February 8, 2012 (CAPE COD) The state is releasing 135-thousand dollars to support eight projects designed to protect coastal waters.          

The Massachusetts Bays Program Research and Planning grants will help identify coastal habitat degradation and develop plans to address coastal pollution.        

The Cape Cod Commercial Hook Fishermen’s Association is getting 74-hundred dollars to enhance and expand the river herring warden network.        

The Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies is getting 22-thousand dollars to study the levels of pharmaceutical, personal care products and detergents in Cape Cod bay.        

Governor Deval Patrick says the state’s coastline makes up the essence of New England’s history and cultural allure.