and Development and Submission of Program Changes
CMPS may use Section 309 funding to carry out federally approved Section 309 strategies that are
designed to lead to a program change. However, the program change does not necessarily need to
be achieved during the five-year assessment and strategy cycle because various political and other
factors may be outside the CMP’s control.
When appropriate, program changes should be submitted for incorporation into the state’s or
territory’s federally approved CMP (in accordance with regulations at 15 CFR part 923, subpart H).
Section 309 funding can be used to submit a program change to OCRM for review and approval if
the change was achieved through the assessment and strategy process.
A program change is a change to a state’s or territory’s federally-approved coastal management
program. Defined in 15 CFR 923.123, program changes include the following:
• A change to coastal zone boundaries that will improve a state’s ability to achieve one or more
of the enhancement objectives.
• New or revised authorities, including statutes, regulations, enforceable policies,
administrative decisions, executive orders, and memoranda of agreement or understanding,
that will improve a state’s ability to achieve one or more of the enhancement objectives.
• New or revised local coastal programs and implementing ordinances that will improve a
state’s ability to achieve one or more of the enhancement objectives.
• New or revised coastal land acquisition, management, and restoration programs that
improve a state’s ability to attain one or more of the enhancement objectives.
• New or revised special area management plans or plans for areas of particular concern
(APC), including enforceable policies and other necessary implementing mechanisms or
criteria and procedures for designating and managing APCs that will improve a state’s ability
to achieve one or more of the enhancement objectives.
• New or revised guidelines, procedures, and policy documents that are formally adopted by a
state and provide specific interpretations of enforceable coastal policies to applicants, local
governments, and other agencies that will result in meaningful improvements in coastal

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

resource management and that will improve a state’s ability to attain one or more of the
enhancement objectives.
OCRM does not consider the following types of state or territorial actions to be program changes:
• Increased staffing or staff reassignments that will not support or result in a program change as
defined above.
• Administrative or organizational changes that do not change or improve the state’s coastal
management program.
• Educational and outreach materials that are not part of a larger strategy to achieve a program
change as defined above.
• Research or mapping efforts that are not part of a larger strategy to achieve a program change
as defined above.
• Participation in coordination groups that are not part of a larger strategy to achieve a program
change as defined above.
• Technical or financial assistance to local governments that is not part of a focused strategy to
develop new or revised local coastal programs or implementing ordinances to achieve a
specified enhancement objective.
• Actual land acquisition or low-cost construction projects. (These activities are only eligible for
funding under Section 306A.)
Upon completion of an enhancement area strategy, CMPs must provide a summary of the
accomplishments to OCRM in the semiannual performance progress report. CMPs must also report
on all program changes achieved under Section B of the performance progress report.
3. Implementation of Program Changes
Section 309 funds can also be used to implement Section 309 program changes for up to two years
after the program change was achieved. Implementation activities include administrative actions to
carry out and enforce program change policies, authorities, and other management techniques,
including the development, collection, and analysis of measurable management objectives and
performance measures. After the initial two-year implementation period, CMPs must use Section
306 funding or other funds to support continued implementation of the program change. All
implementation activities need to be described in the strategy (see “Strategy Template,” Appendix
C) and must meet the following general requirements:
• Advance the objectives of a high priority 309 enhancement area for the CMP
• Relate to at least one 309 program change identified in an approved strategy
• Demonstrate cost effectiveness and technical soundness

Allowable Costs
Section 309 funds can be used for any of the following uses that support the attainment of a program
change and carry out one or more of the eligible Section 309 activities described in the “Eligible
Activities” section above:
•
•
•

Personnel costs
Supplies and overhead
Travel
4

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

•
•
•

Equipment (as described in 15 CFR part 24)
Projects, studies, and reports
Contractual costs including subcontracts, subawards, personal service contracts with individuals,
memoranda of agreement or understanding, and other forms of pass-through funding

As with all CZMA funding, Section 309 funding must adhere to OMB-Circular A-87, “Cost Principles for
State, Local, and Indian Tribal Governments,” and all other applicable grant and cooperative agreement
guidance that the Department of Commerce, NOAA, or OCRM issues.
Task descriptions that continue a previous year’s work must describe how the current task is different
from and builds on activities funded under the prior year’s award so that it is clear the exact same
activities are not being funded two years in a row.
Please note that acquisition and low-cost construction projects are not allowable costs for Section 309
funding.

Use of Sections 306 and 310 and Other Funding to Support Section 309
Strategies
CZMA Sections 306 and 310 funds, or other non-CZMA funds, may be used to carry out and implement
Section 309 strategies. However, activities supported with other funding sources must be distinct from
those conducted with Section 309 funding. Task descriptions, milestones, and deliverables must be
written clearly to reflect the distinct activities and outcomes that will be achieved under each section of
funding in a CMPs annual CZMA cooperative agreement.

4. National Priorities for Section 309 Enhancement Program
While the Section 309 Enhancement Program establishes nine enhancement areas, OCRM can choose to
designate one or more enhancement areas as “areas of national importance.” Designating areas of
national importance helps to further focus Section 309 funding and demonstrate a national impact for
the National Coastal Zone Management Program by aligning resources to address one or more critical
coastal management issues across the county. While not required to do so, CMPs are strongly
encouraged to develop one or more strategies to improve the effectiveness of their program in
designated areas of national importance.
For the FY 2016-2020 assessment and strategy cycle, “coastal hazards” is designated as the
enhancement area of national importance. Therefore, competitive “projects of special merit” funding
will be focused on projects that will further the approved strategies related to the coastal hazards
enhancement area. The annual federal funding opportunity, or FFO, announcement for the projects of
special merit competition may describe how some or all of this funding would be further focused each
year to address one or more specific coastal hazards issues, such as supporting hazards resilient
planning.
OCRM decided to designate coastal hazards as an enhancement area of national importance to align
with the “resilient coastal communities” emphasis contained in the office’s new 2014-2019 strategic
plan. The strategic plan was developed with feedback from various coastal management stakeholders,

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

including state CMPs. The state Section 309 work group that helped to develop this guidance also
identified coastal hazards as the highest priority enhancement area.
In addition to coastal hazards, OCRM may choose to designate additional enhancement areas of national
importance during the FY 2016-2020 assessment and strategy cycle to address new or emerging issues
that may arise. OCRM will work with the Coastal States Organization (CSO) and state CMPs to reevaluate
the designated areas of national importance, as needed. Additional enhancement areas may be
considered because of feedback from state CMPs or the CSO, changes in the strategic direction of the
office or NOAA, or other unforeseen circumstances, including changes in other federal funding programs
that may affect the niche the National Coastal Zone Management Program would like to fill with the
competitive projects of special merit funding. Any new enhancement areas of national importance
would be added to the list of eligible enhancement area strategies that this funding could support.
Additional areas of national importance will be announced in the annual federal funding opportunity for
the projects of special merit competition.

5. Allocation of Section 309 Funds
As required by statute, OCRM must allocate at least 10 percent of the appropriated CZMA Section
306/306A funding to Section 309, although this amount cannot exceed 20 percent of Section 306/306A
funding or $10 million, whichever is less. There are two types of Section 309 funding: weighted formula
and competitive projects of special merit. Each year, OCRM determines how much Section 309 funding
will be set aside for projects of special merit.

Weighted Formula Funding
Weighted formula (or base funding) is intended to provide a predictable level of funding over the multiyear strategy period to achieve core milestones. Because weighted formula funding is more predictable
than competitively awarded projects of special merit funding, basic functions necessary to achieve the
core strategy milestones, such as hiring full-time staff, should use weighted formula funding. Activities
supported using weighted formula funding must be critical to meeting the enhancement area strategy
milestones and goals and meet the following requirements:
•
•
•
•

The project is consistent with the approved assessment and strategy and advances the goals of
the strategy;
Costs are reasonable and necessary to achieve the objectives of both the project and the
strategy (see “Allowable Costs” in Section 3);
The project is technically sound; and
The CMP has an effective work plan to ensure proper and efficient administration of the project
(see “Strategy Template,” Appendix C).

OCRM allocates weighted formula funding to CMPs according to the size of their coastal population and
length of shoreline, and whether they have an approved assessment and strategy. Weighted formula
funding is determined by multiplying the CMP’s base allocation, determined by the formula at Section
923.110(c), by a weighting factor derived from OCRM’s evaluation of the quality of the assessment and
strategy. OCRM will assign a weighting factor of zero (0) to CMPs whose assessment and strategy is not
acceptable and a weighting factor of one (1) to CMPs with an acceptable, approved assessment and

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

strategy. See “OCRM Review of Section 309 Assessment and Strategies” in Section 9 for a more detailed
discussion on the criteria OCRM will use in determining each CMP’s weighting factor.

Projects of Special Merit
Funding for projects of special merit is intended to offer CMPs the opportunity to develop innovative
projects that will further the approved enhancement area strategies within identified areas of national
importance. Projects of special merit funding is awarded competitively and shall not be dependent on
long-term levels of funding to succeed. Projects shall further the objectives of an approved
enhancement area strategy but shall not be essential to meeting specific milestones in the strategy;
therefore, these projects are not expected to, by themselves, accomplish a program change.
These projects will be evaluated and ranked equally on merit using criteria identified within the
published federal funding opportunity notice. In general, the projects will be scored on merit, technical,
and financial criteria, such as the following:
•
•
•
•
•

Likelihood the project would help to make substantial progress toward achieving the program
changes and strategy goals of an approved strategy for an enhancement area of national
importance;
Likelihood that the project would result in improved management of ocean and coastal
resources and uses and provide public benefit;
Level of innovativeness;
Transferability of the results to solve coastal management issues in other coastal states and
territories; and
Past performance under Section 309; OCRM will notify any CMPs of findings of poor past
performance that may significantly affect the evaluation of projects of special merit proposals.

In the past, funding for projects of special merit was not intended to exceed 18 months. For the FY 20162020 assessment and strategy cycle, OCRM is exploring whether multi-year awards could be offered. If
multi-year project awards end up being feasible, competition for multi-year projects likely would not
begin until FY 2017 (the second year of the FY 2016-2020 strategy cycle). CMPs would still compete for
the usual one-year (not to exceed 18 months) projects of special merit funding in FY 2016. Beginning in
FY 2017, OCRM would hold annual competitions where CMPs would be able to submit proposals for
two-year funding. For multi-year proposals, applicants would be required to include project plans and
budgets for each year of the project.
OCRM will issue additional guidance for the projects of special merit competition annually in a federal
funding opportunity announcement. However, OCRM generally anticipates CMPs would be eligible to
submit two proposals per funding competition and would likely be able to request approximately
$75,000 to $250,000 per project each year. The federal funding opportunity will provide more detailed
information on the specific amount of funding available, availability of multi-year funding, eligible
projects, submission guidelines, selection criteria, and deadlines.

Determining the Annual Set-Aside for Projects of Special Merit
OCRM expects to consistently allocate approximately 85 percent of Section 309 funds to weighted
formula funding for each year of the FY 2016-2020 assessment and strategy cycle. While OCRM would
like to increase the amount of projects of special merit funding from approximately 10 percent of
Section 309 funding (general funding level for FY 2011-2015 cycle) to around 15 percent, the office will
7

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

carefully consider the total amount of appropriated CZMA funding when deciding how much to set aside
for these projects each year. Preserving as much Section 306 funding and core CMP activities as possible
remains a high priority for OCRM. Therefore, if significant cuts to the overall CZMA appropriation occur,
such as in FY 2013, increasing the set-aside for projects of special merit funding will need to be
reconsidered.
OCRM also recognizes that states with traditionally lower base funding require a minimum allocation to
support the goals and requirements of Section 309. Therefore, reductions for projects of special merit
may not be applied equally. OCRM will set a minimum weighted formula base funding of $75,000. 1

6. Assessment and Strategy Development Process
The assessment and strategy is a public document, prepared by CMPs, in consultation with OCRM and
key stakeholders. OCRM approves the assessment and strategy in accordance with this guidance.
The assessment must (1) determine the extent to which problems and opportunities for program
enhancement exist within each of the enhancement area objectives; (2) determine the effectiveness of
existing management efforts to address identified problems; and (3) identify high priority needs for
program enhancement. The assessment provides the facts for the CMP and OCRM to determine what
program improvements are needed. For this assessment and strategy cycle, the assessment process is
being broken down into two phases to enable CMPs to more easily target their assessments to high
priority enhancement areas for the program: Phase I (high-level) and Phase II (in-depth).
The strategy is a comprehensive, multi-year statement of goals to address high priority needs, identified
in the assessment, for improving a state’s or territory’s CMP. In addition to stating clear goals, the
strategy also lays out methods for achieving those goals that are designed to lead toward one or more
program changes (as defined by 15 CFR 923.123a ‒ see “Eligible Activities” in Section 3).
The subsections below describe the process CMPs should employ when developing their FY 2016-2020
assessment and strategy (Figure 1).

Phase I (High-Level) Assessment
CMPs will complete a Phase I (or high-level) assessment of their program in all nine enhancement areas
using the Phase I assessment templates provided in Appendix A. At the beginning of the assessment
development process, CMPs should carefully review the objectives of each enhancement area and how
the program assessed and ranked each objective during the previous assessment. The CMP should also
sit down with its OCRM program specialist to discuss potential issues and priorities for the program,
review the basic assessment process, and discuss how the CMP plans to engage stakeholders and the
public during the assessment process (see Section 9 for in-depth discussion of stakeholder and public
engagement).
New for this assessment cycle, the templates provide a variety of resources and tools to help CMPs
more easily respond to the assessment questions. A “Recommended Resources” section at the back of
1

Note that mandatory across-the-board funding cuts, such as the sequester in FY 2013, may necessitate OCRM establishing a minimum
weighted formula base funding of less than $75,000.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

each Phase I assessment template includes resources that may be useful to the CMPs when conducting
their assessments. In addition, many of the questions point to national-level data sets or tools that
provide quantitative information that can help inform the assessments. While this national data
provides informative baseline information, it can also be at a coarser scale or may not reflect the most
current information available in a specific state or territory. Therefore, CMPs should feel free to use
more recent state- or territory-specific data, if available, to respond to the questions. If CMPs choose to
use alternative data, they should cite the source of the data.
Some of the national data sets and tools are not available for all states and territories. If no data are
available for a specific state or territory, the CMP can delete the question from the assessment or
choose to respond in a more qualitative way using the best available information. If the data are only
available for part of a state or territory, respond to the question using what data are available, but note
in the response what areas are (or are not) reflected by the information reported. Each assessment
question provides additional instruction on how to respond.
Using their responses to the Phase I assessment questions, key stakeholder input, and their own
knowledge of the issue, CMPs shall rank the enhancement area as a high, medium, or low priority for
their program. While there is no clear “threshold” for what is deserving of a high, medium, or low
ranking, it should be able to pass the “red face test”; does it seem like a reasonable ranking given the
known problems and controversial issues, etc. related to that enhancement area? The priority ranking
should also reflect the suitability of Section 309, with its emphasis on program changes, for addressing
the underlying issues identified for each enhancement area.
CMPs will work closely with their OCRM specialists to determine the appropriate ranking for each
enhancement area. According to section 309(d)(1), the final determination of each program’s high
priority enhancement areas rests with OCRM. However, this determination will be made in full
consultation with CMPs during development of the draft assessment and with due consideration of
stakeholder and public comment.
If the enhancement area is ranked a medium or low priority, the CMP has completed its assessment of
this issue. For enhancement areas ranked a high priority, the CMP must continue their assessment by
completing an in-depth Phase II assessment.

Phase II (In-Depth) Assessment
For any enhancement areas ranked as a high priority after the Phase I assessment, CMPs shall conduct a
Phase II (in-depth) assessment using the appropriate Phase II assessment templates provided in
Appendix B to further explore potential problems, opportunities for improvement, and specific needs.
OCRM recommends CMPs select two to three enhancement areas for more in-depth assessment.
However, CMPs should work closely with their OCRM specialist to determine what would be most
appropriate for their program given their high priority needs and available resources. CMPs should keep
in mind that the high priority needs identified in the Phase II assessment will not only be helpful for
informing Section 309 strategies but will be used for other purposes as well. OCRM will rely on the
needs identified to inform annual and strategic planning for NOAA’s new integrated coastal office and
also plans to share CMP high priority needs with other NOAA offices and programs. Therefore, CMPs
should be as specific as possible when identifying needs.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

STRATEGY

ASSESSMENT

Figure 1. Section 309 Assessment and Strategy Development Process

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

After completing the Phase II assessment questions, the CMP identifies, in consultation with OCRM,
which enhancement areas it will develop a strategy for. There is no requirement to develop a strategy
for every enhancement area that was designated as a high priority. CMPs may choose to further focus
their strategies on the greatest opportunity for improvement and likely resources available to achieve
the strategy goals.

Strategy
As noted above, the strategy must address high priority needs for program enhancement within one or
more enhancement areas that were identified through the CMP’s self-assessment. The strategy
establishes clear goals and a pathway and method to reach those goals during the next five years. CMPs
should only develop strategies for activities the state intends to fund and work on given their
anticipated level of Section 309 funding. CMPs shall use the strategy template provided in Appendix C
for developing their strategies to ensure they include task descriptions, cost estimates, and milestones,
as appropriate. Strategies could either address a single high priority enhancement area or cut across
several high priority enhancement areas. If the strategy will address more than one enhancement area,
use the strategy template to indicate the enhancement areas that apply. The strategy template also
includes an evaluation component to help assess the overall success of the strategy at achieving its
goals.
Strategies must be designed to lead to a program change (see Item 3 in “Eligible Activities” in Section 3
for more in-depth discussion of what constitutes a program change). However, because of various
political and other factors that may be outside the CMP’s control, the program change does not
necessarily need to be achieved during the five-year assessment and strategy cycle. If the program
change will likely be achieved outside of the assessment period, the strategy needs to include an
alternative goal statement of what will be achieved over the next five years to gauge the strategy’s
success (See “Strategy Template,” Appendix C, for additional clarification on what a suitable alternative
goal statement would be). Appendix D provides additional guidance on the types of program changes
that could be pursued through a Section 309 strategy, and Appendix E provides examples of past
program changes and key steps used to achieve those changes through the Section 309 Enhancement
Program.
Enhancement area strategies must include estimated costs, a schedule, and a general work plan listing
necessary steps for achieving the strategy goals. Detailed information on annual tasks, budgets, and
work products will be determined through the annual award negotiation process. Detailed descriptions
of potential projects of special merit should not be included in enhancement area strategies. However,
CMPs should keep in mind the differing criteria for weighted formula projects and projects of special
merit in developing their strategy and when submitting projects for projects of special merit funding.

7. Stakeholder and Public Engagement
The CZMA places a strong emphasis on public participation and encourages the participation,
coordination, and cooperation with and among appropriate local, state, federal, and regional groups to
help carry out the goals of the CZMA. In keeping with the intent of the CZMA, the assessment and
strategy is a public document. CMPs should provide opportunities for key stakeholders and the public to
be engaged in and help inform the development of the assessment and strategy.
11

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Stakeholder Engagement
At the beginning of the assessment and strategy development process, the CMP should identify a few
key stakeholder groups to engage. The stakeholders should provide feedback on what they feel are the
high priority enhancement areas for the state’s or territory’s coastal zone, the critical problems related
to those priority areas, and the greatest opportunities for the CMP to strengthen and enhance its
program to more effectively address those problems. This would ensure that the priorities and needs
proposed in the assessment and strategy reflect more than just CMP staff opinions. The CMP knows its
stakeholder groups best and how to effectively engage them in the assessment and strategy
development process, so CMPs have great latitude in how they would like to engage key stakeholders
and who those key stakeholders should be. Stakeholder engagement could be done informally through
individual conversations or meetings or more formally through a specific questionnaire the CMP sends
to stakeholder groups. For example, the CMP could piggy-back onto existing meetings with different
stakeholder groups to ask partners about coastal management priorities and needs.
Regardless of how the stakeholder input is captured, the CMP must document the groups or individuals
they engaged and briefly summarize the relevant feedback received that is useful for informing the
development of the assessment and strategy. For example, a brief one-page summary of stakeholder
input would be appropriate noting which stakeholder groups the CMP engaged, how the program
engaged them, and any common (or perhaps some divergent) ideas and priorities that emerged. The
CMP can then use the stakeholder feedback to support assessment conclusions, why or why not a
particular enhancement area should (or should not) be a priority for the state, and why a particular
strategy is needed. It is likely that feedback from different stakeholder groups may conflict with one
another or with the CMP’s final identification of priority needs and enhancement areas. That is okay. As
the assessment templates note, the CMP should simply include an explanation as to why the
enhancement area received the priority ranking it did and why the CMP chose (or did not choose) to
develop a strategy for any high priority enhancement areas. (See “Summary of Stakeholder and Public
Comment” in Section 8 and assessment templates in Appendixes A and B for additional discussion of
how stakeholder feedback should be captured in the assessment document.) Appendix F provides
examples of some questions the CMP may wish to ask stakeholders.

