A series of online meetings is planned to gather public feedback on developing the priorities and goals for the proposed Connecticut National Estuarine Research Reserve. 

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Estuarine Research Reserve System is a “network of 29 sites” that “protects and conserves more than 1.3 million acres of coastal and estuarine habitat and is managed by a partnership between NOAA and coastal states,” according to a fact sheet, which points out that “Connecticut is one of only two saltwater coastal states without a national estuarine research reserve.”

“This research reserve would also positively affect the health of Long Island Sound’s ecosystem and economy, and support local communities, by helping to preserve an area for use, study, and appreciation by future generations,” it continues.

The schedule is as follows, with all meetings held from 2:30 to 5 p.m.:

• Wednesday, Feb. 17: Coastal Training Program

• Friday, Feb. 19: Research & Monitoring Program

• Wednesday, Feb. 24: Education Program

• Friday, Feb. 26: Stewardship, Resource Management, Visitor Access/Uses

• Wednesday, March 3: Partnerships: Friends group, NERR Advisory Board

• Friday, March 5: Administration Plan, Volunteer Plan, Communication Plan

• Wednesday, March 10: Facilities and Properties Development and Improvement Plan

• Friday, Mar 12: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice

More information is available, under the "Status Update" section, at: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Coastal-Resources/NERR/NERR-Home-Page.