Coastal & Watershed Resources Advisory Committee (CWRAC)

CWRAC, established in 1976, is an advisory committee comprised of representatives of local government, concerned local citizens, special interest groups, state and federal agencies and academic institutions. Located administratively under the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, CWRAC acts as an independent advisory body to the Secretary of Natural Resources and to Maryland's Coastal Program on policy issues affecting the coastal areas of Maryland. Funding is provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration under the Coastal Zone Management grant.

Each CWRAC member represents one clearly defined constituency and acts on their behalf in the activities of the Committee. Members come to CWRAC with a clear understanding of the opinions and priorities of their constituency as they relate to the policies and issues before the Committee. Information received and actions taken by the Committee are reported back to member agencies or organizationsby CWRAC members.

For more information on CWRAC, contact Joe Abe, jabe@dnr.state.md.us or call 410-260-8740.

To find the meeting dates, times and location for the Advisory Committee, please use the DNR Online Calendar and use keyword search on "CWRAC" or "Coastal and Watershed Resources Advisory Committee."

In Focus

Coastal Communities Exchange

On Friday, September 16, fifty-five participants representing local, state and federal governments, universities, consultants, and nonprofit organizations attended this interactive workshop at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, Maryland. The purpose of the Coastal Communities Exchange was to serve as a venue to highlight projects completed or underway in Maryland's coastal zone (many of those supported by CCP funding made possible through NOAA grants); to share ideas and lessons learned; to discuss best practices; and to share products and outcomes that might be applicable to - or replicable in - other coastal communities. Click here to learn more.