Modifying the CCMP 



Implementation 



Because the CCMP is a flexible managennent tool, it permits an 

 estuary program to adapt to changing circumstances and to apply 

 the lessons learned by experience. Some CCMP actions may be 

 unsuccessful. New data may reveal unforeseen problems. Earlier 

 assumptions may have been incorrect, and technological advance 

 may enhance cleanup capabilities. The resolution of some 

 problems will free resources to tackle others. 



Furthermore, even though the CCMP is a document reflecting 

 consensus, conflicts among jurisdictions, agencies at various 

 governmental levels, and the public are inevitable. These will need 

 to be resolved, possibly by modifying the plan. 



Scientific evidence and public backing are vital for estuary restora- 

 tion and protection. Developing a comprehensive series of actions 

 aimed at cleanup is also essential. But it takes money and political 

 will to make cleanup and preservation a reality. As part of the 

 CCMP, the Management Conference ensures that funding sources 

 are identified and that participating parties commit their moral 

 support, political muscle, and financial resources to implementa- 

 tion. Agreements to this effect are required. The Administrator's 

 approval and the governor's concurrence lend additional impor- 

 tance to the CCMP. Funds authorized under the Act, along with 

 state and local resources, further support CCMP implementation. 



Implementation has been a recurrent theme throughout the primer. 

 Action plans are essentially implementation activities, and may be 

 initiated before the CCMP receives formal approval. In such cases, 

 funding may come from the National Estuary Program, from 

 Management Conference participants, or other sources. 



Implementation of some CCMP activities will certainly take longer 

 than the five years the Water Quality Act allocates for a Manage- 

 ment Conference. Therefore, the Act provides that the Manage- 

 ment Conference may be extended or reconvened to oversee 

 implementation, redress problems, and address additional con- 

 cerns. In reality, it may take decades to restore and maintain those 

 unique and fragile resources: the nation's estuaries. 



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