The Northeast Regional Planning Body, a group of state, tribal and federal representatives from New England who are working to implement the National Ocean Policy and address critical New England ocean issues, is holding a series of public meetings in May and June.

The meetings are being held to discuss draft regional ocean planning goals and associated potential actions. The planning body seeks input on these goals and actions. Additional information on the group's progress can be found here. 

The meetings will also provide an opportunity to review draft maps and products from initial efforts to gather information on the natural resources and diverse uses of the ocean, including fishing, transportation, energy and infrastructure, aquaculture, and recreation.

The May/June public meeting schedule is as follows:

Thursday, May 23, 4 to 7 p.m., Portland, Maine

Tuesday, May 28, 4 to 7 p.m., Narragansett, R.I.

Monday, June 3, 4 to 7 p.m., Ellsworth, Maine

Tuesday, June 4, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Rockland, Maine

Thursday, June 6, 4 to 7 p.m., Boston

Thursday, June 13, 4 to 7 p.m., New Haven, Conn.

Monday, June 17, 4 to 7 p.m., New Bedford, Mass.

Tuesday, June 18, 4 to 7 p.m., Gloucester, Mass.

Wednesday, June 19, 4 to 7 p.m., Barnstable, Mass.

Tuesday, June 25, 4 to 7 p.m., Portsmouth, N.H.

Additional information for these meetings (specific venues, agenda, etc.) is available here: 

These meetings will occur within the period during which the Northeast Regional Planning Body seeks public input regarding draft goals; public comment will be taken at these sessions. Those who are unable to attend these sessions can still submit input by June 28, 2013. The draft goals will be available through the same website in mid-May along with additional details for providing public comment.