CZ-Mail - February 2017

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, coastal legislation, 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 [e-mail]. 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, please email your request to [e-mail]. For daily updates from CZM, please follow us on Twitter.

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

Highlights

Support Available for Communities on Stormwater Issues - In April 2016, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) co-issued the final General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems In Massachusetts (PDF, 735 KB), referred to as the MS4 permit. The MS4 permit applies to most—but not all—cities and towns in the coastal zone (PDF, 2 MB) and coastal watersheds [see the designated MS4 areas (PDF, 2 MB)] and becomes effective July 1, 2017, with Notices of Intent due on September 29, 2017. CZM is providing support for coastal communities through technical assistance and the Coastal Pollutant Remediation (CPR) stormwater grant program. The Fiscal Year 18 Request for Responses (RFR) for CPR grants is anticipated to be released in the spring, and CZM staff will be holding regional outreach meetings to answer questions about the program. Stay tuned for announcements of these informational meetings. CZM also recently released the Report on Climate Change Impacts to Coastal Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs), providing practical recommendations to modify existing BMPs and promote green infrastructure options that can be readily adapted to address climate change impacts and reduce costs. In addition, work is underway on a guidebook for municipal planners, consultants, and others on stormwater management in communities. The guidebook will include: planning and zoning tools to improve stormwater at the municipal scale; strategies for improving stormwater management during subdivision application and site plan reviews; and a BMP Selection Tool that focuses on Low Impact Development (LID) techniques and reducing stormwater contaminants, such as bacteria and nitrogen, which are common pollutants in coastal waters. For more information on the CPR grant program and coastal water quality, contact Adrienne Pappal at [e-mail] or Cristina Kennedy at [e-mail]. For more information or to provide feedback on the stormwater guidebook for planners, contact Ashley Green at [e-mail]. For more information on the MS4 permit requirements, contact Fred Civian at [e-mail].

Ocean Advisory Commission Meets - On January 26, CZM hosted a meeting of the Commonwealth’s Ocean Advisory Commission to discuss continued implementation of the Massachusetts Ocean Management Plan and related topics including ocean-based aquaculture, offshore wind and transmission, offshore sand resources, and updates on the Northeast Ocean Plan and the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument, designated by President Obama in September 2016. The 17-member commission includes legislators, representatives from a commercial fishing organization and an environmental organization, an expert in offshore renewable energy, representatives from the coastal Regional Planning Agencies, and the heads of CZM, MassDEP, and Division of Marine Fisheries. The commission will convene again for its next meeting in spring 2017.

CZ-Tip - Search the Seashore for Sunken Ships Exposed by Storm Waves - The next time you walk the beach in search of strange things washed up from intense winter storms, keep a watchful eye for half-buried timbers and other artifacts from long-ago shipwrecks. Every year, evidence of archeological finds from under the sea is either washed up or uncovered by winter waves and tides. Given that the Massachusetts Board of Underwater Archaeological Resources estimates that more than 3,000 vessels have wrecked off the Massachusetts coast, there is a true treasure trove of material to be discovered. And though some of these objects are seemingly quite ordinary (e.g., a piece of wood), they should be handled with care—any find has the potential to be an important piece of maritime history. To learn more about the importance of underwater archeological finds, who is responsible for protecting them, and how to safeguard these potential treasures, see CZ-Tip - Uncovering Maritime History at the Shore.

Grants/Funding/Proposal Opportunities

Woods Hole Sea Grant Omnibus Request for Proposals - Woods Hole Sea Grant (WHSG) is seeking proposals for the 2018-2020 Omnibus Request for Proposals to fund projects beginning February 1, 2018. Based at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, WHSG supports research, education, and extension projects that encourage environmental stewardship, long-term economic development, and responsible use of the nation’s coastal and ocean resources. The theme areas for the 2018-2020 request are healthy coastal ecosystems, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, resilient communities and economies, and environmental literacy and workforce development. However, pre-proposals representing other areas will be considered. For more information, contact Judy McDowell at [e-mail] or [phone]. Submit pre-proposals to [e-mail] by February 24.

