Contributed papers.

Written in response to the increasing interest in the making of ocean policy, this collection of original articles surveys the history of U.S. ocean policy, ocean policy advocacy, and the struggle within government to determine how best to develop and implement a sensible ocean policy. The increasing complexity of the issues, programs, and policies related to marine and coastal zone matters and the increasing number of government agencies and interest groups formed to deal with these matters reflect the growing awareness of their importance. But, reflect the editors, in an enormously complex world, where many interests are in conflict and where information is tentative and incomplete—yet often overwhelmingly abundant—there are few easy solutions to ocean policy problems.

Coastal Zone Management Handbook comprises the first complete manual on coastal resource planning and management technology. Written by an international consultant, this handbook reflects a global perspective on the natural resources, sensitivities, economics, development, productivity, and diversity of coastal zones. The emphasis is on tropical and subtropical coastal ecosystems, but the information is widely applicable. In addition to its comprehensive coverage of general concepts related to coastal regions, the book describes the strategic basis for coastal management, provides a set of working tools for management and planning activities, and presents case histories of management projects around the globe. Extensive references are provided for each management analysis, practice, technique, and solution. Coastal Zone Management Handbook is made up of four sections:

This book assesses the dimensions of our scientific knowledge as it applies to environmental problems in the coastal zone. The volume contains 10 papers that cover different aspects of science, management, and public policy concerning the coastal zone. A consensus is presented on several key issues confronting science for developing a more holistic approach in managing this region's intense human activities and important natural resources.

This book summarizes three symposia that were convened in the California, Gulf of Maine, and Gulf of Mexico regions to seek new ways to improve the use of science in coastal policymaking. The book recommends actions that could be taken by federal and state agencies and legislatures, local authorities, scientists, universities, the media, nongovernmental organizations, and the public to yield better coastal decisions and policies. It is unique in that it resulted from a partnership among natural scientists, social scientists, and policymakers.