Concluding Remarks

Crew with turret dents. (Photo: Naval Historic Center)

Since its designation, the Monitor National Marine Sanctuary has accomplished many missions to protect and preserve the wreck of the famous Civil War ironclad. This report indicates that additional study of the sanctuary’s living resources and general marine environment is warranted. Conducting biological research, ongoing archaeological investigation, developing effective monitoring programs and establishing new partnerships with scientific communities will help guide management actions and better preserve sanctuary resources. Continued efforts in public education through exhibiting and various media outlets are important approaches to ensuring long-term protection of the sanctuary and the information it has yet to reveal about the life and times of the Monitor.