Collin O’ Mara, the former DNREC director who now heads the National Wildlife Foundation, suggests that any review of the Coastal Zone Act should also update protections against rising sea level and extreme coastal storms.

O’Mara said Delaware, as an ocean-facing state, has tremendous economic potential in untapped areas along the bays. He said the state could attract tourists to see natural events such as the songbirds in spring, the horseshoe migration in May and June, and duck hunting in the fall.

“There are millions of folks who fly down Route 1 every year to get to the beach who have no idea of all the incredible kayaking, fishing and crabbing opportunities in the bayshore communities from Delaware City to Lewes, all those little communities along Route 9,” O’Mara said. “They could fill up hotel rooms and bring sales for bait-and-tackle and sporting-goods stores. I believe there is a significant economic opportunity there.”