Thanks to the work of MassBays and partners who served on the communications subcommittee, the 2026 MassBays Communications Plan has been approved by EPA Headquarters. As a priority of the MassBays NEP 2023 CCMP, the development of a strategic Communications Plan will work to broaden awareness of the unique role of MassBays in the universe of other actors in the coastal management community. Implementation of the CCMP requires informed, engaged, and empowered partners that contribute collectively to shared goals.

MassBays will build on its experience as a neutral convener by delivering on the 2026 Communications Plan to prioritize and focus engagement and communication in support of its mission to protect, restore, and enhance the estuarine resources of its study area. In particular, the 2026 Communications Plan will guide MassBays in its efforts to implement the goals of the CCMP, communicate environmental conditions and trends in the Bays to different audiences (e.g., decision makers, municipalities, the public, legislators), and streamline its outreach and engagement process with constituents and partners to improve the health of our estuaries.

Read the full MassBays 2026 Communications Plan here.