NOAA today announced that it is seeking nominations by Tuesday, Jan. 17 from individuals interested in serving on the newly-established Marine and Coastal Area-based Management Advisory Committee.
The Committee will include up to 20 non-federal voting members and advise the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere on science-based approaches to area-based protection, conservation, restoration, and management in coastal and marine areas, including the Great Lakes. The Committee’s scope of advice will include but not be limited to the “America the Beautiful” 30×30 conservation initiative, with NOAA noting that the Committee will provide a forum for discussion of opportunities to enhance conservation of biodiversity, promote climate resilience, and expand access to nature for underserved communities.
Membership will include individuals representing the following interests: coastal, marine, and Great Lakes resource managers; indigenous communities; NGOs; youth-serving organizations, education, and outreach interests; environmental justice organizations; affected interest groups like offshore minerals, energy, marine transportation, recreational and commercial fishing, boating, diving, and tourism; and scientists and other experts.
For continuity purposes, initial members will be appointed to 2- and 4-year terms (50/50), with members thereafter appointed to nonrenewable 4-year terms. The Committee is expected to meet at least once annually.
