Bill > H897

This bill establishes a comprehensive approach to addressing ocean and coastal acidification in Massachusetts by creating an Ocean Acidification Council comprised of 11 members from government agencies and public sectors. The council will be responsible for understanding and combating acidification through coordinated monitoring efforts, data collection, and research, with a specific focus on identifying and mitigating coastal stressors like nutrient pollution and eutrophication. The bill defines key terms such as coastal acidification, coastal waters, and eutrophication, and mandates the creation of an Ocean Acidification Fund to support research, habitat restoration, and infrastructure improvements. Additionally, the bill designates the third full week in August as Ocean Acidification Awareness Week to promote public engagement and citizen science initiatives. The council will conduct comprehensive studies on the impacts of acidification on marine species, economic consequences, and develop adaptive strategies for industries like shellfishing, with a commitment to using nature-based solutions and cutting-edge monitoring technologies to track and model long-term pH changes in coastal waters.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H897