319 Nonpoint Source Competitive Grants Pre-RFR Meetings - On March 2 and 9 at 10 A.M., MassDEP will hold two meetings to field questions and discuss the upcoming RFR for the next grant round of the §319 Nonpoint Source Competitive Grants. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to attend these pre-RFR sessions, to be held at the MassDEP offices in Worcester. The pre-RFR announcement and information about the program and past §319 projects can be seen at the MassDEP website.

Land and Water Conservation Fund Grants - The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Division of Conservation Services is seeking proposals for Land and Water Conservation Fund Grants, which provide up to $300,000 in matching funds to state agencies and local governments for the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. Applications are due by March 9.

Nantucket Biodiversity Initiative Research Grants - The Nantucket Biodiversity Initiative (NBI) is seeking proposals for NBI Research Grants to conduct research that expands knowledge of understudied taxonomic groups and the overall biodiversity of Nantucket, Tuckernuck, and/or Muskeget Islands. The mission of the NBI is to conserve the native biodiversity of Nantucket through collaborative research, monitoring, and education. Proposals are due by March 15.

NOAA Coastal Resilience Grants - The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking proposals for the 2017 Coastal Resilience Grants. NOAA will award an estimated $15 million to fund projects that will advance healthy and sustainable coastal ecosystems through habitat restoration, as well as support approaches to build resilience of coastal regions, communities, and the economy by developing plans and implementing actions to mitigate the negative impacts of extreme weather and climate-related hazards. Typical award amounts will range from $250,000 to $1 million for projects lasting up to three years. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, institutions of higher education, regional organizations, private (for profit) entities and local, state, and tribal governments. Applications are due by March 15.

Products/Publications

Smart Growth and Climate Change Guidance - EPA has released Smart Growth Fixes for Climate Adaptation and Resilience: Changing Land Use and Building Codes to Prepare for Climate Change, a guidance document that can help local government officials, staff, and boards find strategies to prepare for climate change impacts through land use and building policies. The document outlines more than 70 policies local government can consider to help adapt to current or projected flooding and extreme precipitation, sea level rise and storm surge, extreme heat, drought, and wildfire.

Plastic Pollution Toxicity - EPA has published State of the Science White Paper: A Summary of Literature on the Chemical Toxicity of Plastics Pollution to Aquatic Life and Aquatic-Dependent Wildlife, a white paper to identify a state of the science on the toxicological effects of plastics and their associated chemicals on aquatic-dependent wildlife and aquatic life and identify opportunities for research to further understanding of the potential toxic impacts of plastic ingestion throughout the food web.

MassBays Newsletter - The winter 2017 issue of the MassBays Newsletter, the quarterly update from the Massachusetts Bays National Estuary Program (MassBays), highlights municipal resources to tackle sea level rise, citizen monitoring activities in Salem, and other MassBays news. Consider subscribing to receive updates directly.

Fellow News - The January 2017 issue of Fellow News, the quarterly newsletter of NOAA’s Coastal Management Fellow program, features Ashley Green, CZM’s 2015-2017 NOAA Coastal Fellow. Ashley is currently developing a guidebook for planning board members, municipal planners, and other local officials that provides strategies and tools to improve stormwater management in communities.

Division of Ecological Restoration 2016 Annual Report - The Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game’s Division of Ecological Restoration (DER) has released 2016 Annual Impact Report: Restoring Natural Infrastructure (PDF, 2 MB), which highlights many DER-supported restoration projects and activities across Massachusetts that benefit local communities and the state’s economy.

Natural Hazards Observer - The December 2016 issue of the Natural Hazards Observer, the bimonthly periodical of the Natural Hazards Center in Boulder, Colorado, includes articles on improving disaster resilience through pets, floods in Louisiana, and other natural hazards news and information.

The Sandbar - The January 2017 issue of The Sandbar, a quarterly publication reporting on legal issues affecting the U.S. oceans and coasts by the National Sea Grant College Program, features articles on humpback whale regulations, salmon fisheries management, and other ocean- and coastal-related legal issues.

Buzzards Bay Coalition Newsletter - The December 2016 issue of The Bay Buzz from the Buzzards Bay Coalition features articles on the Acushnet River Reserve, Sunday walks on the South Coast, and other Buzzards Bay news and events.

