Gray's Reef NMS Science Needs
Click on individual links below to learn more about the immediate science needs for critical management issues. For a full list of management issues and science needs, please review the GRNMS Management Plan. To contact us about the science needs described below, contact the Sanctuary Research Coordinators

Benthic Pelagic Coupling (Updated 5/1/2010)
Recreational fishing activities in Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary (GRNMS or Sanctuary) frequently target large pelagic species. Managers need to understand how the extraction of pelagic species impacts bottom associated (benthic) species.

Fish Spawning (Updated 5/1/2010)
Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary (GRNMS or Sanctuary) is home to many important commercial and recreational fish species. Managers need to understand the reproductive life cycle and associated resource (including habitat) needs that are met in GRNMS in order to adequately protect those resources.

Habitat Change - Sand Movement (Updated 5/1/2010)
Observations in Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary (GRNMS or Sanctuary) and at other live bottom areas in the South Atlantic Bight indicate that significant movement of sand occurs along the ocean bottom on a seasonal basis. Managers need to understand the movement of sand to understand how this impacts resources of the Sanctuary.

Invasive Species (Updated 5/1/2010)
Managers need to information on the presence and impact of invasive species in Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary (GRNMS or Sanctuary).

Managing Biodiversity (Updated 5/1/2010)
In order to adequately protect Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary (GRNMS or Sanctuary) resources, managers need to understand biodiversity in the sanctuary.

Marine Zoning (Updated 5/1/2010)
Research Area - Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary (GRNMS or Sanctuary) is considering establishing a research-only area within the boundaries of the sanctuary. Such an area would allow managers to understand the important issue of how extractive activities impact the resources of the Sanctuary.

Socioeconomics (Updated 5/1/2010)
Managers need to understand the socioeconomic importance of the resources of Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary (GRNMS or Sanctuary) in order to inform management decisions.

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