A robust coastal economy depends on and reinvests in environmental protection and restoration. The Coastal Federation is working with federal, state, and local leaders, economic developers, private businesses, and coastal residents to create and implement an economic development strategy for the coast that also protects and restores coastal resources. Investment in coastal restoration creates short-term and long-term jobs, boosts fisheries, and ensures a clean environment that benefits the tourism industry. State investment in this strategy is critical in order to secure competitive federal funding that will help stimulate economic growth.
Our staff developed a draft comprehensive strategic blueprint to explain how programs and projects that protect coastal resources also strengthen economic growth along the coast. Growing the oyster industry will continue to be a priority, as the success of that industry benefits fishermen, and contractors involved with environmental restoration projects, tourism, and related service industries.