Newswave - The Fall 2016/Winter 2017 issue of NEWSWAVE, the quarterly newsletter on ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes activities from the U.S. Department of the Interior, features articles on the first U.S. Marine National Monument in the Atlantic, the Nation’s first ocean plans, and other ocean and coastal news.

Sound Waves - The October-December 2016 issue of Sound Waves, the newsletter from U.S. Geological Survey, features articles on dunes in the Southeast lost to Hurricane Matthew, measuring coastal erosion in California, and other coastal and marine research news.

Marine Ecosystems and Management Information Service - The December 2016 edition of Marine Ecosystems and Management, the bimonthly information service on marine ecosystem-based management (EBM) from the University of Washington School of Marine Affairs, includes articles shifting governance on ocean conservation and management, addressing long-term problems with short-term budgets, and other notes and news.

Beneath the Surface - The January 2017 issue of Beneath the Surface, a newsletter from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), feature articles on fish adaptation to high levels of pollutants, communicating under sea ice, and other news and updates from WHOI.

Marine Protected Area Newsletter - The December 2016 issue of MPA News features articles on Marine Protected Area (MPA) financing, a new tool for MPAs with marine mammals, and other MPA news and notes.

MPA Connections - The January 2017 edition of Marine Protected Areas Connections, the newsletter of NOAA’s National Marine Protected Areas Center, features articles on conserving shipwrecks in two proposed sanctuaries, a new National Estuarine Research Reserve in Hawaii, and other MPA news.

Web-Based and Mobile-User Resources

Revolution - The new documentary film, Revolution, embarks on a global journey to uncover the grave dangers threatening the world’s oceans. From the coral reefs in Papua New Guinea to the rainforests of Madagascar, the narrator’s travels reveal stunning scenes of underwater sea life and the impacts of humans. The footage also reveals evidence of ocean acidification, resulting in empty stretches of expired coral reefs.

Voices of the Gulf of Maine - The Gulf Maine Research Institute has published The Weatherman, the latest episode in the Voices of the Gulf of Maine video series. This episode features meteorologist John Cannon, marine program manager at the National Weather Service. His mission is to understand and predict the weather to assist mariners, shoreline residents, emergency responders and many other community stakeholders.

Job Postings

Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge Internships - The Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge in Wells, Maine, is seeking applicants for several summer internships. Interns work with refuge staff on resource management operations and outreach. Duties include shorebird nest monitoring, conducting wildlife surveys, invasive plant control and mapping, propagating native plants, fish sampling, developing and delivering outreach programs, and assisting visitors in the refuge contact station. For more information see the Refuge website. Applications are due by February 17.

New England Science and Sailing Internships - New England Science and Sailing (NESS) is seeking applications for a wide array of internships and junior instructor positions. Internships and junior instructor positions are open to high school and college students, from teaching to marine trades opportunities and caring for on-site animals. Each position provides an opportunity to gain experience and develop skills vital to career success. For more information, see the NESS website.

Center for Coastal Studies Summer Internships - The Center for Coastal Studies in Provincetown is seeking applicants for several summer internships to assist with the Center’s humpback whale research and environmental education programs. For more information, including application details and deadlines, see the Center’s website.

APCC Summer Internships - The Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC) is seeking applicants for two, paid, summer internships. This program is designed to provide interns with challenging environmental projects that support APCC’s mission to protect and restore the natural environment of Cape Cod and to promote environmental stewardship. For more information, see the APPC website.

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

Camp Instructors - The New England Aquarium's Harbor Discoveries Camp is seeking applicants for Camp Instructors. Harbor Discoveries Camp is an interactive marine and environmental science program that incorporates traditional camp activities. Instructors lead a group of up to 32 participants through Aquarium galleries, behind-the-scenes tours, field trips, and other excursions to encourage a discovery and appreciation of the natural world.

Fisheries Research Intern - The Cape Cod Commercial Fishermen’s Alliance in partnership with The Nature Conservancy is seeking applicants for a Fisheries Research Intern to assist with halibut research and other fisheries projects beginning mid-May through late August, 2017. For more information, see the Alliance website. Applications are due by February 20.