Public Participation
General public participation in the assessment and strategy process can take many forms. However, at a
minimum, the public must have an opportunity to review and comment on the document. CMPs should
provide adequate public notice, make the assessment and strategy document publically available, and
ensure that a minimum 30-day public comment period is provided. CMPs may hold the public review
period concurrently with OCRM’s review of the draft submission. The public review process does not
require formal public hearings and may occur in many ways, including public comment websites,
advisory committees, commission meetings, or informal public workshops. CMPs are encouraged to use
the Internet to make the document widely available for public comments. A brief (1-2 page) summary of
all relevant public comments must be included with the final assessment and strategy. (See also
“Summary of Stakeholder and Public Comment” in Section 8.) For example, the CMP could list who
provided comments and note some general themes that emerged from the commenters. OCRM
recognizes that comments received during a public comment period may be wide-ranging and may not
always be relevant to the specific focus and goal of the Section 309 assessment and strategy. Therefore,
the CMP only needs to include a brief summary of those comments that are relevant to the assessment
and strategy development process.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

8. Section 309 Assessment and Strategy Format
The assessment and strategy shall be submitted as a single document and contain the following
sections.

Introduction
The assessment and strategy is a public document. Therefore, the introduction should include a brief
description of the National Coastal Zone Management Program and Section 309 Enhancement Program,
including the purpose of the assessment and strategy. It should also summarize how the CMP developed
the assessment and strategy, engaged stakeholders, and allowed the public to review and comment.

Summary of Recent Section 309 Achievements
CMPs should provide a brief summary of completed efforts under the Section 309 Enhancement
Program since the last assessment and strategy. This section should clearly identify and summarize
program changes and other major accomplishments completed under previous strategies that may have
come to fruition during the past five years. While most accomplishments will likely be from the 20112015 assessment cycle, there could be program changes from earlier assessment periods that were
finally achieved during the past five years. For program changes that were formally submitted to OCRM
in accordance with the program change regulations at 15 CFR part 923, subpart H, note the date that
the change was approved by OCRM. If the program intends to submit a formal program change for
OCRM’s review and approval, identify the expected submission date.

Assessment
The assessment section responds to the Phase I assessment questions for each of the nine enhancement
areas and the Phase II assessment questions for the high priority enhancement areas (see Appendixes A
and B and discussion of the assessment development process in Section 6). CMPs should rely on existing
data and information, when possible, to complete the enhancement area assessment. Answers should
be succinct and can include provided tables, figures, and bulleted text as long as sufficient information is
provided to respond to each question. Additional reports or studies that support the responses should
be cited and web links included, as appropriate.

Strategy
This section establishes a clear strategy (or strategies) the CMP plans to pursue during the five-year
strategy period based on the management needs identified in the assessment for one or more of its high
priority enhancement areas. The CMPs must use the strategy template provided in Appendix C.
Enhancement area strategies should include enough information for OCRM to determine whether (1)
the proposed program change or implementation activity adequately addresses the needs identified in
the assessment, and (2) the program’s work plan to achieve the program change is appropriate and
cost-effective.

Summary of Stakeholder and Public Comment
This section provides a list of the stakeholder groups or individuals engaged during the assessment
development process and a brief summary of their feedback. It also provides a summary of the public
comments received during the public comment period and how the CMP responded to those comments.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

9. Submission and Review of Section 309 Assessment and Strategy
Submission of Section 309 Assessment and Strategy
CMPs shall submit the assessment and strategy electronically by email to their OCRM program
specialists (See Section 2 for submission dates). It should be submitted as a single document using the
format and templates provided in this guidance.
While CMPs should be working closely with their program specialists throughout the development of
the assessment and strategy, CMPs are asked to submit a draft assessment and strategy for OCRM to
review. OCRM will recommend how the assessment and strategy could be strengthened and identify
any concerns that may result in a ranking of “not acceptable” to allow the program an opportunity to
make revisions before final submission.

OCRM Review of Section 309 Assessment and Strategy
OCRM will review the final assessment and strategy for compliance with this guidance and rank it as
either “acceptable” or “not acceptable.” CMPs that receive an acceptable ranking will receive funding
under the standard allocation formula described at 15 C.F.R. 927.1(c) and be eligible to compete for
additional project of special merit funding. CMPs that receive a ranking of “not acceptable” will not be
eligible to receive weighted formula Section 309 funding or compete for project of special merit funding.
CMPs that receive a “not acceptable” ranking will have the opportunity to submit a revised assessment
and strategy for approval during the following fiscal year. The CMP would be eligible for Section 309
funding once its assessment and strategy is ranked “acceptable.”
OCRM will evaluate each assessment and strategy individually using the criteria identified below. This
evaluation will occur solely within the context of the state’s or territory’s existing CMP and governance
structure, as well as its coastal management needs.
Assessment Evaluation Criteria:
•
•

•

•
•

Have Phase I (high-level) assessments been completed for all nine enhancement areas using the
templates provided in Appendix A, and have all applicable questions been answered
satisfactorily?
Have one or more high-priority enhancement areas been identified for more in-depth (Phase II)
assessments? Are the high-priority enhancement areas warranted according to available
information, including knowledge of the CMP, coastal issues in the state or territory, and
stakeholder feedback?
Have Phase II (In-depth) assessments been completed for all high priority enhancement areas
using the templates provided in Appendix B, and have all applicable questions been answered
satisfactorily?
Has the assessment identified which enhancement areas the CMP will develop a strategy for
and provided a reasonable explanation as to why a strategy will or will not be developed?
Does the assessment and strategy briefly describe the stakeholder groups engaged and provide
a summary of key stakeholder and public feedback received?

Strategy Evaluation Criteria:

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

1. Scope and Value
In evaluating the scope and value of a strategy, OCRM will consider the following factors:
•
•
•

Has the strategy identified a clear goal(s)?
Does the strategy provide tangible benefits and quantifiable improvements to coastal resource
management to address priority needs identified in the assessment? Examples are: increases in
wetland protection and restoration, increases in public access ways and site improvements, etc.
Does the strategy provide qualitative coastal resource management improvements to address
priority needs identified in the assessment?

In applying these criteria, OCRM recognizes that it may be difficult to determine the quantitative and
qualitative values of some strategies, particularly in cases where broad institutional improvements are
proposed. CMPs should provide the best possible descriptions of the benefits of the proposed activities.
2. Technical Merit
In reviewing the strategy work plan component, OCRM will consider the following questions:
•

•

•
•

Is the strategy work plan an appropriate means for effectively and efficiently achieving the
strategy goals and addressing priority needs identified in the assessment? Are the appropriate
tools or mechanisms (planning, regulation, management) being applied at the right level of
government (state, regional, local) to address the need?
Is the work plan comprehensive in overall design, personnel, funding, and organization? Does it
include appropriate activities related to data collection and synthesis, issue development, and
public involvement? Does the work plan include sufficient information to gauge progress toward
attaining the proposed program change and strategy goals?
Does the work plan schedule reflect the most effective and logical approach to enacting or
implementing the program change? Does the work plan include suitable milestones and
outcomes for assessing progress?
Is the work plan cost-effective? Are the costs of developing or implementing the strategy
commensurate with the value of the proposed improvement in coastal resources or
management?

3. Likelihood of Success
In evaluating the likelihood of attaining or implementing the program change and strategy goals, OCRM
will consider the following factors:
•
•
•

What is the nature and degree of existing support for the strategy?
How well does the strategy maintain and build future support and consensus for the proposed
program change?
What is the CMP’s past performance under Section 309?

4. Technical and Fiscal Need
OCRM will consider the technical and fiscal needs described in the strategy. When providing information
about technical needs, CMPs should describe the extent to which a state lacks trained personnel or
equipment to complete a project. CMPs should also adequately describe fiscal needs, including the
extent to which a state must rely solely on federal funds to complete a project because state funds are
not otherwise available.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

10. Process for Revising Approved Section 309 Assessment
and Strategies
State and territory CMPs should strive to identify high priority needs and well-thought out strategies to
address those needs over the next five years. However, OCRM recognizes that unforeseen
circumstances can arise that may require a CMP to revise its approved Section 309 assessment and
strategy. Any change to an enhancement area priority ranking and substantive changes to the strategy,
including strategy work plans, must be submitted for OCRM approval before Section 309 funds can be
used for these revised activities. Substantive changes include:
•
•
•

A change in the priority ranking of an enhancement area;
A significant change to the final goal, milestones, products, or program change originally
proposed in an existing strategy 2; or
An addition of a new strategy.

CMPs should consult with their program specialist when the need for a change arises to determine if it is
necessary to submit a revised assessment and strategy. Minor changes to projected annual activities,
outcomes, or budget do not need to be submitted for approval if the intended program change, final
strategy goal, or work products will still be achieved. If a CMP will not be able to complete a planned
strategy (or major milestone within the strategy) because of unforeseen circumstances, the CMP should
notify its program specialist as soon as that fact is clear and report the reasons. If the CMP will be able
to scale back the strategy to achieve an alternative goal or a subset of the originally proposed
milestones or products, the CMP should submit a revised strategy for OCRM approval outlining these
changes. However, if the CMP will not be able to complete any work on a proposed strategy, it does not
need to submit a revised strategy but should notify its program specialist of its inability to work on the
strategy.
If a CMP needs to revise its Section 309 assessment and strategy, it must send an email to its program
specialist that includes the following:
•
•
•

A brief explanation of why the change is needed;
The revised (or new) strategy template, including updated work plan and budget; and
A revised assessment (if an adjustment in an enhancement area ranking or priority needs must
be made).

OCRM will review proposed changes to determine if the CMP continues to meet the needs identified in
the assessment and approval criteria as described in this guidance (or if the new ranking and needs
identified make sense given the current circumstances). Within a month of receiving the CMP’s request
to revise its assessment and strategy, OCRM will send a letter to the CMP notifying them if the change

For example, the ultimate goal or program change of the strategy has changed from developing a new state sea-level-rise policy to working
with local governments to develop their own sea-level-rise policies and adaptation plans. In another example, a core element of a strategy
originally called for conducting extensive seafloor mapping to inform the development of an ocean plan. However, another group is now
undertaking the mapping piece. Therefore, the strategy will undertake more stakeholder engagement work for the new ocean plan instead of
the mapping work.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

was approved. Any changes to a specific Section 309 task approved in an annual cooperative agreement
must be submitted through NOAA Grants Online.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Appendix A: Phase I Assessment Templates
Phase I assessments, using templates in this appendix, must be completed by all states.
Use these Phase I templates to quickly determine whether the enhancement area is a high priority
enhancement objective for the CMP that warrants a more in-depth assessment.
Note: The more in-depth assessments of Phase II will help the CMP understand key problems and
opportunities that exist for program enhancement and determine the effectiveness of existing
management efforts to address those problems.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Wetlands
Section 309 Enhancement Objective: Protection, restoration, or enhancement of the existing coastal
wetlands base, or creation of new coastal wetlands. §309(a)(1)
Note: For the purposes of the Wetlands Assessment, wetlands are “those areas that are inundated or
saturated at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do
support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.” [33 CFR
328.3(b)]. See also pg. 17 of the CZMA Performance Measurement Guidance 3 for a more in-depth
discussion of what should be considered a wetland.

PHASE I (HIGH-LEVEL) ASSESSMENT: (Must be completed by all states.)
Purpose: To quickly determine whether the enhancement area is a high priority enhancement objective
for the CMP that warrants a more in-depth assessment. The more in-depth assessments of Phase II will
help the CMP understand key problems and opportunities that exist for program enhancement and
determine the effectiveness of existing management efforts to address those problems.
Resource Characterization:
1. Using provided reports from NOAA’s Land Cover Atlas 4 or high-resolution C-CAP data 5 (Pacific and
Caribbean Islands only), please indicate the extent, status, and trends of wetlands in the state’s
coastal counties. You can provide additional or alternative information or use graphs or other visuals
to help illustrate or replace the table entirely if better data are available. Note that the data
available for the islands may be for a different time frame than the time periods reflected below. In
that case, please specify the time period the data represents. Also note that Puerto Rico and the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) currently only have data for one time point
so will not be able to report trend data. Instead, Puerto Rico and CNMI should just report current
land use cover for all wetlands and each wetlands type.
Coastal Wetlands Status and Trends
Current state of wetlands in 2011 (acres)
Percent net change in total wetlands (% gained
or lost)*
Percent net change in freshwater (palustrine
wetlands) (% gained or lost)*
Percent net change in saltwater (estuarine)
wetlands (% gained or lost)*

from 1996-2011

from 2006-2011

from 1996-2011

from 2006-2011

from 1996-2011

from 2006-2011

http://coastalmanagement.noaa.gov/backmatter/media/czmapmsguide11.pdf
http://www.csc.noaa.gov/ccapatlas/. Summary reports compiling each state’s coastal county data are provided on the ftp site.
5
http://www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/data/ccaphighres
4

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle
How Wetlands Are Changing*
Land Cover Type

Area of Wetlands Transformed to
Another Type of Land Cover
between 1996-2011 (Sq. Miles)

Area of Wetlands Transformed to
Another Type of Land Cover
between 2006-2011 (Sq. Miles)

Development
Agriculture
Barren Land
Water
* Note: Islands likely have data for another time period and may only have one time interval to report. If so, only report the change in wetlands
for the time period for which high-resolution C-CAP data are available. Puerto Rico and CNMI do not report.

2. If available, briefly list and summarize the results of any additional state- or territory-specific data or
reports on the status and trends of coastal wetlands since the last assessment to augment the
national data sets.
Management Characterization:
1. Indicate if there have been any significant changes at the state or territory level (positive or
negative) that could impact the future protection, restoration, enhancement, or creation of coastal
wetlands since the last assessment.
Management Category

Significant Changes Since Last Assessment
(Y or N)

Statutes, regulations, policies, or case law interpreting
these
Wetlands programs (e.g., regulatory, mitigation,
restoration, acquisition)

2. For any management categories with significant changes, briefly provide the information below. If
this information is provided under another enhancement area or section of the document, please
provide a reference to the other section rather than duplicate the information:
a. Describe the significance of the changes;
b. Specify if they were 309 or other CZM-driven changes; and
c. Characterize the outcomes or likely future outcomes of the changes.
Enhancement Area Prioritization:
1. What level of priority is the enhancement area for the coastal management program?
High
Medium
Low

_____
_____
_____

2. Briefly explain the reason for this level of priority. Include input from stakeholder engagement,
including the types of stakeholders engaged.
****************************************************

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

RESOURCES AND TOOLS:
Below are a few national resources and tools that may be useful in conducting your assessment or
developing wetlands strategies. States likely have other state-specific resources, tools, and data that
would be useful as well.
NOAA C-CAP Coastal Land Atlas
Online data viewer provides user-friendly access to regional land cover and land cover change
information developed through NOAA’s Coastal Change Analysis Program (C-CAP). The tool summarizes
wetland change trends and can highlight specific changes of interest (salt marsh losses to open water,
for instance). Users can investigate how land cover changed between 1996, 2001, 2006, and 2011.
Although data are provided by county, NOAA staff members are able to help states and territories easily
aggregate county data into a statewide summary.
Geographic Scope: Contiguous United States and Hawaii
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/lca
NOAA Environmental Sensitivity Index Maps
Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) maps are designed to provide a concise summary of coastal
resources at risk in case of an oil spill or other disaster. They characterize coastal and estuarine
shorelines for several wetlands classes, and may be useful for resource characterization and assessment.
ESI maps are periodically updated on a state-by-state basis, and are generally available in multiple
formats (pdf maps, GIS layers, etc.)
Geographic Scope: All coastal states and territories
Website: http://response.restoration.noaa.gov/maps-and-spatial-data/environmental-sensitivityindex-esi-maps.html
NOAA High-Resolution C-CAP Data
Nationally standardized database of land cover information (developed using remotely sensed imagery)
for the coastal regions of the United States. C-CAP products provide inventories of coastal intertidal
areas, wetlands, and adjacent uplands. High-resolution C-CAP products focus on bringing NOAA’s
national mapping framework to the local level by providing data relevant for addressing site-specific
management decisions. Although this product requires desktop GIS and some GIS technical skills, NOAA
staff are able to help states analyze data to support wetlands assessment.
Geographic Scope: Targeted watershed and other hotspots in the Caribbean, Pacific Islands, and
Monterey Bay, California
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/data/ccaphighres
CZMA Performance Measurement System Data
Annual CZMA performance measurement data for government coordination and habitat measures.
Online database can be used to synthesize existing state and territory data reported during the
assessment period.
Geographic Scope: All coastal states and territories
Website: www8.nos.noaa.gov/PMD/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fPMD%2fdefault.aspx
Coastal Wetland Review Reports
The Environmental Protection Agency-led Interagency Coastal Wetlands Workgroup organized seven
Coastal Wetland Review meetings with stakeholders in coastal watersheds throughout the Mid-Atlantic,
South Atlantic, North Atlantic, and Gulf of Mexico regions to collect information regarding stressors on
21

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

coastal wetlands, local protection strategies, and key gaps that, if addressed, could help reverse the
trend of wetland loss.
Geographic Scope: Select watersheds in the North Atlantic (Cape Cod Watershed); Mid-Atlantic
(Delaware Bay, York River Watershed); South Atlantic (Middle/Lower Neuse River, Indiana River
Lagoon); and Gulf Coast (East and West Galveston Bay, Mississippi Coastal Watershed)
Website: http://water.epa.gov/type/wetlands/cwt.cfm#reports (navigate to the “Coastal Wetlands
Initiative” tab and scroll to the bottom of the page)
National Wetlands Inventory
The National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) is a series of topical maps that show wetlands and deepwater
habitats. The goal of the NWI is to provide current geospatially referenced information on the status,
extent, characteristics, and functions of wetland, riparian, deepwater, and related aquatic habitats in
priority areas in order to promote the understanding and conservation of these resources.
Geographic Scope: Contains information for approximately 82 percent of the conterminous United
States, 31 percent of Alaska, 100 percent of the windward islands of Hawaii, 62 percent of Puerto Rico
and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and 100 percent of Guam and Saipan. Requires desktop GIS and some GIS
technical skills.
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/data/nwi
National Wetlands Status and Trends Report
In 2013, the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service and NOAA released an updated report, Status and Trends of
Wetlands in the Coastal Watersheds of the Conterminous United States, to document trends in coastal
wetland acreage from 2004 to 2009. The analysis concluded that more than 80,000 acres of coastal
wetlands are being lost on average each year, up from about 59,000 acres lost per year in the previous
study covering 1998 to 2004. A majority of this loss occurred in freshwater wetlands.
Geographic Scope: Coastal watersheds of the Atlantic, Great Lakes, Gulf of Mexico and Pacific
Website: www.fws.gov/wetlands/Documents/Status-and-Trends-of-Wetlands-In-the-CoastalWatersheds-of-the-Conterminous-US-2004-to-2009.pdf
NOAA Habitat Priority Planner
The Habitat Priority Planner can be used in any geography to inventory specific habitat relevant to a
study area. It assesses target habitat conditions with prepackaged spatial analysis. Analyzes “what if”
scenarios, such as the impact of new development or how restoration might change habitat function.
The tool creates maps, reports, and data tables to enhance communication and the decision-making
process. Although it requires desktop GIS and some GIS technical skills, NOAA staff members are
available to provide technical assistance.
Geographic Scope: Appropriate geographic scope should be based on the resolution and complexity of
the data. The tool is built upon Esri’s ArcGIS, so it will only run as fast as allowed within that software.
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/hpp
NOAA Sea Level Rise Viewer
Displays potential future sea levels and provides simulations of sea level rise at local landmarks,
including modeling potential marsh migration due to sea level rise. Overlays social and economic data
onto potential sea level rise. Examines how tidal flooding will become more frequent with sea level rise.
Geographic Scope: Select regions currently available. More coming soon so check back.
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/slrviewer

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Coastal Hazards
Section 309 Enhancement Objective: Prevent or significantly reduce threats to life and property by
eliminating development and redevelopment in high-hazard areas, managing development in other
hazard areas, and anticipating and managing the effects of potential sea level rise and Great Lakes level
change. §309(a)(2)
Note: For purposes of the Hazards Assessment, coastal hazards include the following traditional
hazards and those identified in the CZMA: flooding; coastal storms (including associated storm
surge); geological hazards (e.g., tsunamis, earthquakes); shoreline erosion (including bluff and
dune erosion); sea level rise; Great Lake level change; land subsidence; and saltwater intrusion.

