Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM) – Boston, MA

Protecting the Commonwealth’s Coast

The Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM) is the lead policy and planning agency on coastal and ocean issues within the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. Located at 100 Cambridge Street, CZM works to balance the protection of natural resources with the management of human activities along the state’s 1,500-mile coastline 🌊. The agency does not issue permits directly but provides technical assistance and policy guidance to ensure that development and activities are consistent with state coastal policies.

Key Programs and Initiatives

• StormSmart Coasts: This program helps coastal communities prepare for and recover from storms, floods, and sea-level rise by promoting resilience strategies and erosion control. ⛈️
• Ocean Management: CZM leads the implementation of the Massachusetts Ocean Management Plan, which governs the use of state ocean waters for projects like renewable energy, sand mining, and aquaculture.
• Port and Harbor Planning: The office assists municipalities in developing harbor plans to support working waterfronts, public access, and maritime industries ⚓.
• Water Quality: CZM implements the Coastal Pollutant Remediation Grant program to address runoff and improve nearshore water quality.

Resources for the Public

CZM produces the ‘Coast Guide Online’, an interactive mapping tool that helps the public discover over 1,000 coastal access sites, from beaches to boat ramps. 🗺️ The office also coordinates the COASTSWEEP beach cleanup program, mobilizing volunteers to remove marine debris. Visitors to the Boston office typically include municipal officials, environmental consultants, and researchers collaborating on coastal projects. The facility is fully accessible and located near the Government Center transportation hub.