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CZ-Mail - February 2024

The monthly electronic newsletter from the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM).

Welcome to CZ-Mail, the monthly electronic newsletter from the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM). Each issue provides information on major CZM initiatives, available tools and publications, upcoming workshops and events, grants, contracting opportunities, job openings, and other news of interest to people working on coastal issues. Additional information about CZM's programs, publications, and other coastal topics can be found on the CZM website. To subscribe, send a blank email (please be sure that the email is completely blank, with no signature line) to join-env-czmail@listserv.state.ma.us. Also, please feel free to share CZ-Mail with colleagues and friends—and if you have any suggestions for future editions, or would like make a change to your CZ-Mail subscription, email your request to CZ-Mail@mass.gov. For periodic updates from CZM between CZ-Mail editions, follow us on Twitter.

All links on this web page were current and working on the date of publication.

Highlights

CZM Director, Lisa Berry Engler, Moves to the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center - In January, CZM Director Lisa Berry Engler left CZM to become the Deputy Managing Director for Offshore Wind at the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC). Lisa has been with CZM for nearly 9 years, starting in March 2015 as the Boston Harbor Regional Coordinator. Prior to CZM, Lisa held positions at the Massachusetts Bays National Estuary Partnership—including a period as Acting Director and as the MetroBoston/Outreach Coordinator—and worked within the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) Program and the Department of Transportation Environmental Services Division. In November 2017, Lisa was named CZM Assistant Director and focused on policy development, regional planning efforts, and technical approaches for the agency. Then in November 2018, Lisa stepped in as Acting Director with the departure of then Director Bruce Carlisle and was named CZM Director soon after in March 2019. During her tenure, CZM has played a leading role in coastal resilience, water quality and habitat protection and research, and ocean management. Specifically, CZM distributed $19 million in Coastal Resilience Grants and $1.5 million in Coastal Pollutant Remediation Grants and launched the new Coastal Habitat and Water Quality Grants program, distributing another $4 million in funding to coastal communities. CZM also completed the update of the Massachusetts Ocean Management Plan in 2021, proactively supported offshore wind planning in the Gulf of Maine and review of offshore wind projects south of the islands, securing more than $26 million in compensatory mitigation for the Commonwealth’s commercial and recreational fishing industries, and launched the new ResilientCoasts initiative to develop a holistic strategy for addressing climate change impacts. In addition, CZM was instrumental in securing nearly $4 million in federal funds in 2023 to restore coastal habitat and improve resilience to climate change by advancing state Priority Ecological Restoration Projects in Manchester and Truro. Lisa successfully maintained CZM focus and momentum through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, an office move, and the new hybrid work transition. We will surely miss her enthusiasm for our work and encouragement to take on new challenges, along with her poise under pressure. Congratulations and good luck at MassCEC, Lisa!

Tyler Soleau to Serve as Acting CZM Director - With Lisa Berry Engler’s departure, CZM Assistant Director Tyler Soleau will assume Acting Director responsibilities. Tyler has served as CZM Assistant Director since September 2019, with a primary focus on leading the team of CZM Regional Coordinators and directing environmental justice initiatives for the agency. Prior to joining CZM, Tyler served for four years with the Massachusetts House Committee on Climate Change as counsel, staff director, and legislative director. Tyler was the Outreach Director at Acadia Center focused on stakeholder engagement, outreach, education, and coalition building. Tyler also worked for Sungage Financial, where he managed and led a team of 15 project managers. He has a bachelor’s degree from Hamilton College and received his law degree from the Vermont Law School.

Storm Team Activated for January Storms - CZM activated the Coastal Storm Damage Assessment Team (Storm Team) to document coastal impacts for storms on January 10 and 13. The Storm Team is a network of 58 state, federal, and local agency personnel led by CZM that covers the Massachusetts coast during and after storms to collect and relay information on storm damage. Specific documented impacts from these storms include:

  • January 10 - The CZM Storm Team members assessed sites in 26 communities on the North Shore, South Shore, Buzzards Bay, Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket and submitted more than 180 reports. These reports documented widespread flooding of low-lying coastal roads and beach parking areas, eroded and overwashed beaches and dunes, and overwashed seawalls and other shore protection structures. Ponded flooding was also documented in low-lying developed areas in Barnstable, Dennis, Edgartown, Falmouth, Hull, Marshfield, Nantucket, Newbury, Newburyport, Salisbury, Saugus, Wareham, and Westport. Damage to roads was found in Edgartown and Falmouth and damage to buildings documented in Edgartown, Falmouth, Salisbury, and Westport.
  • January 13 - The CZM Storm Team documented widespread beach, dune, and bank erosion, along with flooding of low-lying roads, parking areas, and neighborhoods in 39 communities along the Massachusetts coast, submitting 333 reports—including reports from 30 Storm Team members and 10 volunteers. Moderate coastal flooding was found to extend farther inland along the South Shore, Boston, and North Shore. Damage was also reported to docks and piers on Cape Cod and Nantucket, homes in Salisbury, and a seawall in Salem. In multiple locations, ponded water flow was documented around vehicles and buildings.