No. of people in coastal
floodplain 8
No. of people in coastal counties 9
Percentage of people in coastal
counties in coastal floodplain

Population in the Coastal Floodplain
2000
2010

Percent Change from 2000-2010

----------

2. Shoreline Erosion (for all states other than Great Lakes and islands; for Great Lakes and islands, see
Question 5): Using data from NOAA’s State of the Coast “Coastal Vulnerability Index,” 10 indicate the
vulnerability of the state’s shoreline to erosion. You may use other information or graphs or other
visuals to help illustrate or replace the table entirely if better data is available. Note: For New York

http://stateofthecoast.noaa.gov/pop100yr/welcome.html. Note FEMA is in the process of updating the floodplain data. This viewer reflects
floodplains as of 2010. If you know the floodplain for your state has been revised since 2010, you can either use data for your new boundary, if
available, or include a short narrative acknowledging the floodplain has changed and generally characterizing how it has changed.
7
www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/snapshots
8
To obtain exact population numbers for the coastal floodplain, download the Excel data file on the State of the Coast “Population in the
Floodplain” viewer: http://stateofthecoast.noaa.gov/pop100yr/welcome.html. Summary population data for each coastal state is available on
the ftp site.
9
To obtain population numbers for coastal counties, see spreadsheet of coastal population and critical facilities data provided or download
directly from http://www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/data/stics. Summary population data for each coastal state is available on the ftp site.
10
http://stateofthecoast.noaa.gov/vulnerability/welcome.html (see specifically “Erosion Rate” drop-down on map). The State of the Coast
visually displays the data from USGS’s Coastal Vulnerability Index.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

and Pennsylvania that have both Atlantic and Great Lakes shorelines, fill out the table below for the
Atlantic shoreline only.
Vulnerability to Shoreline Erosion
Vulnerability Ranking

Miles of Shoreline Vulnerable11

Percent of Coastline 11

Very low

(>2.0m/yr) accretion

Low

(1.0-2.0 m/yr) accretion)

Moderate

(-1.0 to 1.0 m/yr) stable

High

(-1.1 to -2.0 m/yr) erosion

Very high

(<-2.0 m/yr) erosion

3. Sea Level Rise (for all states other than Great Lakes and islands; for Great Lakes and islands, see
Question 5): Using data from NOAA’s State of the Coast “Coastal Vulnerability Index”, 12 indicate the
vulnerability of the state’s shoreline to sea level rise. You may provide other information or use
graphs or other visuals to help illustrate or replace table entirely if better data is available. Note: For
New York and Pennsylvania that have both Atlantic and Great Lakes shorelines, fill out the table
below for your Atlantic shoreline only.
Coastal Vulnerability to Historic Sea Level Rise
Vulnerability Ranking

Miles of Shoreline Vulnerable11

Percent of Coastline

Very low
Low
Moderate
High
Very high

4. Other Coastal Hazards: In the table below, indicate the general level of risk in the coastal zone for
each of the coastal hazards. The state’s multi-hazard mitigation plan is a good additional resource to
support these responses.
General Level of Risk 13 (H, M, L)

Type of Hazard
Flooding (riverine, stormwater)
Coastal storms (including storm surge) 14
Geological hazards (e.g., tsunamis, earthquakes)
Shoreline erosion 15

To obtain exact shoreline miles and percent of coastline, mouse over the colored bar for each level of risk or download the Excel data file.
http://stateofthecoast.noaa.gov/vulnerability/welcome.html (see “Vulnerability Index Rating” drop-down on map). The State of the Coast
visually displays the data from USGS’s Coastal Vulnerability Index.
13
Risk is defined as “the estimated impact that a hazard would have on people, services, facilities and structures in a community; the likelihood
of a hazard event resulting in an adverse condition that causes injury or damage.” Understanding Your Risks: Identifying Hazards and Estimating
Losses. FEMA 386-2. August 2001
14
In addition to any state- or territory-specific information that may help respond to this question, the U.S. Global Change Research Program
has an interactive website that provides key findings from the 2014 National Climate Assessment for each region of the country, including
regions for the coasts and oceans, and various sectors. The report includes findings related to coastal storms and sea level rise that may be
helpful in determining the general level of risk. See http://nca2014.globalchange.gov/.
12

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle
13,14,15

General Level of Risk 13 (H, M, L)

Type of Hazard

Sea level rise
Great Lake level change14
Land subsidence
Saltwater intrusion
Other (please specify)

5. If available, briefly list and summarize the results of any additional data or reports on the level of
risk and vulnerability to coastal hazards within your state since the last assessment. The state’s
multi-hazard mitigation plan or climate change risk assessment or plan may be a good resource to
help respond to this question.
Management Characterization:
1. Indicate if the approach is employed by the state or territory and if significant state- or territorylevel changes (positive or negative) have occurred that could impact the CMP’s ability to prevent or
significantly reduce coastal hazards risk since the last assessment.

Management Category

Employed by State
or Territory
(Y or N)

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ
(Y or N)

Significant Changes
Since Last
Assessment
(Y or N)

Statutes, regulations, policies, or case law interpreting these that address:
elimination of
development/redevelopment
in high-hazard areas 16
management of
development/redevelopment
in other hazard areas
climate change impacts, including sea
level rise or Great Lake level change
Hazards planning programs or initiatives that address:
hazard mitigation
climate change impacts, including sea
level rise or Great Lake level change
Hazards mapping or modeling programs or initiatives for:
sea level rise or Great Lake level change
other hazards

2. Briefly state how “high-hazard areas” are defined in your coastal zone.
3. For any management categories with significant changes, briefly provide the information below. If
this information is provided under another enhancement area or section of the document, please
provide a reference to the other section rather than duplicate the information:
a. Describe the significance of the changes;
15

See NOAA State of the Coastal Vulnerability to Sea Level Rise Tool (select “Erosion Rate” from drop-down box)
http://stateofthecoast.noaa.gov/vulnerability/welcome.html. The State of the Coast visually displays the data from USGS’s Coastal Vulnerability
Index.
16
Use state’s definition of high-hazard areas.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

b. Specify if they were 309 or other CZM-driven changes; and
c. Characterize the outcomes or likely future outcomes of the changes.
Enhancement Area Prioritization:
1. What level of priority is the enhancement area for the coastal management program?
High
Medium
Low

_____
_____
_____

2. Briefly explain the reason for this level of priority. Include input from stakeholder engagement,
including the types of stakeholders engaged.
****************************************************

RESOURCES AND TOOLS:
Below are a few national resources and tools that may be useful in conducting your assessment or
developing coastal hazards strategies. States likely have other state-specific resources, tools, and data
that would be useful as well.
Climate.gov
NOAA’s Climate.gov provides science and information for a climate-smart nation. The “Supporting
Decisions” is a clearinghouse of reports, resources, and decision-support tools for planners and policy
leaders who want authoritative climate science information to help them understand and manage
climate-related risks and opportunities.
Geographic Scope: Various by resource
Website: www.climate.gov
CZMA Performance Management System Data
Annual CZMA performance measurement data for coastal hazards measures. Online database can be
used to synthesize existing state and territory data reported during the assessment period.
Geographic Scope: All coastal states and territories
Website: www8.nos.noaa.gov/PMD/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fPMD%2fdefault.aspx
National Climate Assessment Web Tool
The U.S. Global Change Research Program provides an interactive web tool to quickly view key findings
from the 2014 National Climate Assessment. Data are summarized by region (including ones for oceans
and coasts) and sector.
Geographic Scope: Entire United States (including territories)
Website: http://nca2014.globalchange.gov/
NOAA C-CAP Coastal Land Atlas
Online data viewer provides user-friendly access to regional land cover and land cover change
information developed through NOAA’s Coastal Change Analysis Program (C-CAP). Users can investigate

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

how land cover changed between 1996, 2001, 2006, and 2011. Although data are provided by county,
NOAA staff members are able to help states easily aggregate county data into statewide summary.
Geographic Scope: Contiguous United States and Hawaii
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/lca
NOAA Coastal County Snapshots: Flood Exposure
Assesses a county’s exposure and resilience to flooding. Analyzes a county’s dependence on the ocean
or Great Lakes for a healthy economy. Examines the benefits a county receives from its wetlands.
Compares counties to each other or for regional analysis. Allows users to download a PDF report for the
snapshot of their choice.
Geographic Scope: Coastal states only. Currently not available for territories.
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/snapshots
NOAA High-Resolution C-CAP Data
Nationally standardized database of land cover information (developed using remotely sensed imagery)
for the coastal regions of the United States. C-CAP products provide inventories of coastal intertidal
areas, wetlands, and adjacent uplands. High-resolution C-CAP products focus on bringing NOAA’s
national mapping framework to the local level by providing data relevant for addressing site-specific
management decisions. Although the data require desktop GIS and some GIS technical skills, NOAA staff
members are able to help states analyze data to support wetlands assessment.
Geographic Scope: Targeted watershed and other hotspots in the Caribbean, Pacific Islands, and
Monterey Bay, California
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/data/ccaphighres
NOAA Sea Level Rise Viewer
Displays potential future sea levels and provides simulations of sea level rise at local landmarks,
including modeling potential marsh migration due to sea level rise. Overlays social and economic data
onto potential sea level rise. Examines how tidal flooding will become more frequent with sea level rise.
Geographic Scope: Select regions currently available. More coming soon so check back.
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/slrviewer
NOAA Spatial Trends in Coastal Socioeconomics
The Spatial Trends in Coastal Socioeconomics recompiles socioeconomic data to estimate demographic
and economic attributes for a variety of important coastal management jurisdictions like watersheds,
floodplains, coastal counties, and place-based coastal management programs. Currently available data
sets include Demographics Trends (1970-2011) from the U.S. Census Bureau; Economic Trends (19902011) from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Bureau of Economic Analysis; Demographic Projections
(1970-2040) from Woods and Poole Economics, Inc.; and Critical Facilities (2012) from the Federal
Emergency Management Agency.
Geographic Scope: Varies by data
Website: http://csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/data/stics
NOAA State of the Coast
The State of the Coast website fosters an increased awareness of the crucial importance of healthy
coastal ecosystems to a robust U.S. economy, a safe population, and a sustainable quality of life for
coastal residents. The site offers quick facts and more detailed statistics through interactive indicator

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

visualizations. Visualizations focused on coastal hazards issues include Coastal Vulnerability to Sea Level
Rise, Coastal Population in the Floodplain, and Federally Insured Assets in the Coastal Floodplain.
Geographic Scope: Generally all coastal states and territories but a few viewers may have more limited
coverage
Website: http://stateofthecoast.noaa.gov/
Spatial Hazards Events and Loss Database for the United States (SHELDUS)
SHELDUS is a county-level hazard data set for the United States for 18 different natural hazard event
types such as thunderstorms, hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and tornados. For each event, the database
includes the beginning date, location (county and state), property losses, crop losses, injuries, and
fatalities that affected each county.
Geographic Scope: All states (does not include territories)
Website: http://webra.cas.sc.edu/hvri/products/sheldus.aspx
Social Vulnerability Index
The Social Vulnerability Index (SoVI) 2006-2010 measures the social vulnerability of U.S. counties to
environmental hazards. The index is a comparative metric that facilitates the examination of the
differences in social vulnerability among counties. It shows where there is uneven capacity for
preparedness and response and where resources might be used most effectively to reduce the preexisting vulnerability. SoVI also is useful as an indicator in determining the differential recovery from
disasters.
Geographic Scope: All states (does not include territories)
Website: http://webra.cas.sc.edu/hvri/products/sovi.aspx
U.S. Global Change Research Program Scenarios for Climate Assessment and Adaptation
The U.S. Global Change Research Program has developed several interactive scenario maps. Scenarios
are ways to help understand what future conditions might be, with each scenario an example of what
might happen under different assumptions. Scenarios are not predictions or forecasts, and no
probabilities are associated with them. Instead, they provide a range of future conditions to bound
uncertainty. Scenarios displayed include climate, sea level change, land use, and socioeconomic
conditions. They are based on peer-reviewed, published sources, including materials prepared by the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
Geographic Scope: National
Website: http://scenarios.globalchange.gov/content/scenarios

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Public Access
Section 309 Enhancement Objective: Attain increased opportunities for public access, taking into
account current and future public access needs, to coastal areas of recreational, historical, aesthetic,
ecological, or cultural value. §309(a)(3)

Type of Access

Current
number 17

Public Access Status and Trends
Changes or Trends Since Last Assessment 18
(↑, ↓, −, unkwn)

Cite data source

Beach access sites
Shoreline (other
than beach) access
sites
Recreational boat
(power or
nonmotorized)
access sites
Number of
designated scenic
vistas or overlook
points
Number of fishing
access points (i.e.
piers, jetties)

Coastal trails/
boardwalks

No. of Trails/
boardwalks
Miles of
Trails/boardwalks

Be as specific as possible. For example, if you have data on many access sites but know it is not an exhaustive list, note “more than” before
the number. If information is unknown, note that and use the narrative section below to provide a brief qualitative description based on the
best information available.
18
If you know specific numbers, please provide. However, if specific numbers are unknown but you know that the general trend was increasing
or decreasing or relatively stable or unchanged since the last assessment, note that with a ↑ (increased), ↓ (decreased), − (unchanged). If the
trend is completely unknown, simply put “unkwn.”

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Type of Access

Current
number 17

Public Access Status and Trends
Changes or Trends Since Last Assessment 18
(↑, ↓, −, unkwn)

Cite data source

Total sites

Number of acres
parkland/open
space

Sites per miles of
shoreline

Other
(please specify)

2. Briefly characterize the demand for coastal public access and the process for periodically assessing
demand. Include a statement on the projected population increase for your coastal counties. 19
There are several additional sources of statewide information that may help inform this response,
such as the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, 20 the National Survey on Fishing,
Hunting, and Wildlife Associated Recreation, 21 and your state’s tourism office.
The population within the state’s coastal shoreline counties is projected to increase (or
decrease) by ____ percent between 2010 and 2020.
3. If available, briefly list and summarize the results of any additional data or reports on the status or
trends for coastal public access since the last assessment.
Management Characterization:
1. Indicate if the approach is employed by the state or territory and if there have been any significant
state- or territory-level management changes (positive or negative) that could impact the future
provision of public access to coastal areas of recreational, historical, aesthetic, ecological, or cultural
value.
Management Category

Employed by State
or Territory
(Y or N)

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ
(Y or N)

Significant Changes Since
Last Assessment
(Y or N)

Statutes, regulations, policies, or
case law interpreting these
Operation/maintenance of existing
facilities
Acquisition/enhancement programs
19

See NOAA’s Coastal Population Report: 1970-2020 (Table 5, pg. 9): http://stateofthecoast.noaa.gov/coastal-population-report.pdf
Most states routinely develop “Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plans”, or SCROPs, that include an assessment of demand for
public recreational opportunities. Although not focused on coastal public access, SCORPs could be useful to get some sense of public outdoor
recreation preferences and demand. Download state SCROPs at www.recpro.org/scorps.
21
The National Survey on Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife Associated Recreation produces state-specific reports on fishing, hunting, and wildlife
associated recreational use for each state. While not focused on coastal areas, the reports do include information on saltwater and Great Lakes
fishing, and some coastal wildlife viewing that may be informative and compares 2011 data to 2006 and 2001 information to understand how
usage has changed. See www.census.gov/prod/www/fishing.html.
20

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

2. For any management categories with significant changes, briefly provide the information below. If
this information is provided under another enhancement area or section of the document, please
provide a reference to the other section rather than duplicate the information:
a. Describe the significance of the changes;
b. Specify if they were 309 or other CZM-driven changes; and
c. Characterize the outcomes or likely future outcomes of the changes.
3. Indicate if your state or territory has a publically available public access guide. How current is the
publication and how frequently it is updated? 22
Public Access Guide
State or territory has?
(Y or N)
Web address
(if applicable)
Date of last update
Frequency of update

Printed

Online

Mobile App

Enhancement Area Prioritization:
1. What level of priority is the enhancement area for the coastal management program?
High
Medium
Low

_____
_____
_____

2. Briefly explain the reason for this level of priority. Include input from stakeholder engagement,
including the types of stakeholders engaged.
****************************************************

RESOURCES AND TOOLS:
Below are a few national resources and tools that may be useful in conducting your assessment or
developing public access strategies. States likely have other state-specific resources, tools, and data that
would be useful as well.
CZMA Performance Measurement System Data
Annual CZMA performance measurement data for public access. Online database can be used to
synthesize existing state or territory data reported during the assessment period.
Geographic Scope: All coastal states and territories
Website: www8.nos.noaa.gov/PMD/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fPMD%2fdefault.aspx

Note some states may have regional or local guides in addition to state public access guides. Unless you want to list all local guides as well,
there is no need to list additional guides beyond the state access guide. However, you may choose to note that the local guides do exist and
may provide additional information that expands upon the state guides.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

EPA Swimming Season Statistics
The Environmental Protection agency (EPA) tracks annual beach monitoring and closure information
through its beach program. The most recent data available is for the 2012 season.
Geographic Scope: All coastal states and territories
Website: http://water.epa.gov/type/oceb/beaches/2012_season.cfm
National Survey on Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife Associated Recreation
The U.S. Census partners with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to present information on individuals
involved in fishing, hunting, and other wildlife-associated recreation, such as wildlife observation,
photography, and feeding. Data include states in which these activities occurred; number of trips taken;
days of participation; and expenditures for food, lodging, transportation, and equipment. While not
focused on coastal areas, the reports do include information on saltwater and Great Lakes fishing and
some coastal wildlife viewing. The 2011 reports compare 2011 data to 2006 and 2001 survey results to
understand how usage has changed.
Geographic Scope: All states (territories not included)
Website: www.census.gov/prod/www/fishing.html
Outdoor Recreation Trends and Futures
The U.S. Forest Service routinely conducts a national study of outdoor recreation trends as part of the
Renewable Resources Planning Act Assessment. The 2010 study (released in 2012) reviews past trends
in outdoor recreation participation by Americans, describes current outdoor recreation participation
patterns, compares patterns across regional and demographic strata, describes recreation activity
participation on public and private lands, and provides projections of outdoor recreation participation
out to the year 2060.
Geographic Scope: National summaries only (no state-specific data provided)
Website: www.srs.fs.usda.gov/pubs/gtr/gtr_srs150.pdf
Outdoor Recreation for Northern United States
Presents more regionally-specific data from the Outdoor Recreation Trends and Futures survey but also
compares to other regions.
Geographic Scope: Focused on Northeast, Mid-Atlantic (Maryland north), and Great Lakes, although
includes information on entire country as well.
Website: www.fs.fed.us/nrs/pubs/gtr/gtr_nrs100.pdf
Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plans
Most states regularly develop Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plans (SCORPs). While each
SCORP varies by state, at a minimum, the plan must (1) identify outdoor recreation issues of statewide
importance; (2) evaluate demand, i.e., public outdoor recreation preferences; and (3) evaluate the
supply of outdoor recreation resources and facilities.
Geographic Scope: All states (territories not included)
Website: http://www.recpro.org/scorps
TrailLink
The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy includes an interactive map interface that identifies rail trails, including
mileage, for each state. While not limited to the coastal zone, or even coastal counties, this information
could be useful to get a sense of the other types of trails and walkways that exist in the coastal zone.
Geographic Scope: All states (territories not included)
Website: www.traillink.com/

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Marine Debris
Section 309 Enhancement Objective: Reducing marine debris entering the nation’s coastal and ocean
environment by managing uses and activities that contribute to the entry of such debris. §309(a)(4)

PHASE I (HIGH-LEVEL) ASSESSMENT: (Must be completed by all states.)

Source of Marine Debris

Existing Status and Trends of Marine Debris in Coastal Zone
Change Since Last
Type of Impact 23
Significance of Source
(aesthetic, resource damage,
Assessment
(H, M, L, unknwn)
user conflicts, other)

Land-based
Beach/shore litter
Dumping
Storm drains and runoff
Fishing (e.g., fishing
line, gear)
Other (please specify)
Ocean or Great Lake-based
Fishing (e.g., derelict
fishing gear)
Derelict vessels
Vessel-based (e.g.,
cruise ship, cargo ship,
general vessel)
Hurricane/Storm
Tsunami
Other (please specify)

(↑, ↓, −, unkwn)

2. If available, briefly list and summarize the results of any additional state- or territory-specific data or
reports on the status and trends or potential impacts from marine debris in the coastal zone since
the last assessment.

You can select more than one, if applicable.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Management Characterization:
1. Indicate if the approach is employed by the state or territory and if there have been any significant
state- or territory-level management changes (positive or negative) for how marine debris is
managed in the coastal zone.

