RICRMP: Rhode Island Ocean Special Area Management Plan (Ocean SAMP)

Regulation Authority:

RIGL 46-23 et seq

Purpose and Reason:

The purpose of the Ocean Special Area Management Plan (Ocean SAMP) is to serve as a regulatory, planning and adaptive management tool of the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) to uphold its regulatory responsibilities. Using the best available science and working with well-informed and committed resource users, researchers, environmental and civic organizations, and local, state and federal government agencies, the Ocean SAMP provides a comprehensive understanding of this complex and rich ecosystem. The Ocean SAMP also documents how the people of Rhode Island have used and depended upon these offshore resources for subsistence, work, and play. It also documents important natural wildlife, fish, birds, marine mammals and sea turtles, their habitats and areas important to their survival. To fulfill the Council’s mandate, the Ocean SAMP lays out enforceable policies and recommendations to guide CRMC in promoting a balanced and comprehensive ecosystem-based management approach to the development and protection of Rhode Island’s ocean-based resources within the state waters of the Ocean SAMP study area.