Virginia CZM Program and Land Conservation
Land Conservation NEWS:
James Taylor Voices His Support for Migratory Birds
When James Taylor performs at the Verizon Wireless Virginia Beach Amphitheater on May 22, he will be singing for the birds. A portion of the proceeds from the concert will go to the Southern Tip Partnership to protect migratory bird stopover habitat on the southern tip of Virginia’s Eastern Shore. The Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program at the Department of Environmental Quality is a member of the partnership which includes the Virginia Departments of Conservation & Recreation and Game & Inland Fisheries, The Nature Conservancy and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Together they have protected and continue to manage more than 28,000 acres of land in the area. (Photo: © Dan Borris)
In April 2006, Governor Kaine announced his administration's goal of permanently protecting 400,000 acres of
land in Virginia by 2010.
How is the Coastal Zone Management Program helping with land conservation?
Protecting Coastal Areas through Land Acquisition:
CZMA Funding
Since 1991, Virginia CZM Program funds have been used to acquire over 2,323 acres.
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CELCP Funding
Since 2002, the Virginia CZM Program has received about $8 million in federal CELCP Funds from NOAA to conserve over 300 acres of prime natural area.
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Developing Management Tools to Conserve Coastal Lands:
Public Access Authorities 
In 2002, the Virginia General Assembly approved the first regional public access authority in the Middle Peninsula and one quickly followed
in the Northern Neck. With support from the Virginia CZM Program, this PAA is helping meet the Governor's goal.
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Land Conservation Partnership Agreements
Acquiring and managing lands on a large scale is much easier with partners. A formal partnership such as the "Southern Tip" MOU on Virginia's Eastern Shore is a great example.
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Mapping Important Areas
The Virginia CZM Program is prioritizing which lands we deem important for maintaining the health of our coastal ecosystems. Where are Virginia's most important land and water resources? Read more...
