Donald
L. Carcieri Former
Governor J. Joseph Garrahy James
Boyd
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The
Governor's
Narragansett Bay and Watershed
Planning Commission
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Problem: Agencies and organizations that work on Bay and watershed issues are not linked by a clear and unified “vision,” an agreed-upon set of common goals or a mechanism by which they can effectively work together to produce solutions. Bay planning is the answer. Purpose: Develop a plan for the Bay and the watershed areas that incorporates environmental protection and restoration, sustainability, economic development, and socially equitable use of the resources. The plan must be a collaborative effort based on the fundamental premise that the Bay is inextricably linked to the environmental and economic health of Rhode Island as well as recognizing that protecting and enhancing the Bay as a resource is watershed based. Structure: The Commission will operate in an open and collaborative fashion. Members of the public will be invited to actively engage the process. The Commission itself will include representatives from all of the major stakeholders, including non-profits, academic institutions, industry and business organizations, commercial and recreational fishing, local government, legislative leaders, federal agencies, state agencies, and public advocacy groups. This membership is similar to that of the Partnership for Narragansett Bay (PNB), which was created to collect and consolidate data on the Bay as well as taking the first steps to develop a decision-making framework. This project was funded by a $100,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Development (HUD) secured by Senator Chafee. A Steering Committee consisting of key state agencies with jurisdiction over the Bay and Save the Bay will provide staffing and set the agenda. The Governor will appoint a Chairperson to the Commission, who will also chair the Steering Committee. The Coastal Institute at URI will host the Commission and facilitate the dialogue between stakeholders. The Governor will provide initial funding for a staff person until alternative sources, such as grant monies, are secured.
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Executive Order Creating Commission Phase 1 Report & Governor Carcieri's Response
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