Ocean policy initiatives in coastal states: North Carolina's experience

Abstract

Abstract In the last decade several coastal states in the United States have made initiatives in the area of ocean policy and management. These initiatives have been tempered by the particular physical, socioeconomic, and political circumstances of each state. This article recounts the recent history of ocean policy initiatives in North Carolina, and identifies the significant milestones in the development of North Carolina's ocean policy and the circumstances that led to the achievement of these milestones. Finally, comments are made on the relevance of North Carolina's experience to other coastal states.