February 18, 2019 | Preservation

Chamber Backs Efforts to Protect Our Sound

Cape Cod Times Letter to the Editor: “Chamber backs efforts to protect our sound” February 18, 2019 –

Your Feb. 9 editorial, “Sound thinking,” shows the need for tenacity and determination if we are to be successful in protecting our delicate environment and coastal resources for generations to come.

Just as in the 1960s, when President Kennedy had the foresight to protect the Outer Cape through federal action that created the Cape Cod National Seashore, today federal legislation is needed to protect beautiful Nantucket Sound from a future of oil and gas exploration, mining and other industrial development. As Cape residents, we recognize that the environment is our economy and as such needs to be guarded fervently.

Another positive aspect of the burgeoning movement toward landmark designation for Nantucket Sound is its bringing together of divergent groups to support a common good. The Sound belongs to everyone, and it is our duty to honor our commitment to its preservation.

It comes as no surprise that this initiative was spearheaded by Save Our Sound, the organization that defeated Cape Wind in 2017. We couldn’t agree more with your editorial, wishing them “strong winds at their backs, clear skies and smooth sailing.”

Wendy Northcross
CEO, Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce

Read more https://www.capecodtimes.com/opinion/20190218/chamber-backs-efforts-to-protect-our-sound

Reprinted via Cape Cod Times, which is not affiliated with the Alliance.

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Q&A with Audra Parker, President & CEO

Together, we have made great strides in our mission to permanently protect Nantucket Sound. But, we need your continued support to leave a lasting legacy for our children and grandchildren. I encourage you to contribute to our preservation campaign. Nantucket Sound won’t stay a national treasure without your support.

Why is Nantucket Sound a national treasure? The Sound has a rich tribal and maritime history and has long been recognized as more than just a body of water. It is the heart and soul of the Cape and Islands. It is a significant marine habitat for a diversity of ecologically and economically important species. It provides a livelihood for local fishermen, an inspiration for artists, and is a source of solace, relaxation, and recreation for the millions that flock to its shores. Nantucket Sound connects all of us who live and visit here.

Why is Nantucket Sound still vulnerable to industrialization? While the state waters of the Sound are protected under Massachusetts law, the federal waters in the center remain open to industrial development.

How can we permanently protect Nantucket Sound? The best way to secure permanent protection for the Sound is through federal legislation. The Alliance has proposed the ‘Nantucket Sound National Historic Landmark Act’ which would recognize the Sound’s historic, environmental and economic values. It would also prevent future development by prohibiting industrial projects in the Sound.

What have we achieved since the defeat of Cape Wind? We made solid progress toward enacting this federal legislation. We worked closely with our federal delegation and built a strong and diverse coalition of support. We earned endorsements from Governor Baker, our local representatives and nearly 100 key stakeholder groups. This coalition of elected officials, environmental groups, municipalities, tribal governments, historic preservation groups, commercial fishermen, and many others, is urging our representatives in Washington, D.C. to enact the Nantucket Sound National Historic Landmark Act.

Why does the Alliance still need funding? The Alliance is the only group that is fighting to protect Nantucket Sound. As a non-profit, we rely solely on private donations. Thank you for your continued generosity as we work to Save Our Sound… FOREVER. Your tax-deductible donation today will leave a legacy for tomorrow.

Audra Parker
President and CEO