50 Years of National Marine Sanctuaries, US
The Office of National Marine Sanctuaries serves as the trustee for a network of underwater parks encompassing more than 620,000 square miles of marine and Great Lakes waters from Washington state to the Florida Keys, and from Lake Huron to American Samoa. The network includes a system of 15 national marine sanctuaries and Papahānaumokuākea and Rose Atoll marine national monuments.
Nearly 50 years ago, the U.S. ushered in a new era of ocean conservation by creating the National Marine Sanctuary System.
Sanctuaries connect people and communities through science, education, recreation, and stewardship. We rely on these networks to inspire community-based solutions that help us understand and protect our nation’s most spectacular habitats, marine life, archaeological wonders, and cultural seascapes.
As we look toward the future, we fully embrace our responsibility to save these spectacular places and ensure the National Marine Sanctuary System remains a source of pride and enjoyment for all.
Video Source: 50 Years of National Marine Sanctuaries from NOAA Sanctuaries on Youtube ⁄ CC BY
