CSO applauds the bipartisan reintroduction of the Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act (H.R.2786) by Representatives Levin (D-CA), Mast (R-FL), Bonamici (D-OR) and Kiggans (R-VA). This legislation would reauthorize and update the Coastal and Estuarine Resilience and Restoration Program (known under current law as the Coastal and Estuarine Land Conversation Program (CELCP)) and National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS).
The updated Coastal and Estuarine Resilience and Restoration Program would allow state and local governments, as well as non-profit organizations, to purchase threatened coastal and estuarine lands that are of ecological importance or other conservation values. Since 2002 more than 110,000 acres have been protected under the existing CELCP program. The bill also reauthorizes funding for this program at $60 million annually. Additionally, the bill updates key program elements of the NERRS, including around data collection and monitoring, and authorizes the designation of additional NERRS in the coming years.
“We welcome the reintroduction of the Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act which reauthorizes critical programs that will increase conservation of coastal land, improve estuarine data and research, and provide more public access and recreational opportunities in an era of massive coastal change. By balancing the protection, conservation, responsible use, and sustainable economic development of America’s coasts and ensuring every state can manage its own coastal zone, coastal communities and habitats can thrive into the future.” said Derek Brockbank, Executive Director of Coastal States Organization.
The protection of coastal lands and estuaries promotes resilience by conserving, enhancing or restoring the ecological function of these areas. This provides a natural solution to help mitigate the impacts of hazards faced by coastal communities, such as flooding and extreme weather events. Furthermore, these areas can provide critical habitat for local species, while increasing public access allows community members the opportunity to connect and interact with their coast in new ways and participate in recreational activities.
