Who We Are
The Coastal Training Program is a national initiative being implemented through the National Estuarine Research Reserve System. It's purpose is to help coastal managers gain a better understanding of environmental issues, science, and environmental regulations.
It is funded through NOAA's National Estuarine Reserves Division and implemented in the State of Washington by the Padilla Bay Reserve. Padilla Bay Reserve is part of Washington Department of Ecology's Shorelands and Environmental Assistance Program.
Although the Coastal Training program is coordinated and administered by Padilla Bay Reserve, it is based on a collaborative effort between several organizations and agencies. Representatives from the Department of Ecology, Washington Sea Grant, the WA State Department of Community Trade and Economic Development, and local shoreline planning representatives serve on an Advisory Group to oversee the program design and development.
After an initial market analysis survey to determine training gaps, the Coastal Training Program launched a comprehensive needs assessment survey of shoreline planners and coastal resource managers to determine priority topics. These topics were then further refined by several focus groups.