Management Category

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ

Employed by
State/Territory
(Y or N)

Significant Changes Since
Last Assessment

(Y or N)

Marine debris statutes,
regulations, policies, or case
law interpreting these
Marine debris removal
programs

2. For any management categories with significant changes, briefly provide the information below. If
this information is provided under another enhancement area or section of the document, please
provide a reference to the other section rather than duplicate the information:
a. Describe the significance of the changes;
b. Specify if they were 309 or other CZM-driven changes; and
c. Characterize the outcomes and likely future outcomes of the changes.
Enhancement Area Prioritization:
1. What level of priority is the enhancement area for the coastal management program?
High
Medium
Low

_____
_____
_____

2. Briefly explain the reason for this level of priority. Include input from stakeholder engagement,
including the types of stakeholders engaged.
*********************************************

RESOURCES AND TOOLS:
Below are a few national resources and tools that may be useful in conducting your assessment or
developing marine debris strategies. States likely have other state-specific resources, tools, and data that
would be useful as well.
CZMA Performance Measurement System Data
Annual CZMA performance measurement data for marine debris. Online database can be used to
synthesize existing state or territory data reported during the assessment period.
Geographic Scope: All coastal states and territories
Website: www8.nos.noaa.gov/PMD/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fPMD%2fdefault.aspx

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

NOAA Marine Debris Program
The NOAA Marine Debris Program supports national and international efforts to research, prevent, and
reduce the impacts of marine debris. The program coordinates and supports marine debris activities
within NOAA and with other federal agencies, and uses partnerships to support projects carried out by
state and local agencies, tribes, nongovernmental organizations, academia, and industry. The program
also provides funding opportunities for projects that address marine debris.
Geographic Coverage: National and international
Website: http://marinedebris.noaa.gov/
Ocean Conservancy Marine Debris Monitoring Program Final Report
The National Marine Debris Monitoring Program, conducted by Ocean Conservancy and funded by the
Environmental Protection Agency, was designed to standardize marine debris data collection in the
United States using a scientifically valid protocol to determine marine debris status and trends. The
study analyzed marine debris from three specific sources: land-based, ocean-based, and general (marine
debris that cannot be distinguished as a land-based or ocean-based source). The study was conducted
over a five-year period between September 2001 and September 2006.
Geographic Coverage: Regional (except for Great Lakes and Pacific territories)
Website:
http://act.oceanconservancy.org/site/DocServer/NMDMP_Report_April_2008.pdf?docID=4601
West Coast Marine Debris Database
The West Coast Marine Debris Database provides comprehensive access to information on West Coast
marine debris including beach cleanups and derelict gear removal.
Geographic Coverage: Washington, Oregon, and California
Website: http://debris-db.westcoastoceans.org/

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Cumulative and Secondary Impacts
Section 309 Enhancement Objective: Development and adoption of procedures to assess, consider, and
control cumulative and secondary impacts of coastal growth and development, including the collective
effect on various individual uses or activities on coastal resources, such as coastal wetlands and fishery
resources. §309(a)(5)

PHASE I (HIGH-LEVEL) ASSESSMENT: (Must be completed by all states.)

Trends in Coastal Population and Housing Units
Population
Total
% Change
Total

(# of people)

(compared to 2002)

Housing

(# of housing units)

% Change

(compared to 2002)

2007
2012

2. Using provided reports from NOAA’s Land Cover Atlas 25 or high-resolution C-CAP data 26 (Pacific and
Caribbean Islands only), please indicate the status and trends for various land uses in the state’s
coastal counties between 2006 and 2011. You may use other information and include graphs and
figures, as appropriate, to help illustrate the information. Note that the data available for the islands
may be for a different time frame than the time periods reflected below. In that case, please specify
the time period the data represents. Also note that Puerto Rico and the Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) currently only have data for one time point so will not be able to
report trend data. Instead, Puerto Rico and CNMI should just report current land use cover for
developed areas and impervious surfaces.

www.oceaneconomics.org/. Enter “Population and Housing” section. From drop-down boxes, select your state, and “all counties.” Select the
year (2012) and the year to compare it to (2007). Then select “coastal zone counties.” Finally, be sure to check the “include density” box under
the “Other Options” section.
25
www.csc.noaa.gov/ccapatlas/. Summary data on land use trends for each coastal state is available on the ftp site.
26
www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/data/ccaphighres. Summary data on land use trends for each coastal state is available on the ftp site.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Distribution of Land Cover Types in Coastal Counties
Land Cover Type
Land Area Coverage in 2011
Gain/Loss Since 2006
(Acres)

(Acres)

Developed, High Intensity
Developed, Low Intensity
Developed, Open Space
Grassland
Scrub/Shrub
Barren Land
Open Water
Agriculture
Forested
Woody Wetland
Emergent Wetland
3. Using provided reports from NOAA’s Land Cover Atlas 27 or high-resolution C-CAP data 28 (Pacific and
Caribbean Islands only), please indicate the status and trends for developed areas in the state’s
coastal counties between 2006 and 2011 in the two tables below. You may use other information
and include graphs and figures, as appropriate, to help illustrate the information. Note that the data
available for the islands may be for a different time frame than the time periods reflected below. In
that case, please specify the time period the data represents. Also note that Puerto Rico and CNMI
currently only have data for one time point so will not be able to report trend data. Unless Puerto
Rico and CNMI have similar trend data to report on changes in land use type, they should just report
current land use cover for developed areas and impervious surfaces.
Development Status and Trends for Coastal Counties
2006
2011

Percent Net Change

Percent land area developed
Percent impervious surface area
* Note: Islands likely have data for another time period and may only have one time interval to report. If so, only report the change in
development and impervious surface area for the time period for which high-resolution C-CAP data are available. Puerto Rico and CNMI do not
need to report trend data.

Land Cover Type
Barren Land

How Land Use Is Changing in Coastal Counties
Areas Lost to Development Between 2006-2011 (Acres)

Emergent Wetland
Woody Wetland
Open Water
Agriculture
Scrub/Shrub
Grassland
Forested
* Note: Islands likely have data for another time period and may only have one time interval to report. If so, only report the change in land use
for the time period for which high-resolution C-CAP data are available. Puerto Rico and CNMI do not report.
27
28

www.csc.noaa.gov/ccapatlas/. Summary data on land use trends for each coastal state is available on the ftp site.
www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/data/ccaphighres. Summary data on land use trends for each coastal state is available on the ftp site.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

4. Using data from NOAA’s State of the Coast “Shoreline Type” viewer, 29 indicate the percent of
shoreline that falls into each shoreline type. 30 You may provide other information or use graphs or
other visuals to help illustrate.
Surveyed Shoreline Type
Armored
Beaches
Flats
Rocky
Vegetated

Shoreline Types

Percent of Shoreline

5. If available, briefly list and summarize the results of any additional state- or territory-specific data or
reports on the cumulative and secondary impacts of coastal growth and development, such as water
quality and habitat fragmentation, since the last assessment to augment the national data sets.
Management Characterization:
1. Indicate if the approach is employed by the state or territory and if there have been any significant
state-level changes (positive or negative) in the development and adoption of procedures to assess,
consider, and control cumulative and secondary impacts of coastal growth and development,
including the collective effect on various individual uses or activities on coastal resources, such as
coastal wetlands and fishery resources, since the last assessment.

Management Category

Employed by State or
Territory
(Y or N)

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals that
Employ
(Y or N)

Significant Changes Since
Last Assessment
(Y or N)

Statutes, regulations,
policies, or case law
interpreting these
Guidance documents
Management plans (including
SAMPs)

http://stateofthecoast.noaa.gov/shoreline/welcome.html
Note: Data are from NOAA’s Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) Maps. Data from each state was collected in different years and some data
may be over ten years old now. However, it can still provide a useful reference point absent more recent statewide data. Feel free to use more
recent state data, if available, in place of ESI map data. Use a footnote to convey data’s age and source (if other than ESI maps).
30

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Enhancement Area Prioritization:
1. What level of priority is the enhancement area for the coastal management program?
High
Medium
Low

_____
_____
_____

2. Briefly explain the reason for this level of priority. Include input from stakeholder engagement,
including the types of stakeholders engaged.
*********************************************

RESOURCES AND TOOLS:
Below are a few national resources and tools that may be useful in conducting your assessment or
developing strategies for cumulative and secondary impacts of development. States likely have other
state-specific resources, tools, and data that would be useful as well.
EPA National Coastal Condition Report IV
The report describes and rates the ecological and environmental conditions in U.S. coastal waters.
Information is summarized on a national and regional basis. The latest report, released in 2012, reports
on data collected from 2003 to 2006.
Geographic Scope: National and regional
Website: http://water.epa.gov/type/oceb/assessmonitor/nccr/index.cfm
NOAA C-CAP Coastal Land Atlas
Online data viewer provides user-friendly access to regional land cover and land cover change
information developed through NOAA’s Coastal Change Analysis Program (C-CAP). The tool summarizes
land use change trends. Users can investigate how land cover changed between 1996, 2001, 2006, and
2011. Although data are provided by county, NOAA staff members are able to help states easily
aggregate county data into statewide summary.
Geographic Scope: Contiguous United States and Hawaii
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/lca
NOAA High-Resolution C-CAP Data
Nationally standardized database of land cover information (developed using remotely sensed imagery)
for the coastal regions of the U.S. C-CAP products provide inventories of coastal intertidal areas,
wetlands, and adjacent uplands. High-resolution C-CAP products focus on bringing NOAA’s national
mapping framework to the local level by providing data relevant for addressing site-specific
management decisions. Although the data require desktop GIS and some GIS technical skills, NOAA staff
members are able to help states analyze data to support wetlands assessment.
Geographic Scope: Targeted watershed and other hotspots in the Caribbean, Pacific Islands region,
and Monterey Bay, California
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/data/ccaphighres

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

NOAA Environmental Sensitivity Index Maps
Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) maps are designed to provide a concise summary of coastal
resources at risk in case of an oil spill or other disaster. They characterize the type of shoreline
(armored, vegetated, beach, etc.) and may be useful for resource characterization and assessment. ESI
maps are periodically updated on a state-by-state basis, and are generally available in multiple formats
(pdf maps, GIS layers, etc.)
Geographic Scope: All coastal states and territories
Website: http://response.restoration.noaa.gov/maps-and-spatial-data/environmental-sensitivityindex-esi-maps.html
NOAA Impervious Surface Analysis Tool
The Impervious Surface Analysis Tool (ISAT), a custom suite of easy-to-use scripts for ArcGIS, is used to
calculate the percentage of impervious surface area within user-selected geographic areas, such as
watersheds, municipalities, and subdivisions. ISAT uses imperviousness values to categorize areas as
having good, fair, or poor water quality. A correlation between an increase in impervious surfaces and a
decrease in water quality has been well established, and ISAT users may find the information derived
from ISAT helpful in predicting how different management scenarios might impact local water quality.
The tool calculates the percent impervious area and total impervious surface area of each selected
polygon, categorizes polygons to represent conditions of good, fair, and poor water quality based on
calculated imperviousness, and incorporates land cover change scenarios to examine how changes
influence impervious surfaces. Although it requires desktop GIS and some GIS technical skills, NOAA staff
members are able to help states analyze data to support wetlands assessment.
Geographic Scope: Appropriate geographic scope should be based upon the resolution and complexity
of the data. The tool is built on Esri’s ArcGIS, so it will only run as fast as allowed within that software.
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/isat
NOAA OpenNSPECT Data
OpenNSPECT is the open-source version of the Nonpoint Source Pollution and Erosion Comparison Tool
to investigate potential water quality impacts from development, other land uses, and climate change.
OpenNSPECT was designed to be broadly applicable. When applied to coastal and noncoastal areas
alike, the tool simulates erosion, pollution, and their accumulation from overland flow. The tool
provides estimates and maps of surface water runoff volumes, pollutant loads, pollutant concentrations,
and total sediment loads, helps users identify areas that might benefit from changes to proposed
development strategies, and provides a means to analyze “what if” land use change scenarios. Although
it requires desktop GIS and some GIS technical skills, NOAA staff members are available to provide
technical assistance.
Geographic Scope: Appropriate geographic scope should be based upon the resolution and complexity
of the data. The tool is a plugin for open source MapWindow GIS.
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/opennspect
CZMA Performance Measurement System Data
Annual CZMA performance measurement data for coastal community development. Online database
can be used to synthesize existing state and territory data reported during the assessment period.
Geographic Scope: All coastal states and territories
Website: www8.nos.noaa.gov/PMD/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fPMD%2fdefault.aspx

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

NOAA State of the Coast
The State of the Coast website fosters an increased awareness of the crucial importance of healthy
coastal ecosystems to a robust U.S. economy, a safe population, and a sustainable quality of life for
coastal residents. The site offers quick facts and more detailed statistics through interactive indicator
visualizations. Visualizations focused on coastal population, overall coastal health, shoreline type, and
nutrient pollution, and others may help inform the cumulative and secondary impacts assessment.
Geographic Scope: Generally all coastal states and territories but a few viewers may have more limited
coverage.
Website: http://stateofthecoast.noaa.gov/

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Special Area Management Planning
Section 309 Enhancement Objective: Preparing and implementing special area management plans for
important coastal areas. §309(a)(6)
The Coastal Zone Management Act defines a Special Area Management Plan (SAMP) as “a
comprehensive plan providing for natural resource protection and reasonable coastal-dependent
economic growth containing a detailed and comprehensive statement of policies; standards and criteria
to guide public and private uses of lands and waters; and mechanisms for timely implementation in
specific geographic areas within the coastal zone. In addition, SAMPs provide for increased specificity in
protecting natural resources, reasonable coastal-dependent economic growth, improved protection of
life and property in hazardous areas, including those areas likely to be affected by land subsidence, sea
level rise, or fluctuating water levels of the Great Lakes, and improved predictability in governmental
decision making.”

PHASE I (HIGH-LEVEL) ASSESSMENT: (Must be completed by all states and territories.)

Opportunities for New or Updated Special Area Management Plans
Major conflicts/issues

2. If available, briefly list and summarize the results of any additional state- or territory-specific data or
reports on the status and trends of SAMPs since the last assessment.
Management Characterization:
1. Indicate if the approach is employed by the state or territory and if there have been any significant
state- or territory-level management changes (positive or negative) that could help prepare and
implement SAMPs in the coastal zone.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Management Category

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ

Employed by State or
Territory
(Y or N)

(Y or N)

Significant Changes Since
Last Assessment
(Y or N)

SAMP policies, or case law
interpreting these
SAMP plans

_____
_____
_____

2. Briefly explain the reason for this level of priority. Include input from stakeholder engagement,
including the types of stakeholders engaged.
*********************************************

RESOURCES AND TOOLS:
Below are a few national resources and tools that may be useful in conducting your assessment or
developing SAMP strategies. States likely have other state-specific resources, tools, and data that would
be useful as well.
Davis, Braxton. 2004. “Regional Planning in the U.S. Coastal Zone: A Comparative Analysis of 15 Special
Area Plans.” Ocean and Coastal Management. Volume 47, Pages 79 to 94.
Geographic Scope: National
Website: www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0964569104000225
Imperial, Mark. 1999. “Analyzing Institutional Arrangements for Ecosystem-Based Management: Lessons
from the Rhode Island Salt Ponds SAM Plan.” Coastal Management. Volume 27. Pages 31 to 56.
Geographic Scope: Rhode Island, but lessons broadly applicable
Website: www.ingentaconnect.com/content/tandf/ucmg/1999/00000027/00000001/art00002?crawler=true
Lane Council of Governments. 1992. “Hints on Preparing a Comprehensive Wetland Management Plan.”
Lane Council of Governments, Lane, Oregon.
Geographic Scope: National
Website: www.rice.edu/wetlands/Reports/R12_1.html

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Ocean and Great Lakes Resources
Section 309 Enhancement Objective: Planning for the use of ocean [and Great Lakes] resources.
§309(a)(7)

PHASE I (HIGH-LEVEL) ASSESSMENT: (Must be completed by all states and territories.)

Purpose: To quickly determine whether the enhancement area is a high priority enhancement objective
for the CMP that warrants a more in-depth assessment. The more in-depth assessments of Phase II will
help the CMP understand key problems and opportunities that exist for program enhancement and
determine the effectiveness of existing management efforts to address those problems.
Resource Characterization:
1. Understanding the ocean and Great Lakes economy can help improve management of the resources
it depends on. Using Economics: National Ocean Watch (ENOW), 31 indicate the status of the ocean
and Great Lakes economy as of 2010, as well as the change since 2005, in the tables below. Include
graphs and figures, as appropriate, to help illustrate the information. Note ENOW data are not
available for the territories. The territories can provide alternative data, if available, or a general
narrative, to capture the value of their ocean economy.
Status of Ocean and Great Lakes Economy for Coastal Counties (2010)
Establishments
Employment
Wages
(# of Establishments)

(# of Jobs)

(Millions of Dollars)

GDP

(Millions of Dollars)

Living Resources
Marine
Construction
Marine
Transportation
Offshore Mineral
Extraction
Tourism &
Recreation
All Ocean Sectors
Change in Ocean and Great Lakes Economy for Coastal Counties (2005-2010)
Establishments
Employment
Wages
(% change)

(% change)

GDP

(% change)

Living Resources
Marine
Construction
Marine
Transportation
Offshore Mineral
Extraction
Tourism &
Recreation
All Ocean Sectors
31

www.csc.noaa.gov/enow/explorer/. If you select any coastal county for your state, you receive a table comparing county data to state
coastal county, regional, and national information. Use the state column for your responses.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

2. In the table below, characterize how the threats to and use conflicts over ocean and Great Lakes
resources in the state’s or territory’s coastal zone have changed since the last assessment.
Significant Changes to Ocean and Great Lakes Resources and Uses
Change in the Threat to the Resource or Use Conflict
Since Last Assessment

Resource/Use

(↑, ↓, −, unkwn)

Resource
Benthic habitat (including coral reefs)
Living marine resources (fish, shellfish,
marine mammals, birds, etc.)
Sand/gravel
Cultural/historic
Other (please specify)
Use
Transportation/navigation
Offshore development 32
Energy production
Fishing (commercial and recreational)
Recreation/tourism
Sand/gravel extraction
Dredge disposal
Aquaculture
Other (please specify)

3. For the ocean and Great Lakes resources and uses in Table 2 (above) that had an increase in threat
to the resource or increased use conflict in the state’s or territory’s coastal zone since the last
assessment, characterize the major contributors to that increase.
Major Contributors to an Increase in Threat or Use Conflict to Ocean and Great Lakes Resources

Major Reasons Contributing to Increased Resource Threat or Use Conflict

Other (Specify)

Ocean
Acidification

Sand/Mineral
Extraction

Aquaculture

Dredging

Fishing (Comm
& Rec)

Marine
Transportation

Invasive
species

Recreation

Polluted runoff

Example: Living marine resources
[Resource or Use from Table 2]
[Resource or Use from Table 2]

Offshore
development

Resource

Land-based
development

(Note All that Apply with “X”)

Offshore development includes underwater cables and pipelines, although any infrastructure specifically associated with the energy industry
should be captured under the “energy production” category.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

4. If available, briefly list and summarize the results of any additional state- or territory-specific data or
reports on the status and trends of ocean and Great Lakes resources or threats to those resources
since the last assessment to augment the national data sets.
Management Characterization:
1. Indicate if the approach is employed by the state or territory and if any significant state- or territorylevel changes (positive or negative) in the management of ocean and Great Lakes resources have
occurred since the last assessment?

