My general interest in coastal issues is rooted in my educational background and previous work experiences. My education consisted of a combination of natural/physical science and social science courses, and I have worked in both the scientific research and resource management fields. This includes previously working at the URI Coastal Resources Center on a Special Area Managment Plan for the Narrow River and a Sea Grant project that examined historical water quality data and management practices in the Seekonk River. My primary interest in being involved with the Coastal Institute is to help work on the development of sound coastal management policies that are based on scientific research results as well as social, economic, and political factors. In particular, I am most interested in coastal issues dealing with water quality, watershed/regional land use planning, public access, resource management, and balancing economic growth and development with the preservation/restoration of marine ecosystems.