Duxbury Beach Reservation Manager - The Duxbury Beach Reservation is seeking applicants for a Manager to coordinate and support all aspects of the organization, including resource and species conservation, regulatory compliance, regulatory interactions, progressive fundraising development, grant writing, and community relations, programs, and activities. For more information, including the complete job description, see the Reservation website.

Calendar

Unusual Catches Day - On February 4, the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center will host Unusual Catches Day, which provides an opportunity for current and retired fishermen to bring in treasures from the deep—artifacts pulled up during fishing trips. A team of maritime archeologists will be at the Center to examine each artifact and share information about it. All are welcome to come, watch, and learn. The event is free event and free parking will be available.

Winter Talks in Harwich - The Harwich Conservation Trust has posted its schedule of winter talks. On February 4, Norman Smith from MassAudubon will present Tracking Snowy Owls at Boston’s Logan Airport: Wildlife Research Takes Flight. All talks are free and open to the public. For more information, see the Trust's website.

Environmental Film Series - On February 4, Mass Audubon’s Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, the Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theater, and WCAI Radio will kick off the 2017 Sea Change Environmental Film Series with Saving Jamaica Bay, a new documentary about local citizens determined to save one of the most abused wetland habitats in the country which still supports a wide array of wildlife. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion about the Herring River restoration.

Coastal GeoTools 2017 - From February 6-9, Coastal GeoTools 2017 will be held in North Charleston, South Carolina. This bi-annual conference focuses on the technical information needs of the nation’s coastal programs.

Water Watch Lecture Series - On Wednesdays through March 8, the North and South Rivers Watershed Association will hold the WaterWatch Lecture Series at the South Shore Natural Science Center. On February 8 at 7:00 p.m., Debra Jackson, Tom Mulloy, and Hank Lynch, will present Local Shipwrecks and Underwater Artifacts. Lectures are free and open to the public.

Climate Adaptation Planning for Coastal Communities Webinar - On February 8, the Northeast Climate Science Center will present Improving Climate Adaptation Planning for Coastal Communities: Local Planning Informed by Regional Hazard Exposure Analysis, a webinar that will summarize efforts of the National Wildlife Federation to support community-based climate adaptation planning in the Great Marsh. A complementary U.S. Geological Survey analysis of community exposure in this area to coastal-inundation hazards associated with sea level rise and storm scenarios will also be discussed.

Ocean Literacy Webinar - In February, the National Marine Educators Association will present two Ocean Literacy Webinars. On February 9, Ocean Literacy Webinar 2: Alignment of the Ocean Literacy Framework with the NGSS will be presented. On February 23, Ocean Literacy Webinar 3: Organizing for Ocean Literacy - Implementation at Different Scales will be presented.

Climate Change Program - On February 10, the Environmental Business Council of New England (EBC) will present part one of its Climate Change Program Series. Adaptation and Resiliency Programs at the State Level will focus on adaptation and resilience in Massachusetts with agency staff that work in climate adaptation and resiliency programs discussing 2017 initiatives and how each program contributes to the State Adaptation Plan. CZM Director Bruce Carlisle will discuss CZM’s resiliency efforts.

Science Before Supper Talks - On February 16, the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) Associates will hold a Science Before Supper Talk at the Falmouth Public Library. MBL scientist Zoe Cardon will present Ebb and Flow in Soil Down Below: Plant Roots and the Ecosystem Commodities Exchange.

National Climate Assessment Meeting - From February 16-20, the American Association for the Advancement of Science will hold its 2017 Annual Meeting, Serving Society through Science Policy, in Boston. The meeting will feature session on a variety of science and policy topics.

Climate Science for Educators - On February 20-21 and 23-24, the New England Aquarium will hold two sessions of the Teacher Workshop, Climate Science for Educators, for teachers of grades 6-8. This workshop will examine the use and distribution of natural resources, model the effects humans have on the climate, examine current natural disasters and predict effects of future disasters, and examine ways humans are developing solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change. Participants will gain content background in climate science as well as hands-on practice in inquiry-based activities that they may take back to the classroom, while adhering to the revised Massachusetts curriculum frameworks.