Management Category

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ

Employed by State
or Territory
(Y or N)

(Y or N)

Significant Changes Since
Last Assessment
(Y or N)

Statutes, regulations, policies,
or case law interpreting these
Regional comprehensive
ocean/Great Lakes
management plans
State comprehensive
ocean/Great Lakes
management plans
Single-sector management
plans

2. For any management categories with significant changes, briefly provide the information below. If
this information is provided under another enhancement area or section of the document, please
provide a reference to the other section rather than duplicate the information:
a. Describe the significance of the changes;
b. Specify if they were 309 or other CZM-driven changes; and
c. Characterize the outcomes or likely future outcomes of the changes.
3. Indicate if your state or territory has a comprehensive ocean or Great Lakes management plan.
Comprehensive Ocean/Great Lakes
Management Plan
Completed plan (Y/N) (If yes, specify
year completed)
Under development (Y/N)
Web address (if available)
Area covered by plan

State Plan

Regional Plan

Enhancement Area Prioritization:
1. What level of priority is the enhancement area for the coastal management program?
High
Medium
Low

_____
_____
_____
46

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

2. Briefly explain the reason for this level of priority. Include input from stakeholder engagement,
including the types of stakeholders engaged.
*********************************************

RESOURCES AND TOOLS:
Below are a few national resources and tools that may be useful in conducting your assessment or
developing strategies for ocean and Great Lakes Resources. States likely have other state-specific
resources, tools, and data that would be useful as well.
BOEM Environmental Studies Program
The Bureau of Ocean and Energy Management’s (BOEM) Environmental Studies Program develops,
conducts, and oversees world-class scientific research specifically to inform policy decisions regarding
development of Outer Continental Shelf energy and mineral resources. Research covers physical
oceanography, atmospheric sciences, biology, protected species, social sciences and economics,
submerged cultural resources, and environmental fates and effects.
Geographic Scope: Specific to each study
Website: www.boem.gov/Studies/
MarineCadastre.gov Viewer
This data viewer provides the baseline information needed for ocean planning efforts, particularly those
that involve finding the best location for renewable energy projects. Users pick the ocean geography of
their choosing and quickly see the applicable jurisdictional boundaries, restricted areas, laws, critical
habitat locations, and other important features. With the national viewer, potential conflicts can be
identified and avoided early in the planning process, and users can visually analyze and explore
geospatial data for marine spatial planning activities and find direct access to authoritative marine
cadastral data from federal and state sources.
Geographic Scope: National
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/mmc
NOAA Assessment of Existing Information on Atlantic Coastal Fish Habitats
This project reviewed over 500 published sources of information on habitat condition indicators,
threats, and conservation actions for U.S. Atlantic coastal waters and watersheds. Results are available
via web query tools and a published NOAA technical memo.
Geographic Scope: Atlantic coastal waters, from Maine to Florida
Websites (query tools): www8.nos.noaa.gov/bhv/spatbibindex.html; tech memo:
http://ccma.nos.noaa.gov/publications/nccostechmemo103.pdf
NOAA Coastal County Snapshots: Ocean Jobs
Provides a snapshot of the economic value of ocean and Great Lakes jobs within a coastal county.
Geographic Scope: Coastal states only. Currently not available for territories.
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/snapshots

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

NOAA Economics: National Ocean Watch Data (ENOW)
The effective management of coastal resources requires an understanding of the ocean and Great Lakes
economy. This tool allows users to interact with ENOW data, which describe six economic sectors that
depend on the oceans and Great Lakes: living resources; marine construction; marine transportation;
offshore mineral resources; ship and boat building; and tourism and recreation. Users can discover
which sectors are the largest in various parts of the county, which sectors are growing and declining, and
which account for the most jobs, wages, and gross domestic product. They can view up to four counties,
states, or regions to compare trends or the makeup of their ocean and Great Lakes economies. The
ENOW Explorer’s interface is designed to allow users who are familiar with economic data to interact
with and view data and trends. The tool provides the highest level of interaction with ENOW data short
of downloading the full data set.
Geographic Scope: National and regional
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/enow
NOAA Essential Fish Habitat Mapper
The Essential Fish Habitat Mapper is an online tool that displays essential fish habitat, and habitat areas
of particular concern, established under provisions in the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and
Management Act. The tool also includes areas where steps have been taken to minimize the impact that
fisheries have on essential fish habitat, including anchoring restrictions, required fishing gear
modifications, and bans on certain types of gear. Users can query information from multiple fishery
management plans at once to view habitat maps and lists of species for a specific location. The tool
displays habitat maps and species lists for specific locations, queries spatial information from multiple
fishery management plans at once, and provides links to text descriptions and data inventories,
including related fishery management plans, federal regulations, and data and metadata download.
Geographic Scope: National and regional
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/efhmapper
OceanData.gov
The National Ocean Council’s portal for data, information, and decision tools to support people engaged
in regional marine planning for the future use of the ocean, coasts, and Great Lakes.
Geographic Scope: National and regional
Website: http://www.data.gov/ocean/community/ocean
U.S. Marine Protected Areas Mapping Tool
The U.S. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) mapping tool is an online application designed to help users
visualize MPA boundaries and provide access to MPA Inventory data. This mapping tool provides data
on over 1,600 MPAs nationwide, offering easy access to spatial boundaries, conservation-based
classification data, and site management information. Managers, scientists, and the public will find a
detailed picture of the type, abundance, and distribution of MPAs throughout the United States, gaining
an increased understanding and technical capacity for ocean resource protection, management, and
stewardship. The tool visualizes patterns and characteristics of MPAs throughout the United States and
filters the MPA Inventory in various ways to show only certain MPAs with specific attributes.
Geographic Scope: National and regional
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/mpaviewer

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Energy and Government Facility Siting
Section 309 Enhancement Objective: Adoption of procedures and enforceable policies to help facilitate
the siting of energy facilities and Government facilities and energy-related activities and Government
activities which may be of greater than local significance. §309(a)(8)33

PHASE I (HIGH-LEVEL) ASSESSMENT: (Must be completed by all states and territories.)

Purpose: To quickly determine whether the enhancement area is a high priority enhancement objective
for the CMP that warrants a more in-depth assessment. The more in-depth assessments of Phase II will
help the CMP understand key problems and opportunities that exist for program enhancement and
determine the effectiveness of existing management efforts to address those problems.
Resource Characterization:
1. In the table below, characterize the status and trends of different types of energy facilities and
activities in the state’s or territory’s coastal zone based on best available data. If available, identify
the approximate number of facilities by type. The MarineCadastre.gov may be helpful in locating
many types of energy facilities in the coastal zone.
Status and Trends in Energy Facilities and Activities in the Coastal Zone
Exists in CZ
Proposed in CZ
Type of Energy
Change Since Last Assessment
Change Since Last Assessment
(# or Y/N)
(# or Y/N)
Facility/Activity
(↑, ↓, −, unkwn)
(↑, ↓, −, unkwn)
Energy Transport
Pipelines 34
Electrical grid
(transmission cables)
Ports
Liquid natural gas (LNG) 35
Other (please specify)
Energy Facilities
Oil and gas
Coal
Nuclear 36
Wind
Wave 37
Tidal36
33

CZMA § 309(a)(8) is derived from program approval requirements in CZMA § 306(d)(8), which states:
“The management program provides for adequate consideration of the national interest involved in planning for, and managing the
coastal zone, including the siting of facilities such as energy facilities which are of greater than local significance. In the case of energy
facilities, the Secretary shall find that the State has given consideration to any applicable national or interstate energy plan or program.”
NOAA regulations at 15 C.F.R. § 923.52 further describe what states need to do regarding national interest and consideration of interests that
are greater than local interests.
34
For approved pipelines (1997-present): www.ferc.gov/industries/gas/indus-act/pipelines/approved-projects.asp
35
For approved FERC jurisdictional LNG import/export terminals: www.ferc.gov/industries/gas/indus-act/lng/exist-term.asp
36
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission provides a coarse national map of where nuclear power reactors are located as well as a list that reflects
there general locations: www.nrc.gov/reactors/operating/map-power-reactors.html
37
For FERC hydrokinetic projects: www.ferc.gov/industries/hydropower/gen-info/licensing/hydrokinetics.asp

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle
Status and Trends in Energy Facilities and Activities in the Coastal Zone
Exists in CZ
Proposed in CZ
Type of Energy
Change Since Last Assessment
Change Since Last Assessment
(# or Y/N)
(# or Y/N)
Facility/Activity
(↑, ↓, −, unkwn)

(↑, ↓, −, unkwn)

Current (ocean, lake,
river) 36
Hydropower
Ocean thermal energy
conversion
Solar
Biomass
Other (please specify)

2. If available, briefly list and summarize the results of any additional state- or territory-specific
information, data, or reports on the status and trends for energy facilities and activities of greater
than local significance in the coastal zone since the last assessment.
3. Briefly characterize the existing status and trends for federal government facilities and activities of
greater than local significance 38 in the state’s coastal zone since the last assessment.
Management Characterization:
1. Indicate if the approach is employed by the state or territory and if significant state- or territorylevel changes (positive or negative) that could facilitate or impede energy and government facility
siting and activities have occurred since the last assessment.

Management Category

Employed by State or
Territory
(Y or N)

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ
(Y or N)

Significant Changes Since
Last Assessment
(Y or N)

Statutes, regulations, policies,
or case law interpreting these
State comprehensive siting
plans or procedures

The CMP should make its own assessment of what Government facilities may be considered “greater than local significance” in its coastal
zone, but these facilities could include military installations or a significant federal government complex. An individual federal building may not
rise to a level worthy of discussion here beyond a very cursory (if any at all) mention).

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Enhancement Area Prioritization:
1. What level of priority is the enhancement area for the coastal management program?
High
Medium
Low

_____
_____
_____

2. Briefly explain the reason for this level of priority. Include input from stakeholder engagement,
including the types of stakeholders engaged.
*********************************************

RESOURCES AND TOOLS:
Below are a few national resources and tools that may be useful in conducting your assessment or
developing energy and federal government facilities strategies. States likely have other state-specific
resources, tools, and data that would be useful as well.
BOEM Environmental Studies Program
The Bureau of Ocean and Energy Management’s (BOEM) Environmental Studies Program develops,
conducts, and oversees world-class scientific research specifically to inform policy decisions regarding
development of Outer Continental Shelf energy and mineral resources. Research covers physical
oceanography, atmospheric sciences, biology, protected species, social sciences and economics,
submerged cultural resources, and environmental fates and effects.
Geographic Scope: Specific to each study
Website: www.boem.gov/Studies/
U.S. Energy Information Administration
The U.S. Energy Information Administration collects, analyzes, and disseminates independent and
impartial energy information to promote sound policy making, efficient markets, and public
understanding of energy and its interaction with the economy and the environment. The site includes a
wealth of information on energy demand, use, and production (nationally, by region, and by energy
sector).
Geographic Scope: National and regional
Website: www.eia.gov
FERC Projects
The Federal Energy and Regulatory Commission (FERC) has authority over electricity, natural gas
(including LNG), and hydropower and hydrokinetic projects. The site has information on current and
pending projects as well as market demands.
Geographic scope: National
Website: www.ferc.gov/for-citizens/projectsearch/SearchProjects.aspx
GSA Lists of Federally Owned and Leased Facilities
The Government Services Agency (GSA) maintains a national list of all federally owned and leased
facilities in each state.
Geographic scope: National
Website: www.iolp.gsa.gov/iolp/NationalMap.asp
51

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

MarineCadastre.gov Viewer
This data viewer provides the baseline information needed for ocean planning efforts, particularly those
that involve finding the best location for renewable energy projects. Users choose an ocean geography
and quickly see the applicable jurisdictional boundaries, restricted areas, laws, critical habitat locations,
and other important features. With the national viewer, potential conflicts can be identified and avoided
early in the planning process, and users can visually analyze and explore geospatial data for marine
spatial planning activities and find direct access to authoritative marine cadastral data from federal and
state sources.
Geographic Scope: National
Website: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/mmc
NOAA Economics: National Ocean Watch Data (ENOW)
The effective management of coastal resources requires an understanding of the ocean and Great Lakes
economy. This tool allows users to interact with ENOW data, which describe six economic sectors that
depend on the oceans and Great Lakes: living resources; marine construction; marine transportation;
offshore mineral resources; ship and boat building; and tourism and recreation. Users can discover
which sectors are the largest in various parts of the county, which sectors are growing and declining, and
which account for the most jobs, wages, and gross domestic product. They can view up to four counties,
states, or regions to compare trends or the makeup of their ocean and Great Lakes economies. The
ENOW Explorer’s interface is designed to allow users who are familiar with economic data to interact
with and view data and trends. The tool provides the highest level of interaction with ENOW data short
of downloading the full data set.
Geographic Scope: National and regional
Website: http://www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/data/enow

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Aquaculture
Section 309 Enhancement Objective: Adoption of procedures and policies to evaluate and facilitate the
siting of public and private aquaculture facilities in the coastal zone, which will enable states to
formulate, administer, and implement strategic plans for marine aquaculture. §309(a)(9)

PHASE I (HIGH-LEVEL) ASSESSMENT: (Must be completed by all states and territories.)

Status and Trends of Aquaculture Facilities and Activities
Approximate
Change Since Last Assessment
# of Facilities 40
(↑, ↓, −, unkwn)
Economic Value

2. If available, briefly list and summarize the results of any additional state- or territory-specific data or
reports on the status and trends or potential impacts from aquaculture activities in the coastal zone
since the last assessment.
Management Characterization:
1. Indicate if the approach is employed by the state or territory and if there have been any state- or
territory-level changes (positive or negative) that could facilitate or impede the siting of public or
private aquaculture facilities in the coastal zone.

Management Category

Employed by State or
Territory
(Y or N)

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ
(Y or N)

Significant Changes Since
Last Assessment
(Y or N)

Aquaculture comprehensive
siting plans or procedures
39

While focused on statewide aquaculture data rather than just within the coastal zone, the Census of Aquaculture
(www.agcensus.usda.gov/Publications/2002/Aquaculture/) may help in developing your aquaculture assessment. The 2002 report, updated in
2005, provides a variety of state-specific aquaculture data for 2005 and 1998 to understand current status and recent trends. The next census is
scheduled to come out late 2014 and will provide 2013 data.
40
Be as specific as possible. For example, if you have specific information of the number of each type of facility or activity, note that. If you only
have approximate figures, note “more than” or “approximately” before the number. If information is unknown, note that and use the narrative
section below to provide a brief qualitative description based on the best information available.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle
Other aquaculture statutes,
regulations, policies, or case
law interpreting these

_____
_____
_____

2. Briefly explain the reason for this level of priority. Include input from stakeholder engagement,
including the types of stakeholders engaged.
****************************************************

RESOURCES AND TOOLS:
Below are a few national resources and tools that may be useful in conducting your assessment or
developing aquaculture strategies. States likely have other state-specific resources, tools, and data that
would be useful as well.
NOAA Office of Aquaculture
The Office of Aquaculture fosters sustainable aquaculture that will create employment and business
opportunities in coastal communities; provide safe, sustainable seafood; and complement NOAA’s
comprehensive strategy for maintaining healthy and productive marine populations, species, and
ecosystems and vibrant coastal communities.
Geographic Coverage: National and regional
Website: www.nmfs.noaa.gov/aquaculture/index.htm
USDA Census of Aquaculture
The U.S. Department of Agriculture publishes the Census of Aquaculture. The census provides a variety
of state-specific aquaculture data for 2005 and 1998 to understand current status and recent trends.
The next census is scheduled to come out late 2014 and will provide 2013 data.
Geographic Coverage: National
Website: www.agcensus.usda.gov/Publications/2002/Aquaculture/

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Appendix B: Phase II Assessment Templates
Complete Phase II assessments, using the templates in this section, only for enhancement areas that
are identified as high priority for the CMP after the Phase I (high-level) assessments.
Note: Identifying an enhancement area as a high priority does not necessarily mean the CMP would be
required to develop a strategy for the enhancement area given other priority enhancement areas and
available resources.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Wetlands
In-Depth Resource Characterization:
Purpose: To determine key problems and opportunities to improve the CMP’s ability to protect, restore,
and enhance wetlands.
1. What are the three most significant existing or emerging physical stressors or threats to wetlands
within the coastal zone? Indicate the geographic scope of the stressor, i.e., is it prevalent
throughout the coastal zone or specific areas that are most threatened? Stressors can be
development/fill; hydrological alteration/channelization; erosion; pollution; invasive species;
freshwater input; sea level rise/Great Lake level change; or other (please specify). When selecting
significant stressors, also consider how climate change may exacerbate each stressor.
Stressor/Threat

Geographic Scope

(throughout coastal zone or specific areas most threatened)

Stressor 1
Stressor 2
Stressor 3

2. Briefly explain why these are currently the most significant stressors or threats to wetlands within
the coastal zone. Cite stakeholder input and/or existing reports or studies to support this
assessment.
3. Are there emerging issues of concern but which lack sufficient information to evaluate the level of
the potential threat? If so, please list. Include additional lines if needed.
Emerging Issue

Information Needed

In-Depth Management Characterization:
Purpose: To determine the effectiveness of management efforts to address identified problems related to
the wetlands enhancement objective.
1. For each additional wetland management category below that was not already discussed as part of
the Phase I assessment, indicate if the approach is employed by the state or territory and if
significant state- or territory-level changes (positive or negative) have occurred since the last
assessment.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Management Category

Employed By State or
Territory
(Y or N)

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ

Significant Changes
Since Last Assessment

(Y or N)

Wetland assessment
methodologies
Wetland mapping and GIS
Watershed or special area
management plans addressing
wetlands
Wetland technical assistance,
education, and outreach
Other (please specify)

2. For management categories with significant changes since the last assessment, briefly provide the
information below. If this information is provided under another enhancement area or section of
the document, please provide a reference to the other section rather than duplicate the
information.
a. Describe significant changes since the last assessment;
b. Specify if they were 309 or other CZM-driven changes; and
c. Characterize the outcomes or likely future outcomes of the changes.
3. Identify and describe the conclusions of any studies that have been done that illustrate the
effectiveness of the state’s or territory’s management efforts in protecting, restoring, and enhancing
coastal wetlands since the last assessment. If none, is there any information that you are lacking to
assess the effectiveness of the state’s or territory’s management efforts?
Identification of Priorities:
1. Considering changes in wetlands and wetland management since the last assessment and
stakeholder input, identify and briefly describe the top one to three management priorities where
there is the greatest opportunity for the CMP to improve its ability to more effectively respond to
significant wetlands stressors. (Approximately 1-3 sentences per management priority.)
Management Priority 1: _________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 2: ________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 3: ________________________________________________
Description:

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

2. Identify and briefly explain priority needs and information gaps the CMP has to help it address the
management priorities identified above. The needs and gaps identified here do not need to be
limited to those items that will be addressed through a Section 309 strategy but should include any
items that will be part of a strategy.
Priority Needs

Need?

Brief Explanation of Need/Gap

(Y or N)

Research
Mapping/GIS
Data and information
management
Training/capacity
building
Decision-support
tools
Communication and
outreach
Other (Specify)

Enhancement Area Strategy Development:
1. Will the CMP develop one or more strategies for this enhancement area?
Yes
______
No
______
2. Briefly explain why a strategy will or will not be developed for this enhancement area.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Coastal Hazards
In-Depth Resource Characterization:
Purpose: To determine key problems and opportunities to improve the CMP’s ability to prevent or
significantly reduce coastal hazard risks by eliminating development and redevelopment in high-hazard
areas and managing the effects of potential sea level rise and Great Lakes level change.
1a. Flooding In-depth (for all states besides territories): Using data from NOAA’s State of the Coast
“Population in the Floodplain” viewer 41 and summarized by coastal county through NOAA’s Coastal
County Snapshots for Flood Exposure, 42 indicate how many people at potentially elevated risk were
located within the state’s coastal floodplain as of 2010. These data only reflect two types of
vulnerable populations. You can provide additional or alternative information or use graphs or other
visuals to help illustrate or replace the table entirely if better data are available. Note: National data
are not available for territories. Territories can omit this question unless they have similar alternative
data or include a brief qualitative narrative description as a substitute.
2010 Populations in Coastal Counties at Potentially Elevated Risk to Coastal Flooding 43
Under 5 and Over 65 years old
In Poverty
# of people
% Under 5/Over 65
# of people
% in Poverty
Inside Floodplain
Outside Floodplain

1b. Flooding In-depth (for all states besides territories): Using summary data provided for critical
facilities, derived from FEMA’s HAZUS 44 and displayed by coastal county through NOAA’s Coastal
County Snapshots for Flood Exposure, 45 indicate how many different establishments (businesses or
employers) and critical facilities are located in the FEMA floodplain. You can provide more
information or use graphs or other visuals to help illustrate or replace the table entirely if better
information is available.

Schools
Inside
Floodplain
Coastal
Counties

Critical Facilities in the FEMA Floodplain44
Police
Emergency
Fire Stations
Stations
Centers

Medical
Facilities

Communication
Towers

2. Based on the characterization of coastal hazard risk, what are the three most significant coastal
hazards 46 within the coastal zone? Also indicate the geographic scope of the hazard, i.e., is it
prevalent throughout the coastal zone or are specific areas most at risk?

http://stateofthecoast.noaa.gov/pop100yr/welcome.html
http://www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/snapshots
43
To obtain exact population numbers for the coastal floodplain, download the excel data file from the State of the Coast’s “Population in
Floodplain” viewer.
44
http://www.fema.gov/hazus; can also download data from NOAA STICS http://www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/data/stics. Summary data on
critical facilities for each coastal state is available on the ftp site.
45
http://www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/snapshots
46
See list of coastal hazards at the beginning of this assessment template.
42

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Type of Hazard

Geographic Scope

(throughout coastal zone or specific areas most threatened)

Hazard 1
Hazard 2
Hazard 3

3. Briefly explain why these are currently the most significant coastal hazards within the coastal zone.
Cite stakeholder input and/or existing reports or studies to support this assessment.
4. Are there emerging issues of concern, but which lack sufficient information to evaluate the level of
the potential threat? If so, please list. Include additional lines if needed.
Emerging Issue

Information Needed

In-Depth Management Characterization:
Purpose: To determine the effectiveness of management efforts to address identified problems related to
the coastal hazards enhancement objective.
1. For each coastal hazard management category below, indicate if the approach is employed by the
state or territory and if there has been a significant change since the last assessment.

