Member Resources

Where We Stand
Natural Resources:
Coastal zone management

League support for and action to implement coastal zone management comes from the LWVUS land use position. The League worked for passage of the federal Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) in 1972 and for amendments in 1976. The CZMA sets up a federally funded, voluntary state program to encourage wise development of the nation's coasts.

The Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management Plan (MCZMP) consists of 27 policies which form the only formal written statement of environmental policy for the state. The League was involved in the development of the plan from 1974 through 1976 and has continued to monitor its implementation.

As long as Massachusetts has a coastal zone management plan approved by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, all federal actions directly affecting the coast must be consistent with that plan. The federal consistency section has provided the state with the opportunity to consult with federal agencies early in the decision-making process to be sure the concerns of the state and its citizens are recognized. The League will continue its work for this aspect of state's rights.

The MCZMP has been unique in using federal and state money to help local communities develop activities and programs that implement the state policies. As federal funds lessened, the League sought legislation to establish an office of coastal zone management in the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs, funded by the state through the budget process. Comprehensive coastal protection legislation was passed in 1983 after three years of League work.

Adequate funding for the Massachusetts office of coastal zone management continues to be a concern. Alternate sources of federal funds have been proposed, among which are funds from the revenue generated by the leasing of outer continental shelf lands for oil and gas exploration and development.

COASTWEEKS
A national observance of coastal issues, originally held during the second week in October, COASTWEEKS had its beginnings in Massachusetts. Developed, promoted and administered by LWVM, it has become an annual month-long celebration. LWVM has been the coordinating point as local Leagues and other organizations plan activities suitable to their communities.

Coastwatch, 1990
From 1982 to 1990, the League's natural resources committee established the Coastwatcher network to encourage wise public action regarding coastlines. League Coastwatchers supported passage of the 1983 Coastal Barriers Resources Act and monitored its application.

The network of Coastwatchers expanded to include local and state coastal Leagues in other parts of the country. They generated public support for national legislation that prohibits disposal of plastics in the ocean, reauthorization of the National Sea Grant College program and a national housing bill insurance alternative for homeowners threatened by coastal erosion. Coastwatchers also worked for the continuing moratorium on outer continental shelf drilling on the Massachusetts and California coasts. In 1990, the League supported designation of Stellwagen Bank as a National Marine Sanctuary, which would further protect that area.

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