Benefits of National Marine Sanctuaries

System of Treasures

The National Marine Sanctuary System encompasses some of America's most iconic natural, cultural and historical marine resources in the ocean and Great Lakes. Sanctuary waters protect essential habitat for countless marine species and conserve areas of historical and cultural significance. The system promotes responsible, sustainable ocean uses to ensure the health of our most cherished ocean places.

Resource Protection

The National Marine Sanctuaries Act provides enhanced resource protection for natural, cultural, and historical resources through regulations, permits, enforcement, consultations, civil penalties, and
damage assessment for loss or injury to resources.

Research and Monitoring

Sanctuaries conduct and support research, monitoring, and exploration to protect and manage resources effectively. Each sanctuary has programs designed to address its specific needs, focusing on natural processes, human influences, socioeconomic factors, and maritime archaeology.

Education and Outreach

Sanctuary education and outreach programs enhance public awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the marine environment and teach ocean and climate literacy principles. National marine sanctuaries serve as natural classrooms and laboratories for teachers, children, and researchers alike to learn about and care for ocean and Great Lakes environments.

Indigenous Peoples

The National Marine Sanctuary System overlaps across Indigenous Peoples' homelands—lands and waters that Indigenous Peoples have been part of and cared for from time immemorial, and many Indigenous cultures continue to hold the responsibility to care for today. The Office of National Marine Sanctuaries respects Indigenous Peoples' sovereignty, understands the importance of their unique knowledges, and the need for meaningful engagement and partnerships with Indigenous governments, communities, and peoples as we work collaboratively to care for the environment.

Community Involvement

Sanctuaries engage communities and stakeholders through a variety of ways, including outreach, education, science and monitoring, volunteer programs, and advisory councils.

Public Process

Public engagement is a cornerstone in the designation of and continued stewardship of national marine sanctuaries. Sanctuary advisory councils allow the public to provide advice and recommendations on the management and priorities of individual sanctuaries. Sanctuary designation is an extensive public process including community engagement, stakeholder involvement, environmental review, and rulemaking. NOAA also invites the public to review and comment on periodic proposed changes to the manage