Virginia boasts more than 5,000 miles of shorelines and the Virginia Coastal Zone Management (CZM) Program works every day to protect our coastal resources and the industries and livelihoods that depend upon them. The Program's goals are outlined below. 

DEQ serves as the lead agency for the Virginia CZM network of state agencies and coastal localities, and houses the Virginia CZM Program office in Richmond. DEQ helps develop coordinated policies and the network implements the enforceable laws, regulations and policies that protect our coastal resources and foster sustainable development across Virginia’s coastal zone. A Coastal Policy Team consists of representatives from each of the agencies and coastal Planning District Commissions (PDCs) to discuss and resolve crosscutting coastal resource management issues. 

To accomplish its goals, the Virginia CZM office administers an annual grant award of approximately $3 million from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Ocean Service, Office for Coastal Management, through the federal Coastal Zone Management Act.

Help Celebrate 50 Years of Coastal Zone Management

The diversity of our ocean and coasts is as great as its people. They provide places to live, work, and play, drive our nation’s economy, and support a wealth of biodiversity. They are an integral part of our national heritage and character.

50 years ago, Congress enacted banner legislation designed to “preserve, protect, develop, and where possible, to restore or enhance the resources of the nation’s coastal zone.” This legislation - the Coastal Zone Management Act - shaped our past 50 years and will continue to shape the future.

But that’s not enough - your help is also needed. Help us raise awareness about all our ocean and coasts do for us and practice the 50 ways (and more!) you can love your ocean and coast.

50 ways to love your Ocean and Coasts video