What is the
Coastal Zone Management Program?
The U.S. Congress passed the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) in 1972. The CZMA encouraged coastal states to develop, implement and enforce management program that achieve the wise use of coastal resources. Unlike other national environmental laws, participation in the federal Coastal Zone Management Program is voluntary. To encourage state participation, incentives include grant programs and expanded state powers in coastal areas. Since of 60% of Alaska’s land is in federal ownership, the opportunity to influence federal decision-making was a powerful incentive for the Alaska. In 1977, the state passed the Alaska Coastal Management Act.
Like the national CZMA, Alaska’s Coastal Management Program is voluntary. Rather than develop a separate permit process, Alaska developed a networked program that relies on the existing regulatory authority of state agencies and coastal districts. The coordinating agency for this networked program is the Office of Project Management and Permitting in the Alaska Department of Natural Resources.
There are 35 eligible coastal districts in the state. As an incentive to participate, the State of Alaska passes federal grants funds to the coastal districts that participate in project reviews and state permit decisions. Each district develops coastal policies to further define and protect resource values that are unique to their area. After approval by the state and federal agencies the district policies become an enforceable component of the Alaska Coastal management Program and have the same status as the statewide standards. In addition to a seat at the table in state and federal actions, the program may also be used to help guide local land management and permit decisions.