Marine Science Lectures - In 2017, the Northeastern University Marine Science Center is continuing its series of monthly marine science lectures through March. On February 21, Steven Scyphers, Assistant Professor, Northeastern University, will present Pursuing Sustainability along Crowded Coastlines. On March 21, Dr. Phil Colarusso, Marine Biologist, EPA, will present How Do You Like Your Carbon? I'll Take Mine Blue. These lectures, which are free and open to the public, are held at the Murphy Bunker Classroom at the Marine Science Center in Nahant. Lectures start at 7:00 p.m. and light refreshments will be served at 6:30 p.m.

Underwater in Salem Sound Lecture Series - Through April, Salem Sound Coastwatch will hold free monthly Underwater in Salem Sound lectures at Marblehead’s Abbot Public Library at 7:00 p.m. on the last Wednesday of each month. On February 22, Ethan Edson, research technician for Northeastern University’s Marine Science Center, will present MantaRay - Advancing Research on Marine Debris. Ethan will discuss the effects of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems and current methods used to quantify and measure these effects. He will share his story of how he developed the MantaRay to collect crucial data needed to better understand this problem. This lecture is free and open to the public.

Seabirds of Stellwagen Bank - On February 22, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will present Seabirds of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Visitors are invited to come to the museum and eat like a seabird, build a bird with your own extreme adaptations, discover what your wing span is, and follow a satellite-tagged Shearwater on an 18,000 mile trip.

Soil and Water Conservation Society Winter Conference - On February 24, the Soil and Water Conservation Society Southern New England Chapter will hold the 2017 Winter Conference in Berlin, Connecticut. The conference will explore the unique hazards faced by urban soils, present the many benefits these soils offer, and address ideas for improving and protecting soils to sustain a healthy urban environment for the future.

Birding on the Upper Cape - The Thornton W. Burgess Society is offering winter birding excursions on the Upper Cape with naturalist John Hanlon. Participants meet at the Green Briar Nature Center in East Sandwich and travel by passenger van to scope out wintering birds along the coastal shoreline, in local woodlands, and on freshwater ponds. The next trip is on February 25. To register, call [phone].

Boating Safety Course - From March 2 through June 14, the Massachusetts Environmental Police will offer Boat Massachusetts, a free, state and nationally approved boating safety course for boaters age 12 and older. The course concentrates on the equipment and operating guidelines needed to enjoy boating in a safe and responsible way. All graduates ages 12-15 will receive a safety certificate that allows operation of a motorboat without adult supervision, as required by state law. All graduates ages 16-17 will also be allowed to operate a personal watercraft (jet ski, wave runner, etc.).

MACC Conference - On March 4, the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions (MACC) will hold the 2017 MACC Annual Environmental Conference in Worcester. Join more than 1,000 conservation commissioners, local officials, state and federal officials, consultants, and attorneys for the largest regular environmental conference in New England. CZM and MassDEP staff will be co-presenting two workshops on Protecting Land Subject to Coastal Storm Flowage and Protecting the Storm Damage Prevention and Flood Control Interests of Coastal Resource Areas.

Local Environmental Action Conference - On March 5, the Mass Climate Action Network and the Toxics Action Center will hold Local Environmental Action 2017 at Northeastern University. This conference will feature workshops on sustainable energy, waste reduction, environmental justice, pipelines in New England, and other topics.

RES/CON Conference - From March 7-9, the 2017 RES/CON: The Global Resilience Summit will be held in New Orleans, Louisiana. This conference will focus on disaster and resiliency in a global environment. Topics include economic resilience, emergency management, coastal restoration and water management, homeland security, and business continuity.

2017 Annual Environmental Conference - On March 8, the Massachusetts Environmental Education Society (MEES) will hold its 2017 Annual Conference, Looking to the Past to Inform Our Future, in Worcester. The MEES Conference brings together environmental educators from all regions of Massachusetts and from a variety of industries including K-12 schools, nature centers, urban environmental programs, museums, and more.

Ecological Landscaping Conference - From March 8-9, the Ecological Landscaping Association (ELA) will hold the ELA Conference and Eco-Marketplace, Sustaining the Living Landscape, in Amherst. The 2017 conference will explore topics including landscape design, plant functions, creative stormwater design, and more.

