Delaware Coastal Programs

The mission of the Delaware Coastal Programs Section is to preserve, protect, develop and enhance the resources of our state’s coastal zone through effective administration of the Delaware Coastal Management Program and the Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve.

The Delaware Coastal Management Program (DCMP) is designed to protect, develop, and where possible, enhance the coastal resources of the state. Specifically, DCMP:

• Manages coastal resources through innovative research projects, education and grant programs, and policy development 
• Administers the Coastal Zone Federal Consistency Certification program
• Provides special area management planning
• Provides assistance to state and local governments for local land use planning
• Offers other special on-the-ground projects related to Delaware's coastal resources
• Offers technical assistance to communities interested in restoring open space as natural habitat

The Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve (DNERR) is one of 27 National Estuarine Research Reserves across the country. Our mission is to preserve and manage the natural resources within the Reserve as a place for research, to provide education and outreach programs that promote better understanding of Delaware’s estuarine and coastal areas, and to promote informed coastal decision-making.

The Delaware Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program (CELCP) is a land acquisition program funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.  It provides grants to eligible state agencies and local governments to acquire property or conservation easements from willing sellers within a state's coastal zone or coastal watershed boundary.