The Storm Team reports are made through the StormReporter at MyCoast.org/ma, which allows members and volunteers to record observations and upload pictures in near-real time during coastal storm events, enabling the rapid delivery, sharing, and archiving of coastal storm damage data. Photos of damage from these storms can be found on the MyCoast StormReporter page. For more information on the activities of the Storm Team, see the Press Release, along with links below for news coverage. (Articles may only be available for a limited time.)

Manchester-by-the-Sea Recognized for Sustainability and Climate Change Resilience - In November, the American Planning Association Massachusetts Chapter presented the Town of Manchester-by-the-Sea with its Sustainability & Resiliency Award. The town was recognized for outstanding planning in the areas of sustainability, resiliency, and climate change for the development of the plan, “A Long-Term Action Plan for Coastal Resiliency for Manchester-by-the-Sea’s Inner Harbor.” With CZM’s technical assistance and $175,000 from the Coastal Resilience Grant Program in 2022-2023, Manchester-by-the-Sea developed a conceptual action plan to reduce coastal flood risks and increase coastal resilience at the neighborhood scale in the Inner Harbor area, focusing on several critical assets including the town hall, wastewater treatment plant, and downtown commercial district. See the 2023 Planning Awards presentation (PDF, 6 MB) for more information.

Regional Wildlife Science Collaborative for Offshore Wind Releases Science Plan - On January 25, the Regional Wildlife Science Collaborative for Offshore Wind (RWSC) released Integrated Science Plan for Wildlife, Habitat, and Offshore Wind Energy in U.S. Atlantic Waters. This living document describes recommendations for data collection, research, and coordination of research and monitoring efforts connected to offshore wind development. The RWSC is composed of state and federal agencies, non-governmental organizations, and offshore wind developers that work together to support research that will advance responsible and efficient wind power development. CZM served on the RWSC steering committee and participates as a member of the state caucus. CZM also participates in several subcommittees that focus on specific taxa or other topics and has contributed to the implementation of the RWSC’s Science Plan, along with the Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF). The recommendations in the Science Plan will be used by the RWSC and its members to guide research priorities and facilitate regional-scale science by promoting consistency in methods and data formats across multiple offshore wind developers and projects. For more information, please see the RWSC website or attend a webinar on the Science Plan on February 9 from 1-2 p.m.

Identifying Shared Seafloor Mapping Priorities in the Northeast - In January, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office for Coastal Management published Northeast States Collaborate on Ocean Mapping Priorities, Garnering National Attention. This article describes how the Northeast Regional Data Prioritization Project, led by the Northeast Regional Ocean Council and including CZM, is transforming regional data prioritization and mapping approaches through effective collaboration. Selected groups from the states of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, and Rhode Island—along with the National Marine Sanctuaries, National Park Service, United States Geological Survey (USGS), and other federal agencies—received virtual tokens to vote for priority mapping areas. This democratic allocation system provides an effective means for prioritizing mapping efforts. CZM has also developed a viewer for participants to review the results of the project.

Healey-Driscoll Administration Releases EEA Inaugural Report - On January 23, the Healey-Driscoll Administration released the 2023 Inaugural Report from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), which highlights key agency milestones and accomplishments in Governor Maura Healey’s first year in office. The report showcases the outstanding work done by EEA organizations and partners, including CZM, to ensure that Massachusetts climate goals are achieved. In addition, the report features details on EEA officials’ visits across the state and actions to identify and address climate-related goals, including but not limited to decarbonization, climate resilience, natural resource stewardship, and environmental and energy justice. EEA’s operating budget has been elevated to 1 percent of the overall state budget, which represents a significant investment in the agencies tasked with combating climate change and protecting natural resources. Also, the report describes the creation of several new offices and positions within EEA and summarizes the impacts of EEA’s grant programs, which awarded $216 million to 1,813 grantees. Printed copies of the report are available upon request or it can be downloaded (PDF, 32 MB). See the press release for additional information.

Upcoming Coastal Resilience Grants - Pre-Application Support Available from CZM - CZM anticipates the release of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Request for Responses (RFR) for the Coastal Resilience Grant Program in the spring. Coastal Resilience Grants provide funding and technical assistance to coastal communities and eligible nonprofit organizations to reduce risks associated with coastal storms, flooding, erosion, and sea level rise through innovative and transferable local and regional projects. Up until the RFR is released, CZM can discuss project ideas and eligibility for the grants with potential applicants. See the contact information at the bottom of the Coastal Resilience Grant page to connect with CZM.

Thank You COASTSWEEP Volunteers! - Every fall, thousands of people in Massachusetts volunteer for COASTSWEEP—the statewide beach cleanup sponsored by CZM that is part of Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup. While the numbers are still coming in for COASTSWEEP 2023, preliminary reports show that more than 3,000 volunteers scoured approximately 300 miles of coastline to collect over 23 tons of trash since August. CZM plans to start signups for next year’s COASTSWEEP cleanups in June. If you are interested in receiving information about volunteering or coordinating a cleanup, please send your contact information to coastsweep@mass.gov. And thank you to all our volunteers throughout the years for your enthusiasm and commitment!