Management Category

Employed by
State/Territory
(Y or N)

Statutes, Regulations, and Policies:
Shorefront setbacks/no build areas
Rolling easements
Repair/rebuilding restrictions
Hard shoreline protection structure restrictions
Promotion of alternative shoreline stabilization
methodologies (i.e., living shorelines/green
infrastructure)
Repair/replacement of shore protection structure
restrictions
Inlet management
Protection of important natural resources for
hazard mitigation benefits (e.g., dunes, wetlands,
barrier islands, coral reefs) (other than setbacks/no
build areas)
Repetitive flood loss policies (e.g., relocation,
buyouts)
Freeboard requirements
Real estate sales disclosure requirements
Restrictions on publicly funded infrastructure
Infrastructure protection (e.g., considering hazards

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ
(Y or N)

Significant
Change Since
the Last
Assessment
(Y or N)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle
in siting and design)
Other (please specify)
Management Planning Programs or Initiatives:
Hazard mitigation plans
Sea level rise/Great Lake level change or climate
change adaptation plans
Statewide requirement for local post-disaster
recovery planning
Sediment management plans
Beach nourishment plans
Special Area Management Plans (that address
hazards issues)
Managed retreat plans
Other (please specify)
Research, Mapping, and Education Programs or Initiatives:
General hazards mapping or modeling
Sea level rise mapping or modeling
Hazards monitoring (e.g., erosion rate, shoreline
change, high-water marks)
Hazards education and outreach
Other (please specify)

2. Identify and describe the conclusions of any studies that have been done that illustrate the
effectiveness of the state’s management efforts in addressing coastal hazards since the last
assessment. If none, is there any information that you are lacking to assess the effectiveness of the
state’s management efforts?
Identification of Priorities:
1. Considering changes in coastal hazard risk and coastal hazard management since the last
assessment and stakeholder input, identify and briefly describe the top one to three management
priorities where there is the greatest opportunity for the CMP to improve its ability to more
effectively address the most significant hazard risks. (Approximately 1-3 sentences per management
priority.)
Management Priority 1: _________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 2: ________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 3: ________________________________________________
Description:

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

2. Identify and briefly explain priority needs and information gaps the CMP has for addressing the
management priorities identified above. The needs and gaps identified here should not be limited to
those items that will be addressed through a Section 309 strategy but should include any items that
will be part of a strategy.
Priority Needs

Need?

Brief Explanation of Need/Gap

(Y or N)

Research
Mapping/GIS/modeling
Data and information
management
Training/Capacity building
Decision-support tools
Communication and
outreach
Other (Specify)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Public Access
In-Depth Resource Characterization:
Purpose: To determine key problems and opportunities to improve the CMP’s ability to increase and
enhance public access opportunities to coastal areas.
1. Use the table below to provide additional data on public access availability within the coastal zone
not reported in the Phase I assessment.

Type of Access
Access sites that
are ADA
compliant 49

Current
number 47

Public Access Status and Trends
Changes or Trends Since Last Assessment 48
(↑, ↓, −, unkwn)

Cite data source

No. of Sites
Percent of Sites

2. What are the three most significant existing or emerging threats or stressors to creating or
maintaining public access within the coastal zone? Indicate the geographic scope of the stressor, i.e.,
is it prevalent throughout the coastal zone or are specific areas most threatened? Stressors can be
private development (including conversion of public facilities to private); non-water-dependent
commercial or industrial uses of the waterfront; increased demand; erosion; sea level rise or Great
Lakes level change; natural disasters; national security; encroachment on public land; or other
(please specify). When selecting significant stressors, also consider how climate change may
exacerbate each stressor.
Stressor/Threat

Geographic Scope

(throughout coastal zone or specific areas most threatened)

Stressor 1
Stressor 2
Stressor 3

3. Briefly explain why these are currently the most significant stressors or threats to public access
within the coastal zone. Cite stakeholder input and/or existing reports or studies to support this
assessment.
4. Are there emerging issues of concern, but which lack sufficient information to evaluate the level of
the potential threat? If so, please list. Include additional lines if needed.

Be as specific as possible. For example, if you have data on many access sites but know it is not an exhaustive list, note “more than” before
the number. If information is unknown, note that and use the narrative section below to provide a brief qualitative description based on the
best information available.
48
If you know specific numbers, please provide. However, if specific numbers are unknown but you know that the general trend was increasing
or decreasing or relatively stable/unchanged since the last assessment, note that with a ↑ (increased), ↓ (decreased), − (unchanged). If the
trend is completely unknown, simply put “unkwn.”
49
For more information on ADA see www.ada.gov.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle
Emerging Issue

Information Needed

In-Depth Management Characterization:
Purpose: To determine the effectiveness of management efforts to address identified problems related to
the public access enhancement objective.
1. For each additional public access management category below that was not already discussed as
part of the Phase I assessment, indicate if the approach is employed by the state or territory and if
significant changes (positive or negative) have occurred at the state- or territory-level since the last
assessment.

Management Category

Employed by
State/Territory
(Y or N)

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ
(Y or N)

Significant Changes
Since Last
Assessment
(Y or N)

Comprehensive access management
planning
GIS mapping/database of access
sites
Public access technical assistance,
education, and outreach (including
access point and interpretive
signage, etc.)
Other (please specify)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Management Priority 1: _________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 2: ________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 3: ________________________________________________
Description:
2. Identify and briefly explain priority needs and information gaps the CMP has to help it address the
management priorities identified above. The needs and gaps identified here do not need to be
limited to those items that will be addressed through a Section 309 strategy but should include any
items that will be part of a strategy.
Priority Needs

Need?
(Y or N)

Brief Explanation of Need/Gap

Research
Mapping/GIS
Data and information
management
Training/Capacity
building
Decision-support tools
Communication and
outreach
Other (Specify)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Marine Debris
In-Depth Resource Characterization:
Purpose: To determine key problems and opportunities to improve the CMP’s ability to effectively
management marine debris in the coastal zone.
1. What are the three most significant existing or emerging challenges related to marine debris within
the coastal zone? Indicate the geographic scope of the challenge, i.e., is it prevalent throughout the
coastal zone or are specific areas most threatened? Challenges can be land or ocean-based marine
debris reduction (e.g., behavior change to reduce waste, increase recycling, or litter less);
catastrophic event related debris; marine debris identification and removal; research and
monitoring; education and outreach; or other (please specify). When selecting significant
challenges, also consider how climate change may exacerbate each challenge.
Geographic Scope

Challenges

(throughout coastal zone or specific areas most threatened)

Challenge 1
Challenge 2
Challenge 3

2. Briefly explain why these are currently the most significant challenges related to marine debris in
the coastal zone. Cite stakeholder input and/or existing reports or studies to support this
assessment.
3. Are there emerging issues of concern, but which lack sufficient information to evaluate the level of
the potential threat? If so, please list. Include additional lines if needed.
Emerging Issue

Information Needed

In-Depth Management Characterization:
Purpose: To determine the effectiveness of management efforts to address identified problems related to
the marine debris enhancement objective.
1. For each additional marine debris management category below that was not already discussed as
part of the Phase I assessment, indicate if the approach is employed by the state or territory and
indicate if significant state- or territory-level changes (positive or negative) have occurred since the
last assessment.

Management Category

Employed by State or
Territory
(Y or N)

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ
(Y or N)

Marine debris research, assessment,
monitoring
Marine debris GIS mapping/database
Marine debris technical assistance,

Significant Changes
Since Last Assessment
(Y or N)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle
education, and outreach
Marine debris reduction programs
(litter control, recycling, etc.)
Other (please specify)

2. For management categories with significant changes since the last assessment, briefly provide the
information below. If this information is provided under another enhancement area or section of
the document, please provide a reference to the other section rather than duplicate the
information.
a) Describe significant changes since the last assessment;
b) Specify if they were 309 or other CZM-driven changes; and
c) Characterize the outcomes or likely future outcomes of the changes.
3. Identify and describe the conclusions of any studies that have been done that illustrate the
effectiveness of the state’s or territory’s management efforts to reduce marine debris since the last
assessment. If none, is there any information that you are lacking to assess the effectiveness of the
state’s or territory’s management efforts?
Identification of Priorities:
1. Considering changes in marine debris and marine debris management since the last assessment, as
well as stakeholder input, identify and briefly describe the top one to three management priorities
where there is the greatest opportunity for the CMP to improve the effectiveness of its
management effort to better respond to the most significant marine debris challenges.
(Approximately 1-3 sentences per management priority.)
Management Priority 1: _________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 2: ________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 3: ________________________________________________
Description:
2. Identify and briefly explain priority needs and information gaps the CMP has to help it address the
management priorities identified above. The needs and gaps identified here do not need to be
limited to those items that will be addressed through a Section 309 strategy but should include any
items that will be part of a strategy.
Priority Needs

Need?
(Y or N)

Brief Explanation of Need/Gap

Research
Mapping/GIS

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle
Data and information
management
Training/Capacity
building
Decision-support tools
Communication and
outreach
Other (Specify)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Cumulative and Secondary Impacts
In-Depth Resource Characterization:
Purpose: To determine key problems and opportunities to improve the CMP’s ability to address
cumulative and secondary impacts of coastal growth and development.
1. What are the three most significant existing or emerging cumulative and secondary stressors or
threats within the coastal zone? Indicate the geographic scope of the stressor, i.e., is it prevalent
throughout the coastal zone or are there specific areas that are most threatened? Stressors can be
coastal development and impervious surfaces; polluted runoff; agriculture activities; forestry
activities; shoreline modification; or other (please specify). Coastal resources and uses can be
habitat (wetland or shoreline, etc.); water quality; public access; or other (please specify). When
selecting significant stressors, also consider how climate change may exacerbate each stressor.
Geographic Scope

Coastal Resource(s)/Use(s) Most
Threatened

Stressor/Threat

(throughout coastal zone or specific areas
most threatened)

Stressor 1
Stressor 2
Stressor 3

2. Briefly explain why these are currently the most significant cumulative and secondary stressors or
threats from coastal growth and development within the coastal zone. Cite stakeholder input and/or
existing reports or studies to support this assessment.
3. Are there emerging issues of concern, but which lack sufficient information to evaluate the level of
the potential threat? If so, please list. Include additional lines if needed.
Emerging Issue

Information Needed

In-Depth Management Characterization:
Purpose: To determine the effectiveness of management efforts to address identified problems related to
the cumulative and secondary impacts enhancement objective.
1. For each additional cumulative and secondary impact management category below that is not
already discussed as part of the Phase I assessment, indicate if the approach is employed by the
state or territory and if significant state- or territory-level changes (positive or negative) have
occurred since the last assessment.

Management Category

Employed by State or
Territory
(Y or N)

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ
(Y or N)

Methodologies for
determining CSI impacts
CSI research, assessment,

Significant Changes Since
Last Assessment
(Y or N)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle
monitoring
CSI GIS mapping/database
CSI technical assistance,
education and outreach
Other (please specify)

2. For management categories with significant changes since the last assessment, briefly provide the
information below. If this information is provided under another enhancement area or section of
the document, please provide a reference to the other section rather than duplicate the
information.
a. Describe significant changes since the last assessment;
b. Specify if they were 309 or other CZM-driven changes; and
c. Characterize the outcomes or likely future outcomes of the changes.
3. Identify and describe the conclusions of any studies that have been done that illustrate the
effectiveness of the state’s or territory’s management efforts in addressing cumulative and
secondary impacts of development since the last assessment. If none, is there any information that
you are lacking to assess the effectiveness of the state and territory’s management efforts?
Identification of Priorities:
1. Considering changes in cumulative and secondary impact threats and management since the last
assessment and stakeholder input, identify and briefly describe the top one to three management
priorities where there is the greatest opportunity for the CMP to improve the effectiveness of its
management effort to better assess, consider, and control the most significant threats from
cumulative and secondary impacts of coastal growth and development. (Approximately 1-3
sentences per management priority.)
Management Priority 1: _________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 2: ________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 3: ________________________________________________
Description:
2. Identify and briefly explain priority needs and information gaps the CMP has to help it address the
management priorities identified above. The needs and gaps identified here do not need to be
limited to those items that will be addressed through a Section 309 strategy but should include any
items that will be part of a strategy.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Priority Needs

Need?

Brief Explanation of Need/Gap

(Y or N)

Research
Mapping/GIS
Data and information
management
Training/Capacity
building
Decision-support
tools
Communication and
outreach
Other (Specify)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Special Area Management Planning
In-Depth Resource Characterization:
Purpose: To determine key problems and opportunities regarding the preparation and implementation of
special area management plans for important coastal areas.
1. What are the one to three most significant geographic areas facing existing or emerging challenges
that would benefit from a new or revised special area management plan (SAMP) or better
implementation of an existing SAMP? For example, are there areas where existing management
approaches are not working and could be improved by better coordination across multiple levels of
government? What challenges are these areas facing? Challenges can be a need for enhanced
natural resource protection; use conflicts; coordinating regulatory processes or review; additional
data or information needs; education and outreach regarding SAMP policies; or other (please
specify). When selecting significant challenges, also consider how climate change may exacerbate
each challenge.
Geographic Scope

(within an existing SAMP area (specify SAMP) or
within new geographic area (describe new area))

Challenges

Geographic
Area 1
Geographic
Area 2
Geographic
Area 3

2. Briefly explain why these are currently the most significant challenges that may require developing a
new SAMP, or revising or improving implementation of an existing SAMP. Cite stakeholder input
and/or existing reports or studies to support this assessment.
3. Are there emerging issues of concern, but which lack sufficient information to evaluate the level of
the potential threat? If so, please list. Include additional lines if needed.
Emerging Issue

Information Needed

In-Depth Management Characterization:
Purpose: To determine the effectiveness of management efforts to address identified problems related to
the special area management planning enhancement objective.
1. For each additional SAMP management category below that was not already discussed as part of the
Phase I assessment, indicate if the approach is employed by the state or territory and if significant
state- or territory-level changes (positive or negative) have occurred since the last assessment.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Management Category

Employed by State
or Territory
(Y or N)

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ

Significant Changes Since
Last Assessment

(Y or N)

SAMP research, assessment,
monitoring
SAMP GIS mapping/database
SAMP technical assistance, education,
and outreach
Other (please specify)

2. For management categories with significant changes since the last assessment, briefly provide the
information below. If this information is provided under another enhancement area or section of
the document, please provide a reference to the other section rather than duplicate the
information.
a. Describe significant changes since the last assessment;
b. Specify if they were 309 or other CZM-driven changes; and
c. Characterize the outcomes or likely future outcomes of the changes.
3. Identify and describe the conclusions of any studies that have been done that illustrate the
effectiveness of the state’s or territory’s special area management planning efforts since the last
assessment. If none, is there any information that you are lacking to assess the effectiveness of the
state’s or territory’s management efforts?
Identification of Priorities:
1. Considering changes with coastal resource protection or coastal use conflicts within defined
geographic areas, special area management planning activities since the last assessment, and
stakeholder input, identify and briefly describe the top one to three management priorities where
there is the greatest opportunity for the CMP to improve their ability to prepare and implement
special area management plans to effectively manage important coastal areas. (Approximately 1-3
sentences per management priority.)
Management Priority 1: _________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 2: ________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 3: ________________________________________________
Description:

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Need?
(Y or N)

Brief Explanation of Need/Gap

Research
Mapping/GIS
Data and information
management
Training/Capacity
building
Decision-support tools
Communication and
outreach
Other (Specify)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Ocean and Great Lakes Resources
In-Depth Resource Characterization:
Purpose: To determine key problems and opportunities to enhance the state CMP to better address
cumulative and secondary impacts of coastal growth and development.
1. What are the three most significant existing or emerging stressors or threats to ocean and Great
Lakes resources within the coastal zone? Indicate the geographic scope of the stressor, i.e., is it
prevalent throughout the coastal zone or are specific areas most threatened? Stressors can be landbased development; offshore development (including pipelines, cables); offshore energy
production; polluted runoff; invasive species; fishing (commercial and/or recreational); aquaculture;
recreation; marine transportation; dredging; sand or mineral extraction; ocean acidification; or
other (please specify). When selecting significant stressors, also consider how climate change may
exacerbate each stressor.
Geographic Scope

Stressor/Threat

(throughout coastal zone or specific areas most threatened)

Stressor 1
Stressor 2
Stressor 3

2. Briefly explain why these are currently the most significant stressors or threats to ocean and Great
Lakes resources within the coastal zone. Cite stakeholder input and/or existing reports or studies to
support this assessment.
3. Are there emerging issues of concern, but which lack sufficient information to evaluate the level of
the potential threat? If so, please list. Include additional lines if needed.
Emerging Issue

Information Needed

In-Depth Management Characterization:
Purpose: To determine the effectiveness of management efforts to address identified problems related to
the ocean and Great Lakes resources enhancement objective.
1. For each of the additional ocean and Great Lakes resources management categories below that
were not already discussed as part of the Phase I assessment, indicate if the approach is employed
by the state or territory and if significant state- or territory-level changes (positive or negative) have
occurred since the last assessment.

Management Category

Employed by State
or Territory
(Y or N)

Ocean and Great Lakes research,
assessment, monitoring
Ocean and Great Lakes GIS

CMP Provides
Assistance to
Locals that Employ
(Y or N)

Significant Changes Since
Last Assessment
(Y or N)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle
mapping/database
Ocean and Great Lakes technical
assistance, education, and outreach
Other (please specify)

2. For management categories with significant changes since the last assessment, briefly provide the
information below. If this information is provided under another enhancement area or section of
the document, please provide a reference to the other section rather than duplicate the
information.
a. Describe significant changes since the last assessment;
b. Specify if they were 309 or other CZM-driven changes; and
c. Characterize the outcomes or likely future outcomes of the changes.
3. Identify and describe the conclusions of any studies that have been done that illustrate the
effectiveness of the state’s or territory’s management efforts in planning for the use of ocean and
Great Lakes resources since the last assessment. If none, is there any information that you are
lacking to assess the effectiveness of the state’s or territory’s management efforts?
Identification of Priorities:
1. Considering changes in threats to ocean and Great Lakes resources and management since the last
assessment and stakeholder input, identify and briefly describe the top one to three management
priorities where there is the greatest opportunity for the CMP to improve its ability to effectively
plan for the use of ocean and Great Lakes resources. (Approximately 1-3 sentences per management
priority.)
Management Priority 1: _________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 2: ________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 3: ________________________________________________
Description:
2. Identify and briefly explain priority needs and information gaps the CMP has to help it address the
management priorities identified above. The needs and gaps identified here do not need to be
limited to those items that will be addressed through a Section 309 strategy but should include any
items that will be part of a strategy.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Priority Needs

Need?

Brief Explanation of Need/Gap

(Y or N)

Research
Mapping/GIS
Data and information
management
Training/Capacity
building
Decision-support
tools
Communication and
outreach
Other (Specify)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Energy and Government Facility Siting
In-Depth Resource Characterization:
Purpose: To determine key problems and opportunities relating to the siting of energy and government
facility siting and activities that may be of greater than local significance.
1. What are the three most significant existing or emerging challenges to facilitating energy and
government facility siting and activities within the coastal zone? Indicate the geographic scope of
the challenge, i.e., is it prevalent throughout the coastal zone or are specific areas most threatened?
Challenges can be conflicting uses; coastal resource impacts; coordinating regulatory processes or
review; insufficient data; natural disasters; national security; or other (please specify). When
selecting significant challenges, also consider how climate change may exacerbate each challenge.
Geographic Scope

Challenges

(throughout coastal zone or specific areas most threatened)

Challenge 1
Challenge 2
Challenge 3

2. Briefly explain why these are currently the most significant challenges to facilitating energy and
government facility siting and activities within the coastal zone. Cite stakeholder input and/or
existing reports or studies to support this assessment.
3. Are there emerging issues of concern, but which lack sufficient information to evaluate the level of
the potential threat? If so, please list. Include additional lines if needed.
Emerging Issue

Information Needed

In-Depth Management Characterization:
Purpose: To determine the effectiveness of management efforts to address identified problems related to
the energy and Government facilities enhancement objective.
1. For each additional energy and government facilities management category below that was not
already discussed as part of the Phase I assessment, indicate if the approach is employed by the
state or territory and if significant state- or territory-level changes (positive or negative) have
occurred since the last assessment.

