Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID 2008DE127B

Delaware Coastal Zone Act: Impact on Water Quality

Institute: Delaware
Year Established: 2008 Start Date: 2008-03-01 End Date: 2009-02-28
Total Federal Funds: $1,750 Total Non-Federal Funds: $3,500

Principal Investigators: Erin McVey, Steven Hastings

Abstract: The Coastal Zone Act was passed in June 28, 1971 by Governor Russell Peterson. It was recognized that Delawares coastal areas must be kept up in order to maintain and improve the quality of life in and around those areas. This meant that new industrialization must be limited and controlled. Specifically, heavy industry not in existence in the coastal areas before June 28, 1971 became prohibited and permits could not be acquired. By doing this, the natural environment would be kept and used for aesthetic, recreational, and tourism purposes. At the time, this law was assailed by the pro-business community and hailed as a victory by environmental groups. The objectives of the research are to investigate the long-term impacts of the Coastal Zone Act on Delaware. First, the specifics of the Act will be documented. Second, comparisons with similar legislation in other similar coastal states will be made. Third, the research will attempt to determine the effects of the Coastal Zone Act on the economic development and the environment, with special attention to water resources, in the parts of Delaware included in the Act.