Coastal and Watershed Resources Advisory Committee (CWRAC) Celebrates 30th Anniversary

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Coastal and Watershed Resources Advisory Committee (CWRAC) Celebrates 30th Anniversary
ANNAPOLIS — The Maryland Coastal Program is pleased to announce that the Coastal and Watershed Resources Advisory Committee (CWRAC), considered to be the longest standing advisory committee serving a State Coastal Program, is celebrating its 30th anniversary. To commemorate this milestone, DNR Deputy Secretary Ronald Guns presented a Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of Secretary Ronald Franks to CWRAC Chairman Richard Robinson at the Committee’s December 8 meeting held at the Podickory Point Yacht & Beach Club.
Since 1976, CWRAC has served a unique and invaluable role in managing the State’s coast. The diversified membership on the committee allows for informed discussion of coastal issues often leading to integral input into state programs and policies. This membership includes concerned citizens, representatives of business, civic and conservation groups and local government agencies. CWRAC advises the Secretary of Natural Resources on Coastal Zone Management Program (CZMP) policy issues and is the primary organization that citizens may use to voice their ideas and opinions about coastal resources management. CWRAC’s advisory responsibilities include:

Review proposed federal and state legislation affecting the coast and make policy recommendations;

Inform the CZMP of proposed projects, plans and issues which may need to be reviewed;

Review and make recommendations on annual coastal program initiatives and budget priorities;

Recommend changes to State policies and procedures addressing coastal resources; and

Use standing subcommittees to assist membership in addressing coastal management issues.

December 18, 2006
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 449,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland's forests, fisheries and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic and cultural resources attract 12 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland's effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state's number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov