The CTP completed a comprehensive planning phase in 2004 which included a Coastal Decision Maker Needs Assessment, a Market Analysis of Training Resources available to decision makers and a Strategic Plan. Through this work it was determined that the primary issue challenging a sustainable Great Bay ecosystem is growth with all the issues that growth brings with it. The main issues identified in the needs assessment are land use change, increase in impervious cover, nutrient pollution, water pollution, and water resource problems. The sustainability of Great Bay is at risk. Land use and land use change is directly connected to water quality, ecological function, and species composition in aquatic habitats. The challenge will be to find ways to preserve and improve quality of life for humans without degrading the very ecological base on which growth and quality of life depend.

The CTP serves the specific target audience of coastal decision makers. The primary coastal decision makers in the New Hampshire Coastal Watershed, as identified in the 2004 GBNERR Needs Assessment and Market Analysis, are select boards and city councils, planning boards, conservation commissions, zoning boards of adjustments, planning departments and regional planning commissions.

The training methods employed by the CTP are based on the results of the 2004 Needs Assessment and Market Analysis, as well as GBNERR experience in providing trainings. Technical information transfer and training will utilize a variety of training methods including web based and printed material supplementing the main delivery of facilitated workshops with a field or demonstration component. Coastal decision makers have expressed the need for practical hands-on training that is efficient and gets them the information they need. Expert speakers and instructors will be the heart of this information transfer.

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