New Interest Groups created, please see Groups and get involved! More engagement forthcoming as they become officially launched.

For ALL current and NEW Sea Grant Extension folks: Fill out our Who's Who Database http://bit.ly/sccdwho

 

South Carolina Coastal Information Network

The South Carolina Coastal Information Network (SCCIN) emerged as a result of a number of coastal outreach institutions working in partnership to enhance coordination of the coastal community outreach efforts in South Carolina. This organized effort, led by the S.C. Sea Grant Extension Program, includes partners from federal and state agencies, regional government agencies, and private organizations seeking to coordinate and/or jointly deliver outreach programs that target coastal community constituents. The Network was officially formed in 2006 with the intention of fostering inter-agency communication, coordination, and cooperation, in order to avoid duplicative efforts, leverage scarce resources, and maximize training program benefits and expected outcomes. In February 2008 the SCCIN publicly launched a Web site, www.sccoastalinfo.org, with a coastal management-related resource portal, and a searchable calendar of outreach events for the eight coastal counties in South Carolina. Contributed by April Turner, South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium.

Vibrant coastal urban communities are where we live, work, and play with minimal impact on the diverse coastal environment that sustains us. In these communities, what we need most is nearby, and we get it mainly by walking, bicycling or mass transit. Strong local economies cushion global economic disruptions, but our ports remain critical links for regional and international trade and they support lively waterfronts as well. --John Jacob, Texas

Our cities and communities are built to withstand the strongest of storms.

Venice Beach, CA (pps.org)

We have ready access to diverse and rich coastal ecosystems that sustain us and that provide for recreation and enjoyment. --John Jacob

Vibrant rural coastal communities are very different from their urban counterparts. Here, residents and visitors alike seek solitude and natural amenities. They are supported by well-maintained infrastructure and careful stewardship of natural resources. Services that cities offer are close at hand. Because of their size and relative isolation, markets for jobs, basic necessities, and creative innovation are critical and should be carefully cultivated. Rural communities are more highly dependent upon local natural capital for extractive and non-extractive activities, therefore sustainability means that productivity and conservation are equally weighted in private and community decision-making. --Robert Emanuel, Oregon

Tillamook, OR (Courtesy of Tillamook Kayak)

What do you think sustainable coastal communities look like? Send your comments to John Jacob. We'll pull them all together and weave together a vision.