Celebrate the Ocean

Sea to Shining Sea Newsletter - February 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.

Fish swarm around bright corals
Credit: Joe Hoyt/NOAA

Read the 2019 Accomplishment Reports for the National Marine Sanctuary System

Check out a series of reports detailing the notable accomplishments from each sanctuary in 2019. Deep sea discoveries, cultural symposiums, and successful live streaming events - every sanctuary can be proud of their hard work and achievements from a busy and successful year!

Read the 2019 Sanctuary Accomplishment Reports here.


Whales gulp feeding
Credit: Winn/NOAA

Provide Comment on Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary’s Management Plan Review

Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary has released a new condition report, evaluating the sanctuary and its resources. With the release of the condition report, we will revise the sanctuary’s management plan. Through April 10, we want to hear your comments on how we can best manage this special place. Learn how to weigh in.


Black and white photo of a sunset over water
Credit: Robert Schwemmer/NOAA

Can Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary Serve as a Local Refuge Against Ocean Acidification?

California’s Channel Islands are home to some of the most productive and unique ecosystems along the west coast of North America. The islands may also play a critical role as a refuge for a problem that scientists are just beginning to grapple with: ocean acidification.

Click here to learn more


People fishing on a boat in open water
Credit: Matt McIntosh

National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) highlights national marine sanctuaries

National marine sanctuaries are treasured travel destinations for a variety of boating related activities, including diving, fishing, wildlife viewing, and more. Through a new effort, NMMA is encouraging boaters and the broader community of outdoor recreation enthusiasts to add national marine sanctuaries to their list of must-see places.

Click here to view a highlight on Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary


A group of people gathered on a shore

Webinar Series - Empowering Young Water Scientists with the EarthEcho Water Challenge!

Learn how to use the EarthEcho Water Challenge platform to collect and share citizen science water quality data, access tools to analyze your results, and learn about the inspiring work of young people protecting our National Marine Sanctuaries and their local watersheds.

March 4, 2020 at 3pm Pacific / 6pm Eastern
Register today!


A sea turtle
Credit: John Burns

Video - Honu (green sea turtle)

If you've visited Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, you might have been lucky enough to see a honu, or green sea turtle. Get to know these gentle creatures in our video!

Watch