CZM Staff and People

Coastal Habitat and Water Quality Specialist - In February, CZM welcomed Kathleen Mason to the Coastal Habitat and Water Quality Team to support water quality aspects of the program in addition to the Coastal Habitat and Water Quality Grants. Kathleen is experienced in water quality management, stakeholder outreach, and communications. She has a Master of Environmental Management in Water Resource Management from the Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, and a B.S. in Environmental Science from Colby College. Welcome Kathleen!

Grants/Funding/Proposal Opportunities

Coastal Resilience Grants - CZM anticipates the release of the FY 2025 RFR for the Coastal Resilience Grant Program in the spring. Coastal Resilience Grants provide funding and technical assistance to coastal communities and eligible nonprofit organizations to reduce risks associated with coastal storms, flooding, erosion, and sea level rise through innovative and transferable local and regional projects. Up until the RFR is released, CZM can discuss project ideas and eligibility for the grants with potential applicants. See the contact information at the bottom of the Coastal Resilience Grant page to connect with CZM.

Drinking Water Supply Protection Grants - The EEA Division of Conservation Services (DCS) is seeking applications for the Drinking Water Supply Protection Grant Program, which provides financial assistance to public water systems and municipal water departments to purchase land or interests in land for the protection of existing Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP)-approved public drinking water supplies, planned future public drinking water supplies, or groundwater recharge. Grants of up to $350,000 are available this grant round. See the application instructions for details. Applications are due by March 8 at 3:00 p.m.

Landscape Partnership Grants - DCS is seeking Landscape Partnership Grant Program applications for conservation projects that protect 100-500 acres of land through partnerships between local, state, and federal agencies and nonprofit organizations. Grants up to $1,250,000 will be available this grant round. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to attend an information session in-person on February 26 at 1:00 p.m. at MassWildlife Field Headquarters in Westborough or virtually on Microsoft Teams on February 28 at 2:00 p.m. Advanced registration is required for both sessions. Please email Vanessa Farny at vanessa.farny@mass.gov to register. Applications are due by April 18 at 3:00 p.m.—see the application instructions for additional details.

Culvert Replacement Municipal Assistance Grants - The Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration (DER) will soon seek proposals from Massachusetts municipalities for the Culvert Replacement Municipal Assistance Grant Program to replace undersized, perched, and/or degraded culverts in areas with high ecological value with new structures that meet environmental design and structural standards along with flood resiliency criteria. Only projects that meet the goals of the Massachusetts Stream Crossing Standards (PDF, 2 MB) are eligible. The RFR is expected to be released in early February. Applicants are strongly encouraged to stay tuned to the DER website for recorded grant briefings and other technical resources on these grants.

Stormwater Centers of Excellence Grants - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking applications for the new Centers of Excellence for Stormwater Control Infrastructure Technologies Grant Program to establish Stormwater Centers that will conduct research to develop stormwater solutions. Up $3 million is available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support three to five awards to establish and maintain these regional centers. Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, research institutions, and nonprofit organizations. For additional information, see the EPA website. Applications are due by March 18.

Fisheries and Offshore Wind Interactions Funding - The Northeast Sea Grant Consortium, in partnership with NOAA’s Northeast Fisheries Science Center, is seeking proposals to fund research on fishing community interactions with offshore wind development in the Northeast United States. Approximately $1 million will be available for projects in three research areas: Offshore Wind Development Planning and Engagement, Understanding Fisheries and Offshore Wind Development Interactions, and Monitoring of Offshore Wind Development and Fisheries Interactions. Up to $400,000 is available per project, up to three years in duration, with a 25% non-federal match required. For more information, see the Northeast Sea Grant Consortium website. Letters of intent are due by February 15 at 5:00 p.m. and full proposals are due by April 1.

MassBays Tide Gate and Salt Marsh Assessment Consultant - The Massachusetts Bays National Estuary Partnership (MassBays) is seeking bids for technical consultant services to optimize local tide gate operations and management to improve salt marsh health. The consultant will be responsible for reviewing the existing tide gate inventory within the MassBays area, conducting field visits to assess salt marsh conditions and identify data gaps, working with the project team to identify priority implementation/restoration sites, and advancing priority projects. For details, including application instructions, see the MassBays website. For questions, please contact William Mannix at WMannix@umassp.edu. Proposals are due by February 9 at 5:00 p.m.

Nantucket Biodiversity Initiative Small Research Grants - The Nantucket Biodiversity Initiative is seeking proposals for the Small Research Grants Program, which funds research on understudied taxonomic groups and the overall biodiversity of Nantucket, Tuckernuck, and/or Muskeget Islands. Grants up to $3,500 will be awarded. Proposals are due by February 22.

Cigarette Litter Prevention Grants - Keep America Beautiful (KAB) is seeking applications for the 2024 Cigarette Litter Prevention Program Grants to fund cigarette litter reduction and recycling efforts through messaging, infrastructure placement, or a combination of both. The grants are available to KAB affiliates, nonprofits, local governments, and other community organizations. Applications are due by February 15.

Reminders - These opportunities, listed previously in CZ-Mail, are still open:

  • New England Bay Watershed Education and Training Grants - The National Marine Fisheries Service Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office is seeking proposals for the New England Bay Watershed Education and Training (New England B-WET) Program for K-12 experiential learning in New England states. Priorities for this opportunity are: 1) two-year projects that combine watershed education and teacher professional development, and 2) three-year projects that focus on build K-12 environmental literacy at the state and local level. For more information, including how to apply and details on upcoming informational webinars, see the New England B-WET web page. Applications due February 20.
  • Ocean Acidification Education Mini-Grants - The NOAA Ocean Acidification Program is seeking proposals to develop coastal and ocean acidification education tools and programs that address the goals of the NOAA Ocean Acidification Education Implementation Plan (PDF, 2 MB) and the 2021-2040 NOAA Education Strategic Plan (PDF, 2 MB). The principal objective of this grant program is to provide financial assistance to develop these education tools and programs in underserved and/or Indigenous communities or Tribes. For more information and application details, see the Notice of Funding Opportunity. Full proposals are due by February 23.

Online Tools and Resources

Cape Cod State of the Waters 2023 Report - The Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC) has released State of the Waters: Cape Cod 2023, an online report that provides a comprehensive look at the water quality of Cape Cod’s estuaries, ponds, and drinking water. The results indicate that the number of unacceptable embayments (90%) remained the same as 2022, with primary pollution sources being excess nutrients from wastewater treatment limitations and stormwater runoff and fertilizer use on the Cape.

NOAA Marine Debris Blog - Recent posts in the NOAA Marine Debris Program’s Marine Debris Blog feature the program’s accomplishments report for 2023, a new U.S. Marine Debris Emergency Response Guide, and the 2024 Marine Debris Calendar. All blog topics can be searched by category and date. To receive notifications of new posts, sign up for email updates.

New Resources and Data from NOAA Digital Coast - NOAA’s Digital Coast has posted these new resources:

Products/Publications

Marine Debris Emergency Response Guide - NOAA’s Marine Debris Program has released the United States Marine Debris Emergency Response Guide, which includes information to improve preparedness for responding to marine debris after hurricanes and other disasters in coastal areas of the United States, including the Great Lakes and territories.

State of the Beach Report - The Surfrider Foundation has released its 2023 State of the Beach Report that grades 30 U.S. coastal and Great Lake states and Puerto Rico on their policies and practices that protect coastal resources from coastal erosion, sea level rise, coastal development, and related issues.

National Rivers and Streams Assessment - EPA has released the third National Rivers and Streams Assessment (NRSA). The assessment presents the results of the 2018-2019 survey of perennial rivers and streams in the 48 contiguous United States, which provides details on the extent of stream miles that support healthy biological conditions and recreation. Results indicated that while more than half of U.S. river and stream miles included healthy habitat for fish and other species, only 28% had healthy biological communities (based on an analysis of benthic macroinvertebrate communities) and 35% had healthy fish communities. Phosphorus and nitrogen were the most widespread contaminants found. For additional details, see the survey data dashboard.

Newsletters and Other Periodicals

Coastal & Estuarine Science News - The final 2023 issue of Coastal & Estuarine Science News, the newsletter of the Coastal & Estuarine Research Foundation, includes articles on using geospatial data for marsh restoration, estuaries with low freshwater inflow, tidal flooding during sunny weather and its contribution to nonpoint source pollution in estuaries, and other coastal and estuarine research topics.

DMF News - The latest issue of DMF News, the twice-yearly newsletter of the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, features articles on striped bass management efforts, lobster regulation changes for 2025, population estimates for the endangered North Atlantic right whale, and other Massachusetts fisheries updates.

Ebb & Flow - The Winter 2023 issue of Ebb & Flow, the Division of Ecological Restoration eNewsletter, covers new DER staff, restructuring to form three DER branches (Capacity Building, Habitat Restoration, and Technical Services), and other restoration project updates and resource links.

Massachusetts Lobstermen’s News - The December 2023 Newspaper (PDF, 14 MB) from the Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association (MLA) covers the Annual Ropeless Consortium meeting and the discussion of the benefits and limitations of on-demand gear, a review of MLA’s 60th year, the upcoming 2024 American Lobster Initiative Summit, MLA updates, and other lobster news.

NOAA HabitatNews - The December 2023 issue of HabitatNews, a newsletter of the NOAA Fisheries Office of Habitat Conservation, includes items on grants for coral restoration projects, new funding awarded for reef restoration in Puerto Rico, $2.5 million in funding awarded for dam removals on the Ipswich and Parker Rivers in Massachusetts, and other marine fisheries habitat news.

Northeast Ocean Data Portal Newsletter - The December 2023 issue of Northeast Ocean Data, a newsletter of the Northeast Ocean Data Portal, provides details on efforts to support public comments for ocean planning in the Northeast, updates to the Gulf of Maine Seascapes maps, various data updates, and additional portal news.

The Sandbar - The October 2023 issue of The Sandbar, a quarterly publication from the National Sea Grant College Program on U.S. ocean and coastal legal issues, includes articles on shellfish permitting in Washington State, a court ruling approving a controversial oil drilling project in Alaska, summer flounder quotas in the state of New York, and other ocean- and coastal-related legal issues.

