Celebrate the Ocean

Sea to Shining Sea Newsletter - August 2019

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.

cover of the DRAFT Environmental Impact Statement for florida keys national marine sanctuary

Provide comment on proposed updates to Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

In response to concerns about ongoing threats to the Florida Keys marine ecosystem, NOAA's "Restoration Blueprint" synthesizes lessons learned from more than 20 years of on-the-ground experience in science, management, education, and local community involvement. Whether you live in the Florida Keys or only visit occasionally, we want to hear from you

Learn how to weigh in on the Restoration Blueprint.


diver documenting algae that covers coral

Researchers observe coral reef damage and invasive alga in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument

During an expedition in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, NOAA researchers observed reef destruction from Hurricane Walaka at French Frigate Shoals, and an invasive alga overgrowing native corals and other algae at Pearl and Hermes Atoll. Monument staff are now working to understand and respond to these impacts to the monument..

Continue reading...


A child boogie boarding

Join us August 2-4 to “Get Into Your Sanctuary

Get Into Your Sanctuary weekend is coming up on August 2-4, 2019. Whether you're already an avid outdoors person looking for a new adventure or you've never been kayaking, fishing, or taken advantage of our amazing underwater parks, this weekend is for YOU!

Get Into Your Sanctuary Events


R/V Manta supports divers in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary.

Watch Live: Exploring Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary

Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary has teamed up with Global Foundation for Ocean Exploration to study reef communities in the sanctuary. Scientists will use the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) Yogi to observe the reef habitats and capture photos and video throughout the expedition. Tune in live this week!


students looking at tide pools

Bringing NOAA into your classroom

Summer vacation is nearly over and the first day of school is just around the corner. If you have an interest in bringing ocean science, conservation, and stewardship into your classroom, we have tips and resources for you.

Click here to learn more...


earth is blue magazine volume 4 cover - a humpback whale

Earth is Blue: Annual magazine of the national marine sanctuaries

Through vivid images and engaging articles, Earth is Blue: The Magazine of the National Marine Sanctuaries brings sanctuaries directly to the American public, so you can experience the wonder of our ocean and Great Lakes, even if you don't live nearby.

The new issue of Earth is Blue Magazine is online now!


Richard coleman and two fish

National Marine Sanctuary Webinar Series - September webinar

Where are all the fish going? Identifying patterns of genetic connectivity across the Hawaiian Archipelago

Dr. Richard Coleman, former Dr. Nancy Foster Scholar at Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology

September 24, 2019 at 3:00 pm PT / 6:00 pm EST - Register today!


fish swim through a coral reef

Video - A Blueprint for the Future: Restoring Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary protects the only barrier coral reef in the continental United States, stretching south from Miami to the Dry Tortugas. Within these waters lie nationally-significant resources including seagrass beds, coral reef colonies, mangrove-fringed islands, and thousands of marine species.

Watch the video