High School Marine Science Symposium - The Massachusetts Marine Educators will hold the 2017 High School Marine Science Symposium in Boston on March 9 and Salem on March 15. Join hundreds of high schoolers and their teachers to learn about research and practices around marine science topics and issues. The event features both keynote speakers in a plenary format as well as hands-on break-out workshops led by scientists, policymakers, graduate students, and others engaged in marine-related careers.

Cape Cod Natural History Conference - On March 11, the MassAudubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary will hold the 22^nd annual Cape Cod Natural History Conference at Cape Cod Community College in West Barnstable. This full-day conference will feature presenters from environmental organizations across Cape Cod speaking on a diversity of natural history topics.

Sea Rovers Clinic - From March 11-12, the Boston Sea Rovers will hold the 2017 Sea Rovers Clinic in Danvers. Each year, the clinic is held to increase the awareness and appreciation of the marine environment with a focus on diving. The 2017 Clinic will include more than 30 daytime seminars, workshops, a marine sciences career fair, an international film festival, and a large display of dive equipment and services in New England.

Environmental Biologist Conference - From March 14-16, the New England Association of Environmental Biologists (NEAEB) will hold its 41^st annual meeting in Hartford, Connecticut. NEAEB 2017 is a three-day conference that provides a forum for presenting current work and research on pressing environmental issues relevant to the region.

Healthy Waters Conference - On March 16, Watershed Action Alliance will hold a one-day conference, Solutions for Healthy Waters, in Hanson. Conference sessions will include talks on invasive plants, effective science communication, and drought and flood resilience. Invited speaker, Dr. Pia Moisander of UMass Dartmouth, will talk about the challenge of cyanobacteria in local waterways and ways to prevent it from becoming a health and water quality issue.

Sustainability Conference - On March 17, Massachusetts Sustainable Communities and Campuses, Salem Sound Coastwatch, and Endicott College will present the 2017 Massachusetts Sustainable Communities and Campuses Conference, Sustainability by Land & Sea, at Endicott College in Beverly. The conference will feature sessions on best practices, current trends, and resources for sustainable practices in the Commonwealth’s communities and campuses.

Managing Floodplain Development Course - From March 20-23, a Managing Floodplain Development through the National Flood Insurance Program course will offered in Danvers. This course is the field deployed version of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Emergency Management Institute course, which focuses on the National Flood Insurance Program and concepts of floodplain management, maps and studies, ordinance administration, and the relationship between floodplain management and flood insurance. This course is sponsored by FEMA Region I, the Association of State Floodplain Managers, and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). For more information, contact DCR’s Joy Duperault at [e-mail].

CRWA Annual Meeting - On March 22, the Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) will hold its 51^st Annual Meeting in Newton. The keynote speaker, Bob Perciasepe, President of the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, will present Advancing Climate Solutions: Where Do We Go from Here?

Economics of Coastal Adaptation Workshop - On March 29, the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve will present The Economics of Natural and Nature Based Coastal Adaptation at the Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, in Greenland, New Hampshire. Dr. Robert Johnston of Clark University, his research team, and NOAA economist Pete Wiley will share the results of multiple projects that provide information on economic benefits and costs of coastal adaptation in New England, including results that characterize the effects of vulnerability and adaptation on property values across different New England states, as well as results that illustrate what adaptation outcomes provide the greatest value to coastal communities.

Plastic Pollution Summit - On March 30, the South Carolina Aquarium will present the 2017 Plastic Pollution Summit in Charleston. This community engagement summit will bring together leading experts, Aquarium Conservation Partnership collaborators, college students, community practitioners, and others from across the nation to generate solution-oriented discussions necessary to effectively address the most pressing plastic pollution challenges.

National Watershed and Stormwater Conference - On April 4, the Center for Watershed Protection will hold the 2017 National Watershed and Stormwater Conference. The conference will address cross-cutting issues and emerging trends in watershed management and implementation. Designed for practitioners, regulators, water and sewer authorities, and stormwater managers from the public, private, and nonprofit sector, the conference will include national sessions via internet, along with local hubs to encourage more in-depth discussion, and networking.

