WASHINGTON— Today, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) applauded this release of the first ever Northeast Ocean Plan by the Northeast Regional Planning Body. The plan includes innovative new data on the environment, commercial fishing, maritime economy, and recreational use to help policymakers and local community leaders with conservation and economic growth policies. The new data can also be viewed here.

“Connecticut’s coastline is an ecological wonder and an economic powerhouse,” said Murphy. “When President Obama first called for more coordination on ocean conservation, New England was the first part of the country to step to the plate. Today’s plan is the result of our region’s leadership and forward-thinking. I encourage all residents to review the plan and its fascinating new data, and submit feedback on how we all can better protect the Long Island Sound and its shoreline for future generations.”

Established by Presidential Executive Order in 2010, the National Ocean Policy, called for the formation of nine regionally-focused boards to better manage the nation’s oceans and coasts. New England was the first region in the nation to launch a planning board. Connecticut residents interested in providing feedback on the Northeast Ocean Plan through the public comment process should visit: http://neoceanplanning.org/plan/.

Murphy is committed to protecting Long Island Sound and Connecticut’s coastline. He recently unveiled his Long Island Sound Investment Plan, which calls for $860 million in funding for federal programs that invest in Long Island Sound’s coastal habitats, coastal resilience, clean water and beaches, and fishing industry.