Urban Harbors Institute E-News - The December 2023 issue of Urban Harbors Institute E-News, the newsletter of the Urban Harbors Institute (UHI) at the University of Massachusetts (UMass) Boston, reports on efforts to advance climate adaptation in coastal cities and towns, work on harbor planning in Massachusetts, and other news and updates from UHI.

USGS Sound Waves - The November-December 2023 issue of Sound Waves, a U.S. Geological Survey newsletter, includes items on a new USGS tool that provides complex 3-D seafloor feature imagery, the use of seafloor mapping and machine learning to find historical ocean dump sites, a Mashpee Wampanoag summer science camp that combines traditional knowledge with Western science, and other coastal and marine research news.

Public Notice/Public Comment

Please note: All official CZM requests for public comment are published in the Public Notices section of the Environmental Monitor, the bi-weekly publication from the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) Office.

Proposed Wetlands and Waterways Regulations - MassDEP is seeking public comment on two sets of proposed regulations: the Wetlands Resilience 1.0 Draft Regulations, which establish procedures for conservation commissions and MassDEP to follow in issuing permits for work in areas protected under the Wetlands Protection Act, and the Waterways (Chapter 91) Resilience 1.0 Draft Regulations, which protect the public’s right to access the state’s tidelands and waterways and regulate the kinds of activities that can take place on coastal and inland waterways. Written comments on both proposed regulations are due by March 1 at 5:00 p.m.

Proposed 10th Edition of the State Building Code - The Board of Building Regulations and Standards (BBRS) has published the Draft 10th Edition of the Massachusetts State Building Code for public review and comment. In February, three public hearings will be held on the proposed code: Boston on February 14, virtual meeting on February 21, and Springfield on February 28. The draft includes standards for Coastal A Zones delineated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on Flood Insurance Rate Maps and increases in elevation requirements for new and substantially improved buildings in FEMA flood zones to reduce impacts from climate change, including sea level rise and increases in precipitation. The BBRS is accepting oral comments at the hearings and written comments received by March 6 at 5:00 p.m. Please see the Notices and Alerts at the top of the Board of Building Regulations and Standards website for the Notice of Hearings and related links, including a link to the draft code.

Jobs/Internship Postings

DER Positions - DER is seeking applications for three positions. The Ecological Restoration Grants Manager for the DER Culvert Replacement Municipal Assistance Grant Program will work with municipalities to implement improved road stream-crossings for fish and wildlife passage and climate and ecological resilience. The manager will work closely with the Stream Continuity Program to increase scale, pace, and capacity of culvert replacement projects in Massachusetts. The Ecological Restoration Engineer will work across DER restoration programs to build and support restoration engineering and project management approaches and to support and enhance the quality, efficiency, and technical precision of DER’s restoration work, including wetland restoration, river and stream continuity, dam removal, retired cranberry bog restoration, and regional restoration partnerships. The Ecological Restoration Planner will develop and employ restoration planning and GIS capabilities to support the work of DER’s programs and partners to oversee and support planning projects for the diverse range of DER restoration activities.

Emerging Contaminants Coordinator - MassDEP is seeking an Emerging Contaminants (EC) Coordinator within the Surface Water Quality Standards Section of the Watershed Planning Program (WPP) to lead WPP efforts related to per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS). Duties include development of water quality standards, management of PFAS and other EC monitoring and assessment projects, and coordination within MassDEP and other agencies on these issues. This position will be the main contact for EC and PFAS activities within WPP. For specifics on the position, see the job posting.

Division of Marine Fisheries Positions - DMF is seeking applications for three positions in the New Bedford office. The Shellfish Classification Biologist will assist with the operation of DMF’s Shellfish Sanitation and Management Program, including bacteriological analysis, sanitary classification and monitoring of shellfish growing areas, and technical assistance. The Aquatic Biologist will prepare and execute all aspects of two bottom trawl surveys and one seine survey per year, conduct post-processing of survey data, and represent agency and survey project at meetings. The Invertebrate Fisheries Biologist will assist with all aspects of monitoring and assessing population status of commercially important marine invertebrates in Massachusetts coastal waters.

DCR Lifeguards - DCR is seeking certified lifeguards for DCR pools and inland and ocean beaches. A limited number of free lifeguard and first aid/CPR training courses are available through May for candidates that commit to a DCR position for the summer of 2024. For details, see the DCR Lifeguarding web page.

Community Educator - The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy in Chatham is seeking a full-time Community Educator to engage the public in research-based education programs, workshops, school programs, and summer programs, all centered around shark biology, white shark research, and ocean conservation. For additional information, see the job listing (PDF, 181 KB).

Ipswich River Watershed Association Executive Director - The Ipswich River Watershed Association is seeking an Executive Director to lead the organization into the future and provide overall management, staff development, and implementation of strategic initiatives. For more information and application instructions, see the job posting. Applications are due by March 15.

APCC Positions - The Association to Preserve Cape Cod is seeking applicants for several full-time, seasonal, and intern positions, including Restoration Coordinator, Pond Monitoring Technician, APCC Eco-Landscape Audit Program Manager, Restoration Intern, Cyanobacteria Monitoring Interns, and Ecological Land Care Summer Interns. For details and application instructions, see the APCC Employment page.

Buzzards Bay Coalition Positions - The Buzzards Bay Coalition is seeking applicants for several full-time and seasonal positions, including Event Associate, Senior Waterfront/Sailing Instructor, Assistant Coordinator-Baywatchers Monitoring Program, Sailing Instructor, Waterfront Instructor, and Salt Marsh Research Technician. For details, including application instructions, see the Coalition’s Job Opportunities page.

Summer Camp Staff - The Trustees of Reservations is seeking seasonal staff for the SummerQuest day camp at the Crane Estate in Ipswich, which provides environmental education, crafts, sports, and other activities for kids ages 5-14. For details, see the seasonal job postings for Seasonal Camp Director, Seasonal Assistant Camp Director, and Seasonal Camp Educator.

Summer Environmental Educators - The Westport River Watershed Alliance (WRWA) is seeking two Environmental Educators for the summer of 2024 to assist with field trips for public schools, assist with development of lesson plans and educational materials, and learn to lead outdoor programs for participants ages 5-16 during the summer. Applicants who are certified lifeguards or those seeking to get certified will receive a salary bump and WRWA will cover the certification fees. These positions range from 30-35 hours per week from June 3-August 16. For specifics, see the WRWA Jobs and Internships page. Applications are due by March 15.

Summer Outdoor Education Assistant - The North and South Rivers Watershed Association is seeking a Summer Outdoor Education Assistant to assist with outdoor youth activities Mondays through Fridays from June 22-August 23. For details and to apply, see the job posting.

Summer Science School Teacher - The Waquoit Bay Reserve Foundation, in partnership with the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (WBNERR), is seeking a teacher to co-teach children in grades 2-12 in weekly sessions related to estuary ecology from July 8-August 16. For details, see the WBNERR Employment page.

Summer Environmental Education Internships - The Center for Coastal Studies in Provincetown is seeking applications from college students and recent graduates for summer Marine Education Internships to assist with environmental education programs. For more information, see the Center’s Internships page. Applications are due by March 8.

Reminders - These job postings, listed previously in CZ-Mail, are still open:

Calendar - Individual Events and Announcements

NEERS Spring Meeting—Call for Abstracts - April 18-20, sponsored by the New England Estuarine Research Society (NEERS) to be held in Freeport, Maine, with a virtual option. Abstracts are due by February 5.

Hazard Mitigation Partners Workshop - February 5-8, virtual workshop for the public and private sector presented by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

5th Annual PFAS Seminar - February 6, event presented by the Environmental Business Council of New England (EBC) to be held in Framingham.

Nature-Based Solutions Policy Forum - February 7-8, from the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine to be held in Washington, DC.

11th Annual New England Regional Offshore Wind Conference - February 13, conference sponsored by EBC to be held in Boston, with a virtual option.

Boston Harbor Environmental Education Workshop - February 13, workshop for educators presented by Stone Living Lab with virtual lightning talks and discussions, an in-person session for collaboration, and an activity fair.

New England Brownfields State Leadership Conference - February 14, inaugural conference from EBC to be held online.

Mud Matters: Understanding the Role of Ocean Sediments in Storing Carbon - February 15, webinar from the NOAA National Marine Protected Area Center and Open Communications for the Ocean.

24th AEES Meeting—Call for Abstracts - May 29-31, annual meeting of the American Ecological Engineering Society (AEES) to be held in at Virginia Tech University in Blacksburg, Virginia. Abstracts are due by February 15.

Soil and Water Conservation Society 2024 Winter Conference - February 16, conference of the Southern New England Chapter of the Soil and Water Conservation Society with a focus on “Resilient Restoration” to be held in Warwick, Rhode Island.

Ecological Landscaping Conference - February 21-22, virtual conference and eco-marketplace sponsored by the Ecological Landscaping Alliance.

MassDEP Bureau of Water Resources Leadership Update—Rescheduled - February 27, event from EBC on MassDEP programs for wastewater, drinking water, wetlands, and surface water quality, to be held in Boston.

MACC Annual Conference - March 2, conference sponsored by the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions (MACC) to be held in Worcester and will include a workshop by CZM and MassDEP, “Developed Coastal Dune and Barrier Beach Resource Delineations, Functions, and Performance Standards,” along with dozens of other offerings.

Environmental, Energy, and Engineering Career Fair - March 4, job fair sponsored by EBC to be held in Boston.

MEES Conference - March 6, annual conference of the Massachusetts Environmental Education Society (MEES) to be held in Worcester.

High School Marine Science Symposium - March 7, annual symposium sponsored by Massachusetts Marine Educators and Northeastern University’s Marine Science Center to be held at Northeastern University in Boston.

NMEA 2024 Annual Conference—Call for Presenters - July 28-August 1, conference of the National Marine Educators Association (NMEA) to be held in Boston, hosted by Massachusetts Marine Educators with the theme “Wicked Good Marine Education.” Presentation proposals are due by March 8.

Cape Cod Natural History Conference - March 9, annual MassAudubon conference at Cape Cod Community College in West Barnstable.

2024 National Coastal and Estuarine Summit—Call for Proposals - October 6-10, annual conference sponsored by Restore America’s Estuaries to be held in Washington, DC. Proposals are due by March 15.

Boston Sea Rovers Ocean Expo - March 15-17, annual Boston Sea Rovers showcase of the marine environment with a focus on diving that includes seminars, workshops, displays of dive equipment and services, an art exhibit, kids’ activities, and a film festival to be held in Danvers.

Zosterapalooza XXXIV - March 27, virtual workshop from EPA Region 1 with a focus on current eelgrass research in coastal waters. For details and to be added to the attendee list, contact EPA’s Phil Colarusso at colarusso.phil@epa.gov.

CRWA Annual Meeting - March 27, annual meeting of the Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) to be held in Cambridge.

2024 National Watershed and Stormwater Conference - April 8-11, annual conference sponsored by the Center for Watershed Protection to be held in Kansas City, Missouri.

34th Annual Nonpoint Source Pollution (NPS) Conference - April 10-11, conference sponsored by NEIWPCC with theme, “Climate Resiliency through NPS Outreach and Implementation,” to be held in Old Saybrook, Connecticut.

2024 Earth Day Charles River Cleanup - April 20, river cleanup sponsored by the Charles River Watershed Association. Registration is required.

Muddy River Cleanup - April 20, annual cleanup sponsored by the Emerald Necklace Conservancy as part of the Annual Earth Day Charles River Cleanup.

Neponset River Spring Cleanup - April 20, waterfront and parkland cleanup sponsored by the Neponset River Watershed Association.

79th Annual Northeast Fish and Wildlife Conference - April 21-24, sponsored by the Northeast Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies to be held on Cape Cod.

City Nature Challenge 2024 - April 26-May 5, a citizen-science opportunity organized by the Natural History Museum Los Angeles County and the California Academy of Sciences held cities around the world.

40th Run of the Charles - April 27, canoe, kayak, and paddleboard race sponsored by the Charles River Watershed Association. Registration is required.

River Rally 2024 - May 13-16, conference on equitable and sustainable water resources sponsored by the River Network to be held in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Buzzards Bay Swim - June 22, fundraiser for all ages and abilities to support the Buzzards Bay Coalition. Registration is required.

Stormwater Conference - August 27-29, annual conference sponsored by StormCon to be held in Reno, Nevada.

U.S. Symposium on Harmful Algae - October 27-November 1, 12th symposium organized by NEIWPCC to be held in Portland, Maine.

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

  • Social Coast Forum - February 12-15, seventh forum from the NOAA Office for Coastal Management and the National Estuarine Research Reserve Association with a focus on “Social Science for Equitable Coastal Resilience” to be held in Charleston, South Carolina.
  • Northeast Aquatic Biologists Conference - February 14-16, annual conference sponsored by NEIWPCC to be held in Fairlee, Vermont.
  • Ocean Sciences Meeting - February 18-23, the biennial meeting co-sponsored by the American Geophysical Union, the Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography, and The Oceanography Society to be held in New Orleans, Louisiana, with limited virtual presentations.
  • International Erosion Control Conference - February 25-28, conference and exposition sponsored by the International Erosion Control Association on erosion, sediment control, and stormwater to be held in Spokane, Washington.
  • Northeast Conference on the Science of PFAS - April 2-4, conference from the Northeast Waste Management Officials Association, NEIWPCC, Northeast States for Coordinated Air Use Management, and the Northeast Recycling Council, to be held in Marlborough.
  • National Adaptation Forum - May 14-16, annual event for climate adaptation professionals to be held in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
  • National Floodplain Managers Conference - June 23-27, 48th annual conference sponsored by the Association of State Floodplain Managers to be held in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Calendar - Multiple/Ongoing Events

Barnstable Land Trust Events - Programs for children and adults across Barnstable.

Boston Harbor Islands Events - Upcoming events and activities in the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park.

Boston Harbor Now Events - Events throughout the Boston Harbor area.

Buzzards Bay Events - Regional events compiled by the Buzzards Bay Coalition.

Cape Cod Bird Club Walks and Activities - Free bird-watching field trips across Cape Cod.

Cape Cod Maritime Museum Events - Upcoming events and lectures at the museum in Hyannis.

Cape Cod Museum of Natural History Programs - A calendar of events at the museum in Brewster.

Center for Coastal Studies Events - Events across the Cape Cod region.

Charles River Watershed Events - Events throughout the watershed compiled by the Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA).

Climate Adaptation Webinars - Webinars on climate change, adaptation, and resilience from the Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Coastal Perspectives Lecture Series - Lectures offered both in-person and online through April sponsored by the University of Connecticut.

Conservation Commission Education - Workshops, webinars, and trainings scheduled across Massachusetts and posted by the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions. See the MACC Complete Education Catalog and Community Calendar.

Dam Busters 101 Webinars Series - Lunchtime webinars on dam removal in Massachusetts sponsored by the Massachusetts Rivers Alliance, DER, and CRWA.

Ecological Landscaping Events - Webinars, classes, and events from the Ecological Landscape Alliance.

Evening with Experts Series - Free public lecture series on ecology and native plant landscaping, including recordings of past events, hosted by Grow Native Massachusetts.

Ipswich River Watershed Events - Events throughout the watershed compiled by the Ipswich River Watershed Association.