Management Category

Employed by State
or Territory
(Y or N)

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ
(Y or N)

Energy and government
facility/activity research, assessment,
monitoring
Energy and government
facility/activity GIS mapping/database

Significant Changes Since
Last Assessment
(Y or N)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle
Energy and government facility siting
technical assistance, education, and
outreach
Other (please specify)

2. For management categories with significant changes since the last assessment, briefly provide the
information below. If this information is provided under another enhancement area or section of
the document, please provide a reference to the other section rather than duplicate the
information.
a. Describe significant changes since the last assessment;
b. Specify if they were 309 or other CZM-driven changes; and
c. Characterize the outcomes or likely future outcomes of the changes.
3. Identify and describe the conclusions of any studies that have been done that illustrate the
effectiveness of the state’s or territory’s management efforts in facilitating energy and government
facility siting and activities since the last assessment. If none, is there any information that you are
lacking to assess the effectiveness of the state’s or territory’s management efforts?
Identification of Priorities:
1. Considering changes in energy and government facility siting and activities, the management of
these facilities and activities since the last assessment, and stakeholder input, identify and briefly
describe the top one to three management priorities where there is the greatest opportunity for the
CMP to improve its ability to facilitate the siting of energy and government facilities and activities to
address the most significant energy and government facility siting and activity challenges identified.
(Approximately 1-3 sentences per management priority.)
Management Priority 1: _________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 2: ________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 3: ________________________________________________
Description:
2. Identify and briefly explain priority needs and information gaps the CMP has to help it address the
management priorities identified above. The needs and gaps identified here do not need to be
limited to those items that will be addressed through a Section 309 strategy but should include any
items that will be part of a strategy.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Priority Needs

Need?
(Y or N)

Brief Explanation of Need/Gap

Research
Mapping/GIS
data and information
management
Training/Capacity
building
Decision-support tools
Communication and
outreach
Other (Specify)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Aquaculture
In-Depth Resource Characterization:
Purpose: To determine key problems and opportunities for facilitating the siting of aquaculture facilities
in the coastal zone.
1. What are the three most significant existing or emerging challenges to facilitating the siting of
aquaculture facilities within the coastal zone? Indicate the geographic scope of the challenge, i.e., is
it prevalent throughout the coastal zone or are specific areas most threatened? Challenges can be
conflicting uses; coastal resource impacts; coordinating regulatory processes or review; insufficient
data; natural disasters; or other (please specify). When selecting significant challenges, also consider
how climate change may exacerbate each challenge.
Geographic Scope

Challenges

(throughout coastal zone or specific areas most threatened)

Challenge 1
Challenge 2
Challenge 3

2. Briefly explain why these are currently the most significant challenges to facilitating the siting of
aquaculture facilities in the coastal zone. Cite stakeholder input and/or existing reports or studies to
support this assessment.
3. Are there emerging issues of concern, but which lack sufficient information to evaluate the level of
the potential threat? If so, please list. Include additional lines if needed.
Emerging Issue

Information Needed

In-Depth Management Characterization:
Purpose: To determine the effectiveness of management efforts to address identified problems related to
the aquaculture enhancement objective.
1. For each additional aquaculture management category below that was not already discussed as part
of the Phase I assessment, indicate if it is employed by the state and if significant state- or territorylevel changes (positive or negative) have occurred since the last assessment.

Management Category

Employed by the
State
(Y or N)

CMP Provides
Assistance to Locals
that Employ
(Y or N)

Aquaculture research, assessment,
monitoring
Aquaculture GIS mapping/database
Aquaculture technical assistance,
education, and outreach
Other (please specify)

Significant Changes
Since Last Assessment
(Y or N)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

2. For management categories with significant changes since the last assessment, briefly provide the
information below. If this information is provided under another enhancement area or section of
the document, please provide a reference to the other section rather than duplicate the
information.
a. Describe significant changes since the last assessment;
b. Specify if they were 309 or other CZM-driven changes; and
c. Characterize the outcomes or likely future outcomes of the changes.
3. Identify and describe the conclusions of any studies that have been done that illustrate the
effectiveness of the state’s or territory’s management efforts to facilitate the siting of aquaculture
facilities since the last assessment. If none, is there any information that you are lacking to assess
the effectiveness of the state’s or territory’s management efforts?
Identification of Priorities:
1. Considering changes in aquaculture activities, the management of these activities since the last
assessment, and stakeholder input, identify and briefly describe the top one to three management
priorities where there is the greatest opportunity for the CMP to improve the effectiveness of its
management effort to better respond to the most significant aquaculture challenges.
(Approximately 1-3 sentences per management priority.)
Management Priority 1: _________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 2: ________________________________________________
Description:
Management Priority 3: ________________________________________________
Description:
2. Identify and briefly explain priority needs and information gaps the CMP has to help it address the
management priorities identified above. The needs and gaps identified here do not need to be
limited to those items that will be addressed through a Section 309 strategy but should include any
items that will be part of a strategy.
Priority Needs

Need?
(Y or N)

Brief Explanation of Need/Gap

Research
Mapping/GIS
Data and information
management
Training/Capacity
building

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle
Decision-support tools
Communication and
outreach
Other (Specify)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Appendix C: Strategy Template

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

[Strategy Title]
I.

Issue Area(s)
The proposed strategy or implementation activities will support the following high-priority
enhancement areas (check all that apply):
Aquaculture
Cumulative and Secondary Impacts
Energy & Government Facility Siting
Wetlands
Coastal Hazards
Marine Debris
Ocean/Great Lakes Resources
Public Access
Special Area Management Planning

II.

Strategy Description
A. The proposed strategy will lead to, or implement, the following types of program changes (check all
that apply):
A change to coastal zone boundaries;
New or revised authorities, including statutes, regulations, enforceable policies,
administrative decisions, executive orders, and memoranda of agreement/understanding;
New or revised local coastal programs and implementing ordinances;
New or revised coastal land acquisition, management, and restoration programs;
New or revised special area management plans (SAMP) or plans for areas of
particular concern (APC) including enforceable policies and other necessary implementation
mechanisms or criteria and procedures for designating and managing APCs; and,
New or revised guidelines, procedures, and policy documents which are formally
adopted by a state or territory and provide specific interpretations of enforceable CZM program
policies to applicants, local government, and other agencies that will result in meaningful
improvements in coastal resource management.
B. Strategy Goal: _________________________________________________.
State the goal of the strategy for the five-year assessment period. The goal should be the specific
program change to be achieved or be a statement describing the results of the project with the
expectation that achieving the goal would eventually lead to a program change. For strategies that
implement an existing program change, the goal should be a specific implementation milestone.
For example, work with three communities to develop revised draft comprehensive plans that
consider future sea level rise or, based on research and policy analysis, present proposed legislation
on wetland buffers to state legislature or consideration. Rather than a lofty statement, the goal
should be achievable within the time frame of the strategy.
C. Describe the proposed strategy and how the strategy will lead to and/or implement the program
changes selected above. If the strategy will only involve implementation activities, briefly describe
the program change that has already been adopted, and how the proposed activities will further that
program change. (Note that implementation strategies are not to exceed two years.)

III.

Needs and Gaps Addressed
Identify what priority needs and gaps the strategy addresses and explain why the proposed
program change or implementation activities are the most appropriate means to address the
85

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

priority needs and gaps. This discussion should reference the key findings of the assessment and
explain how the strategy addresses those findings.
IV.

Benefits to Coastal Management
Discuss the anticipated effect of the strategy, including the scope and value of the strategy, in
advancing improvements in the CMP and coastal management, in general.

Likelihood of Success
Discuss the likelihood of attaining the strategy goal and program change (if not part of the strategy
goal) during the five-year assessment cycle or at a later date. Address the nature and degree of
support for pursuing the strategy and the proposed program change and the specific actions the
state or territory will undertake to maintain or build future support for achieving and implementing
the program change, including education and outreach activities.

VI.

Strategy Work Plan
Using the template below, provide a general work plan that includes the major steps that will lead
toward or achieve a program change or implement a previously achieved program change. If the
state intends to fund implementation activities for the proposed program change, describe those in
the plan as well. The plan should identify a schedule for completing the strategy and include major
projected milestones (key products, deliverables, activities, and decisions) and budget estimates. If
an activity will span two or more years, it can be combined into one entry (i.e., Years 2-3 rather than
Year 2 and then Year 3). While the annual milestones are a useful guide to ensure the strategy
remains on track, OCRM recognizes that they may change somewhat over the course of the five-year
strategy unforeseen circumstances. The same holds true for the annual budget estimates. Further
detailing and adjustment of annual activities, milestones, and budgets will be determined through
the annual cooperative agreement negotiation process.
Strategy Goal:
Total Years:
Total Budget:
Year(s):
Description of activities:
Major Milestone(s):
Budget:
Year(s):
Description of activities:
Major Milestone(s):
Budget:
Continue to repeat the above template as needed.

VII. Fiscal and Technical Needs
A. Fiscal Needs: If 309 funding is not sufficient to carry out the proposed strategy, identify additional
funding needs. Provide a brief description of what efforts the CMP has made, if any, to secure
additional state funds from the legislature and/or from other sources to support this strategy.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

B. Technical Needs: If the state does not possess the technical knowledge, skills, or equipment to carry
out all or part of the proposed strategy, identify these needs. Provide a brief description of what
efforts the CMP has made, if any, to obtain the trained personnel or equipment needed (for
example, through agreements with other state agencies).
VIII.

Projects of Special Merit (Optional)
If desired, briefly state what projects of special merit the CMP may wish to pursue to augment this
strategy. Any activities that are necessary to achieve the program change or that the state intends
to support with baseline funding should be included in the strategy above. The information in this
section will not be used to evaluate or rank projects of special merit and is simply meant to give
CMPs the option to provide additional information if they choose. Project descriptions should be
kept very brief (e.g., undertake benthic mapping to provide additional data for ocean management
planning). Do not provide detailed project descriptions that would be needed for the funding
competition.

5-Year Budget Summary by Strategy
At the end of the strategy section, please include the following budget table summarizing your
anticipated Section 309 expenses by strategy for each year.
Strategy Title

Year 1
Funding

Year 2
Funding

Year 3
Funding

Total Funding

Year 4
Funding

Year 5
Funding

Total
Funding

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Appendix D: Types of Program Changes
Examples of some types of program changes that would be appropriate to aim for as the ultimate goal
of a Section 309 strategy are provided below. This is not an exhaustive list. There are likely many
suitable program changes not listed here, but hopefully the examples provided here spark ideas.

Wetlands
Legislative Objective: Protection, restoration, or enhancement of existing coastal wetlands base
or creation of new coastal wetlands.§309(a)(1)
Programmatic Objectives:
1. Develop or improve regulatory programs to protect and preserve existing wetland acreage and
function from direct, indirect, and cumulative adverse impacts.
Examples include:
• Develop or enhance sequenced mitigation decision-making policies which strive to first avoid
wetland impacts, then minimize those impacts, and finally, properly mitigate any impacts that
cannot be avoided or minimized.
• Incorporate a practical alternatives analysis or cumulative and secondary impacts analysis into
the regulatory review process for projects impacting wetlands.
• Develop or enhance a comprehensive wetland mitigation policy and program.
• Develop or enhance enforcement, surveillance, or monitoring programs for wetland permits
to measure gains and losses of wetlands acreage and function.
• Develop or enhance policies that require siting development away from wetlands or other
critical areas where development is likely to lead to indirect impacts to wetlands (e.g., creating
of vegetated buffer or setback policies).
• Develop or enhance a memorandum of understanding or other formal agreement between
other state agencies, federal or local governments to create a more streamlined and
coordinated wetland permit application and review process.
2. Develop or improve programs and policies to protect and restore wetland function.
Examples include:
• Develop or enhance public wetland restoration programs to restore degraded wetlands and
areas that were previously wetlands. Programs could include the following elements:
o Identify degraded wetlands sites,
o Establish and implement best practices for wetland restoration and technical
assistance programs,
o Identify sites were restoration has the greatest likelihood of success considering
climate change and other factors,
o Identify permanent funding sources to support restoration activities such as through a
state bond fund or public-private partnership, and
o Establish programs to monitor restoration sites.
• Establish fee simple or less than fee simple wetlands acquisition programs.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

•
•

Develop or update wetland restoration or acquisition plans that are formally adopted by the
state to identify priority sites for wetland restoration or acquisition.
Develop or enhance policies to:
o Promote wetlands restoration and acquisition in areas that are likely to achieve the
greatest nonpoint source pollution reduction benefits,
o Promote wetlands restoration and acquisition in areas that are likely to provide
greatest climate change adaptation benefits (e.g., where wetlands have room to
migrate inland as sea levels rise or provide greatest protection from storm surge and
flooding),
o Provide incentives to landowners to sell or donate wetlands to states or local
government (e.g., conservation easement tax-incentive programs), or
o Provide disincentives to development in or near wetlands through restricted capital
expenditures, taxes, etc.

Coastal Hazards
Legislative Objective: Preventing or significantly reducing threats to life and destruction of
property by eliminating development and redevelopment in high-hazard areas, managing
development in other hazard areas, and anticipating and managing the effects of potential sea
level rise and Great Lakes level rise [or change].§309(a)(2)
Programmatic Objectives:
1. Direct future public and private development and redevelopment away from hazardous areas,
including the high-hazard areas delineated as FEMA v-zones and areas vulnerable to inundation
from sea level rise.
Examples include:
• Develop or enhance policies that eliminate development and redevelopment in high-hazard
areas and restrict development in other hazardous areas, such as:
o Prohibit new development and redevelopment in high-hazard areas.
o Establish or update shoreline-setback lines based on annual erosion rates.
o Require that future sea level and other climate-related changes and impacts be
considered when siting structures and infrastructure. Restrict the use of public funds for
infrastructure or other projects that would allow or encourage development in
hazardous areas.
o Revise state or local building codes to require structures be designed to withstand
higher winds or more frequent/higher flooding (e.g., require freeboard, require V Zone
standards in Coastal A Zones).
• Develop or enhance programs that eliminate development and redevelopment in high-hazard
areas and restrict development in other hazardous areas, such as:
o Develop land acquisition programs to acquire high-risk parcels.
o Develop relocation assistance and buy-out programs.
o Develop transfer or purchase of development rights programs to promote lower
development densities in hazardous areas.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

2. Preserve and restore the protective functions of natural shoreline features such as beaches, dunes,
and wetlands.
Examples Include:
• Develop or enhance policies to minimize the degradation of protective functions of natural
shoreline features, such as:
o Restrict or prevent the use of hard erosion control structures, such as sea walls and
bulkheads that may impact natural shoreline features.
o Require building setbacks from beaches, dunes, wetlands, and other protective features.
•
•

Develop or enhance policies and permitting processes to facilitate the use of green
infrastructure, such as living shorelines, where appropriate, to provide protective functions
and other habitat values.
Develop or enhance programs or plans to preserve and restore the protective functions of
natural shorelines, such as:
o Enhance land acquisition or restoration programs to prioritize lands for acquisition or
restoration that would provide greatest hazards protection.
o Develop a statewide beach renourishment plan, including long-term funding
mechanisms and methods, to establish priority projects.
o Develop a statewide beach monitoring program and use data to identify and prioritize
beaches in need of erosion control efforts.

3. Prevent or minimize threats to existing populations, property, and infrastructure from both
episodic and chronic coastal hazards.
Examples Include:
• Develop or update hazard mitigation plans.
• Develop pre-disaster recovery plans to identify how to strategically rebuild after a storm.
• Develop climate change adaptation plans that include conducting vulnerability assessments
and identifying actions to minimize risks or incorporate adaptation into other plans, such as
hazard mitigation and natural resource protection plans.
• Revise land use plans and other management plans to consider climate change and sea and
lake-level change.
• Adopt managed retreat policies or plans.
• Develop a cost-share or low-interest loan program to help retrofit buildings to improve their
hazard resiliency.
• Establish a grants program to support local risk reduction efforts.
• Establish a technical assistance program to support local risk reduction efforts.

Public Access
Legislative Objective: Attaining increased opportunities for public access, taking into account current
and future public access needs to coastal areas of recreational, historical, aesthetic, ecological, or
cultural value. §306(a)(3)

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Programmatic Objectives:
1. Improve public access through regulatory, statutory, legal, and financial mechanisms.
Examples Include:
• Develop and revise state and local statutes and regulations to better provide public access,
including ensuring or enhancing public access through permit conditions.
• Support local governments in revising local zoning ordinances to provide for additional
public access.
• Develop legal strategies based on the public trust doctrine and other public interest
doctrines to protect and enhance opportunities for public access, such as establishing a
rights-of-way program to ensure established public rights-of-way are maintained and used
as public access sites.
• Create a long-term funding mechanism to support public access creation, improvement, and
maintenance projects, such as through a specialized license plate fee, special assessments,
bond initiatives, or other mechanisms.
• Develop or enhance programs to encourage landowners to dedicate property and
easements for public access.
2. Provide a strategic approach to providing adequate public access to coastal areas.
Examples Include:
• Integrate public access opportunities into land use plans and waterfront redevelopment
plans.
• Develop or enhance a coastal Public Access Management Plan which provides public access
to all users of coastal areas of recreational, historical, aesthetic, ecological, and cultural
value. The plan should have adequate implementation mechanisms and could include
sections that:
o Develop or update public access inventory, including maps of and guide to existing
and potential public access sites.
o Assess current and future demand for public access.
o Identify site selection and design criteria, management, and maintenance issues for
each type of public access.
o Incorporate pertinent sections of the State Comprehensive outdoor Recreation Plan
into the Coastal Public Access Management Plan.
o Update or designate public access sites as areas of particular concern, areas for
preservation or enhancement, or special management areas.
o Ensure that signage is provided for all public access sites.
o Ensure that all users of the coast, including handicapped individuals and all socioeconomic classes, are afforded the same public access opportunities.
o Increase community support and cooperation through public education and
involvement.
o Incorporate existing public access policies.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Marine Debris
Legislative Objective: Reduce marine debris entering the Nation’s coastal and ocean environment by
managing uses and activities that contribute to the entry of such debris. §309(a)4
Programmatic Objective:
1. Develop or revise programs, policies, and plans to reduce the amount of marine debris in the
coastal zone.
Examples Include:
• Develop or enhance state and local programs that require recycling and reduce littering and
wasteful packaging in the coastal zone.
• Establish state and local regulations consistent with the Marine Plastic Pollution Research
and Control Act of 1987 and develop enforcement strategies and programs.
• Incorporate marine debris concerns into harbor, port, marina, and coastal solid waste
management plans.

Cumulative and Secondary Impacts
Legislative Objective: Development and adoption of procedures to assess, consider, and control
cumulative and secondary impacts of coastal growth and development, including the collective effect
on various individual uses or activities on coastal resources, such as coastal wetlands and fishery
resources, coastal access, or other issues. §309(a)(5)
Programmatic Objectives:
1. Develop or revise procedures and policies to minimize cumulative and secondary impacts of
coastal growth and development.
Examples Include:
• Establish or improve coastal planning processes to address the cumulative and secondary
impacts of future growth, for example, by identifying areas of rapid growth which contain
sensitive coastal resources or implement coastal uses, assessing anticipated cumulative and
secondary impacts, and establishing appropriate land use controls and mitigation measures
to protect valuable coastal resources and uses.
• Establish or improve procedures for the consideration of cumulative and secondary effects
in project and permit review decisions and infrastructure and land acquisition programs.
• Develop defensible methodologies to assess cumulative and secondary impacts, such as
visual impact assessments, to use in planning and permitting decisions.
• Establish impervious surface or building density limits for sensitive areas.
• Develop management plans or special area management plans that take a comprehensive
look at cumulative and secondary impacts within a specific management area and identify
actions and policies to minimize impacts.
• Establish programs or policies to support implementation of the state’s Coastal Nonpoint
Program, such as regular inspection programs for existing onsite disposal systems.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Special Area Management Planning
Legislative Objective: Preparing and implementing special area management plans for important
coastal areas. §309(a)(6)
Programmatic Objective:
1. Develop or enhance special area management plans (SAMPs) for identified coastal areas subject
to use conflicts. The following criteria can be used to help identify where SAMPs may be
appropriate:
• The need for more geographically specific policies.
• The area includes significant coastal resources that are being severely affected by
cumulative or secondary impacts from coastal growth.
• There are multiple local, state, and federal authorities that necessitate effective
coordination and cooperation to compressively address coastal development and use issues
on an ecosystem basis.
• There is a history of long-standing disputes between local, state, or federal agencies over
certain coastal resources which have resulted in protracted negotiations over the
acceptability of proposed uses.
• There is strong commitment at all levels of government to enter into a collaborative
planning process to produce definitive regulatory products.
• A strong state or regional entity exists which is willing and able to sponsor the planning
program.
Examples Include:
• Develop a SAMP to establish policies to protect cultural, historic, and aesthetic resources
within a specific embayment, such as developing specific standards for residential docks and
other uses within the embayment and riparian buffer requirements.
• Develop a SAMP to revitalize an urban waterfront area.
• Develop a SAMP to comprehensively protect habitat and water quality while promoting
sustainable aquaculture and eco-tourism within a particular watershed.
• Update an existing SAMP to address new or emerging issues within the SAMP management
area, such as sea level rise, invasive species, or increased development.

Ocean and Great Lakes Resources
Legislative Objective: Planning for the use of ocean resources. §309(a)(7)
Programmatic Objective:
1. Develop and enhance comprehensive or sector-specific ocean resource management plans,
policies, and programs, to balance development and protection of ocean resources, coordinate
existing authorities, and minimize use conflicts.
Examples Include:
• Develop or update comprehensive state or regional ocean management plans and policies.
• Develop invasive specifies management plans and policies.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

•
•

Develop new submerged lands leasing programs to assess a fee for the use of public lands
for private purposes.
Work with federal and state agencies to develop a dredge material disposal plan for the
state or a specific region.

