OCEAN CITY – In
recognition of World Ocean Day, state officials this week launched Maryland’s
Coastal Atlas, an interactive online mapping and planning tool allowing public
and private interests to explore coastal areas around the state including
Worcester County’s shoreline and the waters off the coast of Ocean City.
The atlas provides
direct access to available information needed for coastal and ocean planning
efforts. The interactive online tool allows users to explore natural, man-made,
biological and geophysical resources in around the state’s waterways and
coastlines as well as the waters several miles off the state’s Atlantic coast.
The coastal atlas allows
users to visually analyze and explore data for coastal and ocean planning
activities such as seeking the best opportunities for renewable energy
projects, locating sand sources for ongoing beach replenishment or helping
local communities such as Worcester County and Ocean City identify areas vulnerable
to sea level rise and coastal erosion.
The on-line coastal
atlas identifies environmentally sensitive areas such as bird nesting areas and
other wildlife habitats. It also identifies recreational opportunities for
activities such as fishing and diving.