1.  Document the ecological role and function of aquatic habitats for coastal fisheries.
2.  Provide status and trends information on the quality and quantity of coastal fish habitat.
3.  Describe and document threats to coastal fish habitat, including threats from both human activities and natural events.
4.  Describe the current rules concerning each habitat.
5.  Identify management needs.
6.  Develop options for management action using the above information.

Items 1-5 (above) are discussed for each of six habitat types, comprising the primary sections of the CHPP. For the current status of CHPP development, see CHPP Process