Celebrate the Ocean

Sea to Shining Sea Newsletter - November 2018

Few places can compete with the diversity of the National Marine Sanctuary System, which protects America's most iconic natural and cultural marine resources. Throughout the system, we work with diverse partners and stakeholders to promote responsible and sustainable uses that ensure the health of our most valued ocean places. These ocean parks are open to public, and we invite you to enjoy them and join us as we explore the depths of the ocean.

a group of octopus next to rocks

Octopus! Exploring the Depths of Our Ocean

NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries has been characterizing unexplored deep-sea regions along the West Coast on both the NOAA Ship Bell M. Shimada and the exploration vessel (E/V) Nautilus . Check out the octopus garden - where more than 1000 octopuses were observed.

The Nautilus's discovery


The 2018 Nancy Foster Scholars

Congratulations Nancy Foster Scholars

This scholarship recognizes outstanding graduate students and encourages independent research, particularly by female and minority students. NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries selected three students as recipients of the Dr. Nancy Foster Scholarship, representing graduate-level areas of study.

Applications are now being accepted for a Nancy Foster scholarship - due Dec 17, 2018


a  whale tail

Seeking Nominations for the Marine Protected Areas Advisory Council

The Department of Commerce is seeking nominations for membership on the Marine Protected Areas Federal Advisory Committee". The Committee advises the Secretaries of Commerce and Interior on implementing strategies and priorities for the design, monitoring, and adaptive management of effective marine protected areas in U.S. waters. Nominations must be received by Dec 1, 2018.

Continue reading...


map of california coastl

Deep-Sea Habitats Along the West Coast

NOAA’s national marine sanctuaries along the West Coast are working to protect deep sea coral and sponge communities.These deep-water communities provide refuge and food for many other species of invertebrates and fishes.

Learn more...


bird flying

Winning Photos of “Get Into Your Sanctuary” Photo Contest

This year’s contest winning photos feature incredible images that showcase America’s underwater parks.

Check them out...


map of california coastl

Plan a Trip to a National Marine Sanctuary!

There are great opportunities to explore and enjoy America’s Great Outdoors. Your public lands and waters collectively hosted 886.7 million visits in 2017. Plan your next camping trip to a national marine sanctuary.