Mary Austerman is the Great Lakes Coastal Community Development Specialist for New York Sea Grant. Using a community-driven needs assessment survey approach, she identifies and responds to priority issues of decision-makers in New York’s Great Lakes region. Austerman assists local leaders in land use planning (adaptation/preparedness planning, smart-growth, etc.), watershed protection, sustainable renewable energy discussions, and assisting communities in their efforts in preparing for hazards such as the impacts of climate change and coastal storms. Her role with Sea Grant has changed since her start in 2006. In addition to working with local-decision makers, Austerman works with partners on the standardization of watercraft inspection for New York State.