The Oceans Act of 2008

On May 28, 2008, Governor Deval Patrick signed landmark legislation specifically crafted to improve management of the vital ocean ecosystems that are so critical to Massachusetts’ maritime heritage and economic viability. The Commonwealth’s first-in-the-nation, statewide comprehensive ocean planning law mandated the development of an integrated ocean management plan for Massachusetts’ state waters by December 31, 2009.  What made the “Oceans Act” unique was that it required a balancing among uses –including offshore renewable energy development, fishing, maritime shipping, recreation, conservation and others– through consideration of stakeholder needs and scientific principles.

The Massachusetts Ocean Partnership (MOP) was established to support just this kind of endeavor—we have been honored to collaborate with the State and our other partners for this pioneering undertaking.  As an independent public-private partnership among government, industry, conservation and scientific interests, MOP brought (and continues to bring) resources and technical assistance to advance coastal and marine spatial planning.

MOP was delighted to support the state’s and broader partnership needs through our role as a convener of and credible broker among diverse ocean interests and by improving the integration of natural and social science into the Final MA Ocean Plan (released on January 4, 2010).

MOP enthusiastically assisted the Commonwealth and our Partners in developing an ocean management plan that aims to:

  • Integrate management across sectors, ecosystem resources, and agencies;
  • Incorporate credible scientific information;
  • Reflect public input and gain support of major affected groups;
  • Adapt to changing conditions; and, ultimately to
  • Support thriving, sustainable marine industries and healthy ocean ecosystems.

A diverse array of organizations, agencies and associations have partnered with MOP and, as we transition into Plan implementation, we look forward to reaching out to additional groups with ocean interests.   If you have any comments, questions, or would like further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

The Oceans Act of 2008:

Link to the Oceans Act of 2008: http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/seslaw08/sl080114.htm