Energy and Government Facility Siting
Legislative Objective: Adoption of procedures and enforceable policies to help facilitate the siting of
energy facilities and Government facilities and energy-related activities and government activities
which may be of greater than local significance. §309(a)(8)
Programmatic Objectives:
1. Develop and improve procedures, policies, and standards to facilitate the siting of energy and
Government facilities and related activities.
Examples Include:
• Develop MOUs or MOAs to coordinate and streamline regulatory review programs and
procedures for energy or Government facility siting and related activities across different
levels of government and government agencies.
• Coordinate with federal agencies to use administrative efficiencies in NOAA’s federal
consistency regulations to facilitate and streamline federal consistency reviews. These
administrative efficiencies could include:
o Creating thresholds for when a federal action would be subject to state CZMA
review;
o Using a “general consistency determination” that would cover multiple occurrences
of a federal action, or
o Eliminating certain federal actions from consistency reviews (beneficial coastal
effects, de minimis coastal effects).
• Develop or revise effects-based enforceable policies that address new information on the
effects from new or emerging energy technologies.
• Update federal consistency lists to refine which federal actions the coastal management
program would like to review or develop a geographic location description for specific
federal actions occurring outside of the state’s coastal zone, including interstate areas.
2. Develop or enhance long-term planning processes or programs to consider the needs of energy
and Government facilities and activities of greater-than-local significance.
Examples Include:
• Develop new or revised existing land use or ocean plans to include policies and standards to
facilitate the siting of energy and Government facilities while protecting coastal resources
and other coastal uses.
• Develop long-term monitoring programs, including the creation of a finance mechanism, to
assess long-term impacts of energy facility siting or Government uses in the coastal zone to
inform future planning and policy decisions.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Aquaculture
Legislative Objective: Adoption of procedures and policies to evaluate and facilitate the siting of
public and private aquaculture facilities in the coastal zone, which will enable States to formulate,
administer, and implement strategic plans for marine aquaculture. §309(a)(9)
Programmatic Objective:
1. Develop and improve procedures, policies, and standards for aquaculture in the coastal zone.
Examples include:
• Create new policies and standards for the siting and design of aquaculture facilities, such
as co-locating aquaculture with other coastal uses, such as offshore energy facilities.
• Revise the aquaculture permitting review process to streamline and improve coordination
among federal, local, and state authorities.
2. Develop or enhance planning processes to promote aquaculture and balance aquaculture
activities with other uses.
Examples include:
• Update land use, ocean management, or other plans, as appropriate, to identify priority
areas for aquaculture activities.
• Assess the vulnerability of shellfish aquaculture to the impacts of climate change, such as
ocean acidification, and develop a strategic approach and recommendations to improve
the resiliency of the industry.

CZMA Section 309 Program Guidance:
2016 to 2020 Cycle

Appendix E: Example Program Changes
Introduction
This appendix contains examples of program changes from previous Section 309 assessment cycles. The
examples demonstrate eligible activities coming together into comprehensive strategies that are
designed to lead to program changes or implement already-achieved program changes. The example
program changes listed here do not include complete strategies or work plans. Please refer to the
Section 309 program guidance and Appendix B for detailed guidance on development, organization, and
format of the strategy.

Status and Trends of Inland Wetlands and Aquatic Habitats
Program Change Categories:
• New or revised coastal land acquisition, management, and restoration programs; and
• New or revised guidelines, procedures, and policy documents which are formally adopted by a
state or territory and provide specific interpretations of enforceable coastal management
program policies to applicants, local government, and other agencies that will result in
meaningful improvements in coastal resource management.
This project builds upon an ongoing, coast-wide effort to study the status and trends of wetlands and
aquatic habitats on barrier islands by extending that effort to inland environments on the Texas coast.
Inland wetland status and trends data are of particular importance since palustrine or freshwater
wetlands are no longer protected by regulations under the CWA. The loss of regulatory protection for
these wetlands highlights the need to provide up-to-date information to local, state, and federal
restoration and acquisition programs to ensure adequate protection for the resource. This project will
provide regional characterizations for inland wetlands that will inform individual program priorities
and/or strategies for restoration and acquisition.
Data from this strategy will be used to:
• Update the following required elements of the Texas CELCP plan: a map or description of the
geographic extent of coastal and estuarine areas within the state; identification of “project areas”
that represent the state’s priority areas for conservation; and a description of existing plans, or
elements thereof, that are incorporated into the plan;
• Assess the relative merit of these types of projects nominated for The Coastal Impacts Assistance
Program (CIAP) funding over the course of its implementation;
• Prioritize CMP grant program projects proposed in areas of identified need or as specific requests
for proposals;
• Update to the Texas Coastwide Erosion Response and Assessment (CEPRA) Program Plan and
other state acquisition and restoration programs;
• Update the Resource Management Codes (RMC) for state-owned tracts in bays and estuaries.
RMC are assigned by state and federal resource agencies (including the GLO for seismic activities)
and represent regulatory guidelines;

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•

Inform other state agencies with wetland regulatory management programs for potential use,
such as a wetland monitoring strategy to inventory surface water quality, the Permit Assistance
Group mitigation guidelines; and
Promote an understanding of the results to city and county officials, relevant state and federal
agencies, NGOs, non-profit organizations, universities and other public and private interests.

Coastal managers often lack accurate, up-to-date data from which to base their decisions. This project
will not only provide an update of the current status of inland wetlands but will also forecast future
changes. It is anticipated that this information will identify those inland wetlands and other aquatic
habitats most threatened by erosion, subsidence, development and other processes and will facilitate
the adoption of proactive measures, either regulatory or non-regulatory in nature, by state and local
authorities and coastal programs to protect, restore and maintain those resources.
Activities:
The following outlines the general tasks for data collection and analysis at each proposed study area.
One study area will be undertaken each year in the following order: year 1, Corpus Christi-Coastal Bend;
year 2, Beaumont-Port Arthur; year 3, Matagorda Bay; year 4, Brownsville-Harlingen; and year 5,
Freeport-San Antonio Bay.
1. Interpret and map wetlands and aquatic habitats on historical and recent aerial photographs,
using and revising existing historical data where acceptable;
2. Process habitat delineations and enter into GIS;
3. Field-check mapped wetlands;
4. Conduct detailed quality control analysis of all (historical and current) GIS databases;
5. Analyze wetland trends, determine probable causes, and present write up results; and
6. Complete final manuscript and update the follow programs through guidance the implementation
policies:
• Texas Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Plan
• Coastal Impacts Assistance Program Guidance
• Texas Coastal Management Program Grant Program Guidance
• Coastwide Erosion Response and Assessment Program Plan
• Coastal Bends and Bay Estuary Program
• Texas Resource Management Codes and Guidelines
• Interagency Permit Assistance Group
• Sea Grant Extension Program
• Council of Applied Coastal Research Community
• Workshops to city and county officials

Adoption of Refined Coastal Goals
Type of Program Change:
• New or revised authorities, including statutes, regulations, enforceable policies, administrative
decisions, executive orders, and memoranda of agreement or understanding.
New Jersey’s federally approved Coastal Management Program and the Coastal Zone Management rules
at N.J.A.C. 7:7E were founded on broad coastal goals. These goals, referred to in the current rules as the

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“eight basic coastal policies,” have essentially remained unchanged since the Coastal Zone Management
rules were promulgated in 1978.
Based on substantial evidence, there is acute national concern that the health of our oceans is seriously
compromised as a result of nonpoint and point source pollution, climate change, overfishing and coastal
development. Two national Commissions, the Pew Oceans Commission and the U.S. Commission on
Ocean Policy issued similar conclusions in 2003 and 2004 respectively, that our oceans and coastal areas
are in crisis and that a national ocean policy is needed. As a result of both the Commissions’ conclusions
and the Department’s 26 years of experience implementing the existing coastal goals through the
Coastal Management Program and Coastal Zone Management rules, NJCMP concluded that revision of
the eight original coastal policies is warranted. A draft of the refined goals that accurately reflects
current conditions and trends relevant to comprehensive coastal management in New Jersey is
complete. Shortly, NJDEP plans to propose the refined coastal goals as regulations and adopt the
regulations as enforceable policies soon thereafter.
Activities:
• Update and modify the eight basic NJCMP policies as coastal goals with operational policies clearly
articulated.
• Propose as regulations.
• Adopt regulations as enforceable policies of the NJCMP.
• Submit refined NJCMP Goals to NOAA as a Program Change.

Significant Coastal Fish and Wildlife Habitats
Type of Program Change:
• New or revised authorities, including statutes, regulations, enforceable policies,
administrative decisions, executive orders, and memoranda of agreement/understanding;
Strengthen the State’s enforceable policy regarding designated Significant Coastal Fish and Wildlife
Habitats by completing updates for the south shore of Long Island and Hudson River region, and
initiating the updates for the Great Lakes region and the Long Island Sound portion of Westchester
County. These Significant Coastal Fish and Wildlife Habitats were originally designated in 1987. The
enforceable policy states that Significant Coastal Fish and Wildlife Habitats will be protected, preserved,
and where practical, restored so as to maintain their viability as habitats.
Significant Coastal Fish and Wildlife Habitat narratives and boundaries are used by the Coastal
Management Program as well as by Department of Environmental Conservation permit reviewers,
municipal governments, consultants, educators, and others. Updating the Significant Coastal Fish and
Wildlife Habitat documentation and boundaries for the south shore of Long Island, Hudson River, Great
Lakes and Westchester County contributes to wetlands management by ensuring that up-to-date data
and impact assessments are used in making management decisions, improving New York’s ability to
protect listed species, rare communities, and important human uses associated with the state’s wetland
resources.
Activities:
• Coordinate with Department of Environmental Conservation staff to compile existing biological
survey data and review habitat. Revise narratives and boundaries for habitats to include updated
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and new biological information and impact assessments. As part of this process, consider the need
to designate new and repeal existing habitats.
Revise boundary information in the Division GIS system and produce updated habitat maps.
Conduct public information hearings and public meetings.
Submit Routine Program Change.

Beneficial Use of Dredge Material Contribution Fund
Type of Program Change:
• New or revised authorities, including statutes, regulations, enforceable policies, administrative
decisions, executive orders, and memoranda of agreement or understanding.
According to La. Rev. Stat. 43:214.30, whenever a proposed use or activity requires a CUP for the
dredging or disposal of from 25,000 to 500,000 cubic yards of any water bottoms or wetland within the
LCZ, the secretary of LDNR may require the beneficial use of the dredge material. Beneficial use of
dredge material is required in circumstances where it is deemed economically feasible, but is not
required in those cases when it is not economically feasible.
Over the years, many CUPs were issued which did not require that dredged material excavated as a
result of the permitted activities be used beneficially. As a result, in order for the state to fulfill its
obligation under the public policy provisions of SLCRMA LDNR/CMD is proposing to investigate the cost
effectiveness of beneficial placement of dredged material in those cases deemed economically
infeasible. The ultimate outcome for those cases where it is not economically feasible to dispose of the
dredge material beneficially in the LCZ, is for the CUP applicant to pay into a dedicated fund based on a
fair cost. The fund will be used by the State for beneficial use projects (e.g., wetland and habitat
restoration) such as the Dedicated Dredge Program.
Based on the results of the study, the LDNR/CMD will propose new legislation/rule making requiring
applicants (possibly both state and federal) to pay a fee to the Beneficial Use of Dredge Material
Mitigation Account in those cases when it is determined not to be cost effective to dispose of dredge
material beneficially. The CMD will build a GIS database which will allow for the tracking of contributions
made to the fund.
Activities:
• Work with CRD and CED staff to determine the cut-off for cost effectiveness of using dredge
materially beneficially. As much as possible LDNR/OCRM staff will use already existing information
such as Dedicated Dredge Program data. LDNR/CMD staff will determine a fee based on cost/cubic
yard of dredge material that will be required in those cases where the beneficial use of dredge
material is not cost effective.
• Establish a Division Policy requiring applicants to pay a fee to the Beneficial Use of Dredge
Material Mitigation Account in those cases when it is determined not to be cost effective to
dispose of dredge material beneficially.
• Build a GIS database which will allow for the tracking of contributions made to the fund.
• Propose new legislation/rule making requiring applicants to pay a fee to the Beneficial Use of
Dredged Material Mitigation Account.

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Model Post Disaster Redevelopment Plans
Program Change Categories:
• New or revised authorities, including statutes, regulations, enforceable policies, administrative
decisions, executive orders, and memoranda of agreement or understanding.
• New or revised local coastal programs and implementing ordinances.
FDCA-DEM proposes to facilitate the development of post-disaster redevelopment plans (PDRP)
statewide. Model plans will be produced as examples for all coastal communities and a “Best Practices
Guide” will be revised to help with PDRP development. FDCA-DEM will also propose legislation to
require communities to develop a PDRP as part of the local government comprehensive plan.
Post-disaster redevelopment planning would improve the state’s ability to recover from disasters and
guide redevelopment in an appropriate manner. All Florida communities must adopt, regularly evaluate
and update their comprehensive growth management plans. The plans prepared by the 197
communities that abut the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico must also include a separate coastal
management element. While PDRPs are a recommended component of the coastal management
element, few local governments have adopted them. In addition, all Florida communities would benefit
from a PDRP, not just the coastal communities. While the required comprehensive plans and coastal
management elements have all been adopted, information regarding the number of communities with
PDRPs is not available. The best information, a survey conducted as part of the 1995 Hurricane Opal
Case Study, indicates that 65 of the 113 communities that responded to the survey believed that they
were required to prepare a PDRP. Of those 65 communities, only 27 stated that they had actually
prepared the plan. An inspection of the 27 plan documents revealed that 13 of these plans included a
separate recovery plan that exceeded the policies that should be included in the coastal management
element of the comprehensive plan. Anecdotal information suggests that the situation has not improved
since 1995.
Activities:
• Identify communities with current PDRPs and evaluate their effectiveness.
• Complete model PDRPs for four communities.
• Revise Best Practices Guide to aid in the development of PDRPs.
• Propose legislation requiring local governments to adopt PDRPs as part of their local government
comprehensive plan.

Metro Bay SAMP Urban Coastal Greenway
Program Change Categories:
• New or revised coastal land acquisition, management, and restoration programs; and
• New or revised special area management plans (SAMP) or plans for areas of particular concern
(APC) including enforceable policies and other necessary implementation mechanisms or criteria
and procedures for designating and managing APCs.
The purpose of this program change is to establish a new Urban Coastal Greenway Policy for the Metro
Bay Special Are Management Plan (SAMP). This policy will allow for coastal redevelopment within the
Metro Bay Special Area Management Plan (SAMP) region, while also increasing public access to the

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coast, improving water quality via on-site vegetative stormwater treatment, and preserving and
restoring the aesthetic value, including natural habitats, of Rhode Island’s urban shoreline.
As part of this program change, CRMC staff will also work with the state legislature to establish an Urban
Coastal Greenways Program fund for the Metro Bay Region (currently purposed in Rhode Island senate
bill.) Funds collected under the Urban Coastal Greenways Program would be placed into a trust to be
used for coastal habitat restoration and/or habitat conservation of a designated high priority restoration
or conservation area within the Metro Bay Region.
The state’s existing buffer rules are not designed for the specific challenges of urban environments,
specifically in the Metro Narragansett Bay Region (Cranston, East Providence, Pawtucket, and
Providence). These original buffer regulations were not designed to accommodate the large-scale,
coastal redevelopment that is currently being proposed for the Metro Bay Region. Specifically, the
current coastal buffer regulations require that buffer zones be undisturbed and allowed to grow
naturally in order to gain the maximum wildlife habitat and water quality benefits possible. While it is
still desirable to achieve the maximum habitat and water quality benefits possible within urban areas,
the design of vegetative buffers must also acknowledge and cultivate the need for increased public
access to the shoreline. In addition, urban buffers require thoughtful design and maintenance if they are
to achieve water quality goals in areas dominated by impervious cover.
Activities:
• Complete development of an urban coastal greenway policy; implement the policy; go out to
public notice with new policy.
• Develop changes to policy, as needed based on assessments and public comments; undertake
rule-making process to incorporate revisions; adopt revised Urban Coastal Green Policy as part of
the Metro Bay SAMP.
• Work with Legislature to create an Urban Coastal Greenway fund.

Guidance Document on Coordinated Aquaculture Permitting
Program Change Categories:
• New or revised authorities, including statutes, regulations, enforceable policies, administrative
decisions, executive orders, and memoranda of agreement/understanding; and
• New or revised guidelines, procedures and policy documents which are formally adopted by a
state or territory and provide specific interpretations of enforceable coastal management program
policies to applicants, local government and other agencies that will result in meaningful
improvements in coastal resource management.
OLISP intends to develop a guidance document for aquaculture permitting with associated instruction
forms and FAQ documents as needed. OLISP will formally propose this guidance document as
regulations under CGS §22a-361(c), or as a formal amendment to the Department’s published coastal
permit application documents.
While OLISP no longer has direct regulatory jurisdiction over many aquaculture activities, efforts at
clarifying the several inconsistent and confusing statutes governing aquaculture regulation have been
unsuccessful to date. Since the law was first changed in 1999, OLISP has received many applications for
aquaculture operations, both large and small, making it a higher priority to develop a means through
which to explain the current legal framework as it relates to aquaculture and to clarify the permitting

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requirements to the regulated community. A guidance document will be necessary to explain the laws
and to specify what regulatory procedures apply in what circumstances.
The reissuance of the Corps’ PGP allows many aquaculture applicants to obtain an expedited review
from the Corps. However, the agencies will need to provide additional guidance to highlight which
regulated actives are still subject to the OLISP permitting process (i.e., those activities which do not
meet the exemption). The proposed regulations will assist both potential applicants and staff of the
various agencies by clarifying the jurisdictional and regulatory requirements for specific types of
aquaculture proposals. In addition, the regulations are expected to include siting and design suggestions
so as to render aquaculture applications consistent with the relevant enforceable policies of the
Connecticut Coastal Management Program. Developing this guidance document will also improve
effective interagency coordination in regulating aquaculture projects in the state.
Activities:
• Participate interagency workgroup meetings to review current aquaculture policies and
application process; develop draft guidance.
• Participate in additional interagency workgroup meetings to finalize Aquaculture Permitting
Guidance.
• Formally adopt the guidance either through regulation or amendment to Department’s coastal
permit application documents.

Implementing Legislative Changes to the Shoreline Master Program Guidelines
Program Change Categories:
• New or revised authorities, including statutes, regulations, enforceable policies, administrative
decisions, executive orders, and memoranda of agreement or understanding; and
• New or revised local coastal programs and implementing ordinances.
The purpose of this strategy is to provide policy and technical assistance to local governments, engaged
in development of updated Shoreline Master Programs (SMPs). The new Shoreline Master Program
Guidelines rule, direct the update of every SMP in the coastal zone over the next decade. Although the
new Guidelines rule is now in effect, significant technical and policy issues must still be addressed in
order for local governments to properly implement the Guidelines and address the cumulative impacts
of anticipated growth. With the on-going presence of endangered species as an issue, technical
considerations are even greater than previously expected.
Continuing development of a wide variety of guidance and technical assistance materials will be
essential. An on-going program for disseminating such information through outreach and training of
local government shoreline planners and others will also be critical to success. Each local government
must consider the options and tradeoffs inherent in the program. The Guidelines require local
government to inventory the resources and characteristics of their shorelines and address the direct and
cumulative impacts of development on the shorelines in a manner that preserves and restores the
natural character of the shoreline. For this strategy, approximately 30 local governments will develop
and adopt updated local SMPs. The Department of Ecology will review and approve all SMPs. These
SMPs, once approved by the federal Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management (OCRM), will
become an approved part of Washington’s Coastal Management Program. Full implementation in the
coastal counties will not occur under the legislatively mandated schedule until 2014.

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Activities:
• Prepare policy and technical guidance, presentations, and related materials that send a consistent
message and establish the foundation for building capacity at all levels.
• Develop “good examples” that we can reference and others may replicate.
• Provide training and outreach to other related interest groups (i.e. realtors, shoreline property
owners, general citizenry, other state resource agencies, etc.).
• In the near term, prepare outcome-based, general guidance describing new Guidelines
requirements, suggested methods, and steps in developing Guidelines compliant SMPs.
• Use Ecology’s web-based guidance as the method for organizing existing and future training
materials. The web site will contain a different page for each major step in SMP development: a
general description of the topic and what is required; links to statutory and Guidelines rule
language; available state level information; and links to good local SMP examples where they
exist.
• Host local government coordination meetings on at least a quarterly basis with the dual purpose
of:
o Providing Ecology with a consistent and predictable conduit for presenting the latest
information to local grant recipients, and
o Providing local government planners with a regular Guidelines-specific venue for person-toperson networking as new SMP updates are being developed.
• Organize guidance and outreach using a web-based approach with direct links to available
websites addressing:
o The latest scientific and technical information
o Contact information for others doing SMP updates
o Funding opportunities
o Training opportunities

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Appendix F: Example Stakeholder Questions
Q1. Which of the nine enhancement areas do you feel are the highest priority for the state’s coastal
management program? (Rank your top three in order of priority.) Briefly explain why.
Q2. What do you feel are the greatest problems regarding those priority enhancement areas?
 Enhancement Area A:
 Enhancement Area B:
 Enhancement Area C:
Q3. What are the greatest opportunities for enhancing the state’s coastal management program to
more effectively address those problems?
 Enhancement Area A:
 Enhancement Area B:
 Enhancement Area C:

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File Type	application/pdf
File Title	Overview
Author	Laurie.Rounds
File Modified	2014-06-19
File Created	2014-06-19