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What is Coastal Management
The Alaska State Legislature created the Alaska Coastal Management Program (ACMP) in 1977. Although a voluntary state program, the ACMP provides the State of Alaska and its coastal communities important benefits authorized under the federal Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA). Specifically, projects that trigger a review under the ACMP must be found consistent with the statewide standards and the enforceable policies of a coastal district, such as the KIB. This requirement gives the state and coastal districts a powerful tool to influence federal decision making.
The first bill for a coastal management program in Alaska failed to pass the Legislature because it did not provide for a strong enough role for Alaska communities. The program that was finally passed in 1977 included a provision for the formation of coastal districts and development of local enforceable policies. The KIB participates in the ACMP as a coastal district. This gives the KIB a seat at the table for both state and federal decision-making for projects that affect coastal resources or uses.
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