The coastlines of the United States are beautiful places to live, work and play. But, they are also very fragile areas whose ecosystems are vulnerable to mismanagement. There are many complex issues facing the ocean science community at the federal, state and local levels-this report reflects the conclusions and recommendations of the National Academies drawing on discussions with USGS as well as input from potential users, clients and collaborators of the Coastal and Marine Geology Program. Table of Contents Front Matter Executive Summary 1 Introduction 2 The Coastal and Marine Geology Program 3 Future Program Emphasis 4 The Federal Role 5 Program Plan Recommendations References Appendixes A: Committee and Staff Biographies B: Acronyms and Abbreviations C: Selected Responses to USGS Staff Questionnaire and Clients and Collaborators Questionnaire D: The Relation Between the USGS Geologic Division Goals and the Coastal and Marine Geology Program E: Summary Budget Data F: The U.S. Geological Survey Coastal and Marine Geology Program Color Plates 1-7