Keep Massachusetts Beautiful Events - Talks and volunteer opportunities across the Commonwealth on litter prevention and cleanup, waste reduction and recycling, beautification and community greening, and environmental education.

Lloyd Center for the Environment Activities - Birding and nature walks and other activities for all ages at the Lloyd Center in Dartmouth.

Marion Natural History Museum Programs - Community and summer programs at the museum in Marion.

Mass Audubon Program Catalog - Programs for children and adults hosted at the following Mass Audubon coastal locations:

MBL Falmouth Forum Lecture Series - Free public lectures at the Marine Biological Lab (MBL) in Woods Hole.

MVP Winter Webinar Series - Webinars on February 14, 21, and 28 from EEA’s Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Program on climate preparedness and available tools, tips, solutions, and funding for municipalities.

Mystic River Watershed Events - Events throughout the watershed compiled by the Mystic River Watershed Association.

Nantucket Conservation Foundation Events - Activities and events across Nantucket.

National Marine Sanctuaries Webinars - Webinars hosted by the sanctuary system.

Native Plant Trust Events - Classes, field studies, and webinars across Massachusetts.

Neponset River Watershed Association Events - Events throughout the watershed.

New England Aquarium Events - Upcoming events, lectures, and programs at the New England Aquarium. Recordings of past lectures are available on the Aquarium Lecture Series page.

NOAA Coastal Training and Learning Resources - A range of training opportunities from NOAA’s Digital Coast.

NOAA Planet Stewards Events - Webinars, workshops, and book club sessions from the NOAA Planet Stewards Education Project.

NOAA Science Seminars - Webinars and seminars on science and climate issues from several NOAA partners.

North and South Rivers Watershed Association Events - Event listings on the South Shore, including the 2024 WaterWatch lectures series with talks through March.

Salem Sound Coastwatch Events - Activities and events posted in the Salem Sound region.

Trustees Activities - Programs and activities at The Trustees of Reservations properties across the Commonwealth.

Walks & Events in Orleans - Guided walks, programs, and talks from the Orleans Conservation Trust.

Walks, Talks, & Events in Harwich - Birding and nature walks and talks from the Harwich Conservation Trust.

Waquoit Bay Reserve Programs - Activities for kids and adults from the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Westport River Watershed Alliance Events - Events presented by the Westport River Watershed Alliance.

Other Items of Interest

New England Fishery Management Council - Massachusetts is seeking qualified individuals for two open seats on the New England Fishery Management Council, one of eight regional councils that manage fisheries in U.S. federal waters. Qualified individuals interested in being considered for nomination by Governor Healey should contact Julia Kaplan at Julia.Kaplan@mass.gov. Nominations are due by February 2.

Mystic River Volunteers - The Mystic River Watershed Association (MyRWA) is seeking volunteers to help with river and park cleanups, invasive plant removal, water quality monitoring, river herring monitoring, watershed education, and more. For more information on getting involved, see the MyRWA website.

Volunteer Water Monitoring - The Neponset River Watershed Association is seeking volunteers to join the Community Water Monitoring Network for the 2024 season (May-October) to help monitor water quality in the Neponset River Watershed. Training is provided. If interested, please contact Sean McCanty at mccanty@neponset.org.

Science without Borders Art Challenge - The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation has launched the 2024 Science without Borders Challenge, an international contest for students and teachers involved and interested in ocean conservation through art. Students are encouraged to create a piece of art that illustrates this year’s theme, “Hidden Wonders of the Deep.” Primary and secondary school students ages 11-19 are eligible, with prizes of up to $500 awarded to winning entries. The deadline for entry is March 4.

Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Contest - Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Programs, Inc., is now accepting creative submissions for the 2024 Ocean Awareness Contest with the theme, “Tell Your Climate Story.” Students ages 11-18 can work as individuals or as a group, class, or club and submit entries highlighting how climate change has impacted them and their communities or how they have been inspired by the climate crisis. Participants can earn cash awards and scholarships. Submissions are due by June 10.

Sea Education Association High School Programs - The Sea Education Association (SEA) in Woods Hole is seeking applications for its 2024 High School Summer Programs. SEASCape: Ocean Studies on the Cape allows students to study the marine environment while living in Woods Hole. SEA Expedition is a two-week offshore sailing and oceanographic research voyage where high school students and recent graduates get a hands-on science and sailing experience. SEA Quest is a two-week, online summer seminar program for high school students from around the world to learn about the sea and ocean conservation, while preparing for college level academics.

Watershed Discovery Programs - Registration is now open for the Westport River Watershed Alliance Watershed Discovery Programs for kids aged 7-16 to learn about coastal ecology and explore coastal habitats in week-long programs. Also, three-hour, morning, drop-off programs are available for children ages 5-6.

Lewis E. Kimball Scholarship - The Friends of Chatham Waterways (FCW) is seeking applications for the Lewis E. Kimball Environmental Scholarship, with up to $3,000 available for upper-level undergraduate or graduate students from Cape Cod or the Islands majoring in environmental studies, marine ecology, or a related field. For more information, see the FCW Scholarships & Awards page. The application deadline is March 31.

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