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„ <br /> Objective B: <br /> Increase public understanding of <br /> environmental issues and citizen involvement <br /> in environmental policy making. <br /> he Albemarle-Pamlico Estuarine Study has been the stimulus for <br /> a v-ariety of recent proposals and initiatives involving estuarine <br /> education, some of which already are in the planning stages. <br /> Continuing these initiatives would form the basis of a long-term <br /> program of public involvement and education. Providing informa- <br /> tion about economic and cultural issues as they relate to estuarine <br /> protection would be integral to this effort.Eco-tourism,the concept <br /> of using an area's natural resources as a draw for tourists, would • <br /> educate the public while attracting new sources of revenue. <br /> Develop an organizational framework that would foster <br /> public education and involvement in decision making on <br /> — estuarine issues by 1995. <br /> Explanation: Numerous advocacy groups in the Albe- ' • <br /> marle-Pamlico watershed have education programs <br /> thatfocus on a particular regional concern.No organi- <br /> zation is devoted solely to providing impartial informa- <br /> tion about estuarine ecology and the human activities <br /> that occur there.The recently established Partnership <br /> for the Sounds is envisioned as a lead organization for <br /> promoting environmental education and eco-tourism <br /> • <br /> in the region. Combining education and economic <br /> supportwould heighten commitment in the region for <br /> environmental protection. <br /> Create innovative environmental education opportuni- <br /> ties for adults,and for young people outside of school. <br /> Explanation: It is increasingly important for groups <br /> •••••'••••-• with different perspectives on environmental issues— <br /> regulated groups,regulators and the interested public <br /> • — to understand what each is doing to protect the <br /> estuarine system. More opportunities for education <br /> through the community colleges,state parks and other <br /> educational centers would increase awareness of and <br /> commitment to protecting the estuary. <br /> • <br /> •-• • • <br /> Produce and distribute on a regular and widespread basis <br /> information on estuarine ecology and management is- <br /> sues, including the cultural and economic aspects of the <br /> issues. <br /> Explanation: Effective efforts to educate citizens about <br /> the estuary require the widespread distribution of . ..• <br /> 32 <br />