III Characterization and Problem Definition 23 



Setting the Course 23 



Scientific Characterization 24 



Characterization Steps 25 



Identification and Ranking of Priority 



Problems for Study 25 



Collection of Priority Data Sets 27 



Identification of Data fvlanagement Support .... 28 



Screening Priority Data Sets 29 



Estuary Segmentation 29 



Data Analysis 30 



Consideration of Incomplete Data 33 



Reporting of Results 35 



Evaluation of Institutional and Management Programs 36 



Characterization Report 37 



IV The Comprehensive Conservation and Management 

 Plan 39 



A Blueprint for Action 39 



Developing a Comprehensive Conservation and 



Management Plan 39 



Components of a Comprehensive Conservation and 



Management Plan 40 



A Summary of the Characterization Findings .... 41 



Priority Problems Addressed in the CCMP 42 



Environmental Quality Goals and Objectives for 



the Estuary 44 



Setting Goals 44 



Setting Objectives 45 



Action Plans for Controlling Pollution and Managing 



Resources 45 



Approaches to Action 47 



Controlling Point and Nonpoint Sources 47 



Protecting Living Resources 48 



Protecting Land and Water Resources 51 



Controlling Pollutants 53 



V Implementing the CCMP 55 



Funding 55 



A Plan for Public Information and Involvement .... 55 



Program Integration and Coordination 56 



Periodic Review, Evaluation, and Redirection .... 57 



Establishing a Monitoring Program 57 



Providing for Research 57 



Modifying the CCMP 58 



Implementation 58 



APPENDIXES 



A. Federal Financial Assistance Under the National Estuary 

 Program 



B. Building an Effective Public Participation Program 



C. Using Finfish as Indicators of Toxic Contamination 



D. Summary of the Guidance Manual for Health Risk 

 Assessment for Consumption of Chemically 

 Contaminated Fish and Shellfish 



E. Alternative Financing 



F. Citizen Monitoring 



