Science in Restoration

The RESTORE Act requires the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council (Council) to “undertake projects and programs, using the best available science that would restore and protect the natural resources, ecosystems, fisheries, marine and wildlife habitats, beaches, coastal wetlands, and economy of the Gulf Coast.” Per the RESTORE Act, "best available science" (BAS) is defined as science that: 

1. Maximizes the quality, objectivity, and integrity of information, including statistical information;
2. Uses peer-reviewed and publicly available data; and
3. Clearly documents and communicates risks and uncertainties in the scientific basis for such projects. Best Available Science Council Monitoring and Assessment Workgroup

Council Monitoring and Assessment Workgroup

The CMAWG is a collaborative workgroup with scientific experts representing the RESTORE Council Member agencies. It was established through the Council Monitoring and Adaptive Management (MAM) Guidelines (2019 MAM Guidelines) to lay the groundwork for collaborating on MAM tasks and provide recommendations to the Council regarding monitoring parameter guidelines, monitoring plan formats, reporting requirements, and use of Best Available Science. CMAWG activities are guided by annual Council Steering Committee approved CMAWG workplans.