Delaware Coastal Programs

Delaware Coastal Programs

The Delaware Coastal Programs (DCP) is a cooperative program between the State of Delaware and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The DCP helps manage Delaware’s federal coastal zone and balance the use and protection of its resources through the combined efforts of the Delaware Coastal Management Program and Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve.

The Delaware Coastal Management Program works to protect, develop, and where possible enhance the coastal resources of the State through the implementation of the federal consistency program, coastal and ocean resource planning, and by providing technical and financial assistance to address coastal management issues.

The Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve serves to preserve and manage the natural resources within the Reserve as a place for research, provide education and outreach programs that promote better understanding of Delaware’s estuarine and coastal areas, and promote informed coastal decision-making.