Mission: The Wisconsin Coastal Management Program (WCMP) is dedicated to preserving and improving access to the natural and historic resources of Wisconsin's Great Lakes coasts. Since 1978, the program has worked cooperatively with state, local and tribal government agencies and non-profit organizations to manage the ecological, economic and aesthetic assets of the Great Lakes and their coastal areas.

The WCMP's goals are:

1. To improve the implementation and enforcement of existing state regulatory and management policies and programs.

2. To improve the coordination of existing policies and activities of governmental units and planning agencies for key coastal uses and areas.

3. To strengthen local governmental capabilities to initiate and continue effective coastal management consistent with state standards.

4. To advocate for the sustainable use of the coastal environment and the recognition of the uniqueness of the coastal environment in federal, state, and local policies.

5. To increase public awareness and opportunity for citizens to participate in decisions affecting the Great Lakes resources.

A keystone of the WCMP is the administration of grants to state, and community partners funding a wide range of projects. In 2013 the WCMP awarded $1.4 million in grants for 34 coastal projects across the state. These grants are being used to protect and improve the natural resources, support the quality of life and foster economic development in those areas.

The Wisconsin Coastal Management Council sets the policy direction for the program. The Governor appoints the broad-based council to represent state agencies, local governments, the general public, and Indian tribes with an interest in coastal issues. The WCMP is housed within the WI Dept. of Administration's Division of Intergovernmental Relations. The WCMP staffs the Council and administers the program.

The WCMP website is very user-friendly and comprehensive, including information on:

1. The grant program and application process

2. Publications

3. Guides and Fact Sheets

4. Advisory Council

5. Other partners and programs

For more information on previously funded projects and their impacts the WCMP publishes a newsletter, the Wisconsin Chronicle. This newsletter has been published annually since 2002. The WCMP is currently oversaw by Program Manager, Mike Friis.