The Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) is authorized under the federal Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 to develop and implement Special Area Management Plans (SAMPs) to address specific regional issues. These plans are ecosystem-based management strategies that are consistent with the council's legislative mandate to preserve and restore ecological systems. The CRMC coordinates with local municipalities, as well as government agencies and community organizations, to prepare the SAMPs and implement the management strategies.