Boston Harbor and Islands Science Symposium—Save the Date - From April 11-12, the Boston Harbor Habitat Coalition and the National Parks of Boston will hold the Boston Harbor and Islands Science Symposium. The first day will feature field trips as well as an evening Science Cafe hosted by UMass Boston. The second day, to be held at Northeastern University's main campus in Boston, will feature panels, keynotes, lightning talks, posters, and concurrent presentations focused on "what we study" and "how we study" the Boston Harbor estuary and islands.

Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference - From April 12-13, the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission will hold the 28^th annual Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference in Northampton. This conference is the premier forum in the Northeast for sharing information and improving communication on nonpoint source pollution issues and projects.

Benthic Ecology Meeting - From April 12-16, the 46^th annual Benthic Ecology Meeting, Sustainable Oceans in Theory and Practice, will be held in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This meeting is one of the largest scientific meetings for marine biologists in the United States and has historically provided a venue for graduate and undergraduate students to present their work and interact with established researchers in areas of marine biology and ecology.

2017 Great Massachusetts Litter Cleanup - Keep Massachusetts Beautiful is seeking cleanup coordinators and volunteers for litter cleanups across the state this spring. Cleanup dates are flexible. For more information, visit the Keep Massachusetts Beautiful website or email [e-mail].

OneNOAA Science Seminars - The NOAA seminar series website provides listings and details on NOAA science and climate seminars and webinars that are available across the nation.

MACC Education - MACC offers a variety of specialized education programs. Visit the MACC workshops page to see an overview of upcoming wetland delineation and soil science courses and shrub identification workshops, along with the soil erosion and sediment-control training program. The MACC online education calendar provides a schedule of programs.

Walks, Lectures, and Events on Cape Cod - Mass Audubon’s Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary in Barnstable offer a variety of educational programs for children and adults. For more information, search the calendar of programs, classes, and activities for Wellfleet Bay and Long Pasture.

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary Programs and Activities - Mass Audubon’s Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary provides numerous nature walks, talks, and adventures. See the program catalog for event and schedule information.

Joppa Flats Wildlife Sanctuary Programs and Activities - Mass Audubon’s Joppa Flats Wildlife Sanctuary in Newburyport provides numerous birding walks, field trips, and adventures. See the program catalog for event and schedule information.

Cape Cod Bird Club Walks - The Cape Cod Bird Club holds free bird watching walks throughout Cape Cod. The next scheduled walk will be held on February 12 in Falmouth.

Birdwatching for Beginners - The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History’s Birdwatching for Beginners with Gretchen Moran Towers presents basic skills designed to enable bird identification through sight and sound. Each session is followed by an outdoor venture to view birds in their natural habitat. The next session is on February 23.

Tuesday Tweets - On several Tuesdays into April, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will hold Tuesday Tweets, bird watching walks with Gretchen Moran Towers. Whether experienced or a beginner, bring binoculars, wear appropriate footwear, and come prepared to watch, study, and enjoy birds in their natural habitats. The next session is on February 14.

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

• International LIDAR Mapping Forum - From February 13-15, the 2017 International LIDAR Mapping Forum will be held in Denver, Colorado. This three-day technical conference will feature sessions on coastal zone mapping and lessons learned, modern hydrographic techniques, single photon LIDAR, and more.
• Erosion and Sediment Control Conference - From February 21-24, the 2017 Environmental Connection Conference will be held in Atlanta, Georgia. Over four days, Environmental Connection provides peer-reviewed education and products and technology that address four educational tracks: erosion and sediment control, stormwater management, surface water restoration, and MS4 management.

Other Items of Interest

Environmental Education Awards - EEA is now accepting applications for the 2017 Secretary Awards for Excellence in Energy and Environmental Education. All K-12 Massachusetts schools are eligible for cash awards for outstanding environmental and energy education projects. Winners will be notified in April and invited to attend a formal award ceremony at the State House.

