What We Do

The EPA National Estuary Program (NEP) is a unique and voluntary program established in 1987 under the Clean Water Act Amendment (CWA). A successful ecosystem-based management program, it works to restore and maintain the water quality and ecological integrity of estuaries of national significance.

To achieve these goals, NEPs involve community members and other key partners to develop and implement a management plan. Citizens are fully engaged throughout this process to ensure that local needs are addressed in a Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP). The CCMP contains specific actions to apply CWA programs in a way that fully supports these local priorities.

The 28 NEPs across the country have demonstrated an impressive ability to secure and leverage funds, protect and restore coastal habitats, and broaden public understanding of estuaries. NEPs have also made substantial gains in identifying environmental challenges and tackling complex water quality and ecosystem issues.

The NEP looks broadly across the watershed and recognizes the connection between upstream sources of pollution and downstream impacts. It offers an effective means of securing commitments necessary to achieve tangible environmental results.

If you live, work, play, or travel in Coastal Alabama, you have a vested interest in the work we do.

For a snapshot of more of MBNEP’s work for Coastal Alabama, visit our Accomplishments page.