Improvements to state and territory coastal management programs are encouraged through this program. The focus is on nine enhancement areas: wetlands, coastal hazards, public access, marine debris, cumulative and secondary impacts, special area management plans, ocean and Great Lakes resources, energy and government facility siting, and aquaculture. The program was established in 1990 under Section 309 of the Coastal Zone Management Act.

Every five years, states and territories review their programs to identify priority needs and opportunities for improvement. The programs then work with NOAA to develop multi-year improvement strategies that focus on one or more of the priority enhancement goals.

Projects of Special Merit

NOAA administers the annual Projects of Special Merit (PSM) competition to support innovative projects that further support state and territories’ Section 309 Strategies.

• PSM Funding Competition Frequently Asked Questions

More Information

• Section 309 of the Coastal Zone Management Act
• Section 309 Coastal Zone Enhancement Grants Regulations
• Coastal Zone Management Act Section 309 Guidance (2026-2030)

For more information, contact us.

• About the National Program
• Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
• Coastal Management Fellowship
• Coastal Zone Management Act
• Evaluations
• National Program Funding Summary
• National Program Publications
• Performance Measures
• Program Change Website
• Program Guidance
• Regulations
• States and Territories