Gulf of Maine Council Award Nominations - The Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment is seeking nominations for its annual Visionary, Longard, Susan Snow-Cotter Leadership, Industry, and Sustainable Communities Awards. Visionary Awards will be presented to one individual and one organization in each state and province bordering the Gulf. The Longard Award will be presented to an outstanding volunteer within the Gulf watershed. The Susan Snow-Cotter Award will recognize a coastal management professional who exemplifies outstanding leadership or exceptional mentoring in the Gulf of Maine watershed. The Industry Award will go to a business that has shown leadership in efforts to improve the wellbeing of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem. The Sustainable Communities Award will go to a community or group within a community that exemplifies a sustainable environment and economy. Submit nomination forms by March 30 through the Council website.

EPA Environmental Merit Awards - EPA is seeking nominations for the 2017 Environmental Merit Awards in New England, which recognizes environmental achievements during the past year. Award categories are available for individuals, businesses, governmental entities, other organizations, and lifetime achievement. Awards winners will be invited to a May ceremony in Boston. Nominations are due by February 10.

Marine Policy Fellowships—Application Deadline Extended - The NOAA Sea Grant College Program is accepting applications for the 2017 John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship Program. This one-year program aims to provide a unique educational experience to students who have an interest in ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources and the national policy decisions affecting those resources. The program matches highly qualified graduate students with hosts in the legislative and executive branches, or appropriate associations/institutions, located in the area of Washington, DC, for a one-year paid fellowship. To apply, see the grant opportunity on Grants.gov. Applications are now due by February 21.

Groundwater Awareness Week Video Challenge - EPA is seeking entries for the first National Groundwater Awareness Week Video Challenge. EPA invites the public to create and submit a video that increases awareness and understanding about the importance of protecting and conserving groundwater. The winning videos will be posted on EPA’s website and recognized during National Groundwater Awareness Week from March 5-11. Submissions are due by February 24.

Science on a Sphere - NOAA has launched a new contest for K-12 and college students to design content for Science on a Sphere, a room sized, global display system that uses computers and video projectors to display planetary data onto a six-foot diameter sphere, analogous to a giant animated globe. NOAA invites entrants to create new maps, visualizations, and stories that help share NOAA’s mission in creative and innovative ways. Winners will receive a $250 gift certificate to be used on educational products, a certificate from NOAA, and have their work featured at the 2017 Science on a Sphere Users Collaborative Network workshop. For more information, see the contest website. Submissions are due March 17.

Septic Nitrogen Sensor Challenge - EPA, in collaboration with the U.S. Geological Survey and Nature Conservancy, has launched the Advanced Septic Nitrogen Sensor Challenge with a goal to identify and spur development of technologies that effectively measure nitrogen leaving a septic system. Current technologies for measuring nitrogen in effluent fall short due to sensitivity, cost, and robustness. Phase I of this challenge program focuses on gaining a better understanding of low cost sensor technology could detect and measure nitrate and ammonium, or total nitrogen in the effluent. If these initial ideas are successful, future phases of the Septic Challenge program will include prototype development and testing. Entries for this first phase are due by March 17.

Marine Art Contest - Massachusetts Marine Educators and Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary are seeking entries from students in grades K-12 for the 2017 Marine Art Contest. Drawings should be based on the theme, Exploring the Marine Biodiversity of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Winning entries will become part of a touring exhibition and receive cash prizes. Entries are due by April 28.

Summer of Maps - Summer of Maps is a fellowship program that matches nonprofit organizations that have spatial analysis needs with talented students pursuing careers in geospatial data analysis to complete projects over a three-month period during the summer. Applications for nonprofits are due by February 5 and student applications open on February 24 and are due by March 19.

Woods Hole Field Trips - The Zephyr Education Foundation’s Ocean Science and Technology Program hosts one-day college, high school, and middle school field trips in Woods Hole. Students participate in a hands-on scientific cruise on Vineyard Sound and are exposed to a sampling of the research activities, technology, facilities, and occupations at the laboratories in Woods Hole.

KidSummer - This summer, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History will offer KidSummer, which provides a range of programs for 3-15 year olds that encourages learning and appreciation of the environment through age-appropriate, STEM-based curriculum and indoor/outdoor activities led by educators/naturalists. Registration is available for weekly sessions (June 26-August 11) through the museum’s FamilyID website.