Celebrate the Ocean
Sea to Shining Sea Newsletter - June 2020
Few places on the planet can compete with the diversity of the National Marine Sanctuary System, which protects America’s most iconic natural and cultural marine resources. The system works with diverse partners and stakeholders to promote responsible, sustainable ocean uses that ensure the health of our most valued ocean places. Resources are open to the public, and showcase opportunities such as education and research to anyone who has an interest in helping our ocean.
As we reach out to share some of the latest news of the National Marine Sanctuary System, we want to acknowledge that our nation, sanctuary communities, and countless partners are facing unprecedented challenges due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19). While our offices and visitor centers are closed, the waters within NOAA's national marine sanctuaries are open for responsible enjoyment, in accordance with local guidance and regulations. Click here to learn more.
Capitol Hill Ocean Week Goes Virtual, Register Today!
This year, Capitol Hill Ocean Week, the premier ocean policy conference in the United States will take place online on Tuesday, June 9. The day-long conference will dive into the theme of protecting biodiversity. The full list of session topics and speakers are available online.
Get Into Your Sanctuary Photo Contest
Send us your best photos of the National Marine Sanctuary System by Labor Day (September 7) and you could be featured in next year's Earth Is Blue Magazine and on the Earth Is Blue social media campaign. This year’s contest features a new photo category, “Sanctuaries at Home”, where you can submit photos of stewardship activities or sanctuary inspired art from your home or neighborhood.
Mallows Bay Sanctuary Advisory Council Seeks Applicants
Following the designation of Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary last September, NOAA is now establishing and accepting applications for a Sanctuary Advisory Council. Applications for the council will be accepted through July 1, 2020.
NOAA’s National Marine Protected Areas Center Celebrates 20 Years
In May 2000, an executive order created the National Marine Protected Areas Center. For the past 20 years, the National Marine Protected Areas Center has worked to strengthen and connect the nation’s marine protected areas while recognizing the important role of people in ocean conservation.
Celebrate National Historic Preservation Month in Your National Marine Sanctuary System
To honor National Historic Preservation Month, we shared ways that you can explore our underwater maritime heritage from the comfort of your home. Take a 360-degree tour of one of the shipwrecks in Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary or explore these great online resources.
Webinar Series - Exploring National Marine Sanctuaries: Diving into Telepresence Education Programs and Resources
Learn how you can become virtual explorers in national marine sanctuaries and how to further bring the expedition into your house through our virtual resources.
June 16, 2020 at 3 pm Pacific / 6 pm Eastern - Register Today.
Video Highlight - Wreck of Lucinda Van Valkenburg in Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary
Dive under the surface of Lake Huron to discover the remains of the Lucinda Van Valkenburg shipwreck! For over a century, this vessel has rested within Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary.