Abstract: The Illinois Coastal Management Program (CMP) was established in 2012 as part of the National Coastal Zone Management Program, administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Since its inception, the ethos of CMP has been to identify and work towards objectives that protect the natural environments and serve the economic, social and recreational needs of our communities, with a focus on equity and inclusivity. CMP has initiated partnerships and projects that exemplify this important balancing act. Of particular interest, Ms. Bayers will highlight strategic partnerships and projects that are helping address the damage affecting habitats, economies and communities due to high lake levels, shoreline erosion and storm damage. An important component of addressing coastal needs is also building the knowledge base and increasing community capacity to address coastal-related issues. This seminar will provide a foundational understanding of Illinois’ Coastal Management Program, how we work, and examples of our activities.
Biography: Ania Bayers has worked for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) since 2012, when she joined the newly established Coastal Management Program (CMP) as a Coordinator. From the beginning she has been involved in helping to develop program direction and has led and supported numerous projects focused on community planning and coordination, tourism, education, coastal resilience, and habitat management, among others. In her current role as a Manager, Ania supports program development and implementation; coordination with federal agencies, overall program administration, and provides guidance on project direction and implementation. Ania received her Bachelor’s in biology from University of Illinois at Chicago and her Master’s in conservation from University of Michigan.
The Illinois Coastal Management Program (CMP) is a federal-state partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to implement the Coastal Zone Management Act in Illinois through annual funding and technical support from NOAA. This program was officially approved for Illinois in 2012. The Program also receives funding and works closely with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) to implement the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and Great Lake Water Quality Agreement in Illinois. CMP receives annual capacity funding to support key priorities of the agreement and other Great Lakes initiatives. The current program portfolio includes coastal resilience; shoreline management; water quality and green infrastructure; recreational access and amenities; habitat protection and improvement; and coastal education.
This webinar is a certified green event by the University of Illinois' University of Illinois' Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment.
