NOAA has established a sanctuary advisory council for the Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary. The advisory council brings members of the local community together to provide advice to NOAA and help guide sanctuary management. Council members also act as liaisons to their communities, building a strong connection between the sanctuary and stakeholders.

More information about National Marine Sanctuaries Advisory Councils

The Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast Sanctuary Advisory Council's 15 voting members represent a variety of interests, from recreation and tourism to education and research. The membership is designed to balance points of view represented, geographic diversity, and advisory functions the council will perform. An alternate for each seat is also selected.

Council meetings are open to the public and provide a place where community interests, support, and concerns are heard. Recruitment for members occurs as seats become available.

Voting Seats

  • Citizen-at-Large: 3 Seats
  • Diving/Dive Clubs/Archaeology: 2 Seats
  • History, Heritage, and Public Interpretation: 2 Seats
  • Education (K-12): 1 Seat
  • Education (Higher Education): 1 Seat
  • Tourism and Marketing: 2 Seats
  • Economic Development: 1 Seat
  • Fishing (recreational, charter, and/or commercial): 1 Seat
  • Recreation: 1 Seat
  • Maritime Industry: 1 Seat

Non Voting Seats

By virtue of jurisdictions adjacent to the sanctuary, each of the following government entities will designate one individual to serve on the council. The following government agencies will sit on the council as non-voting members:

  • Ozaukee County
  • Sheboygan County
  • Manitowoc County
  • Kewaunee County
  • City of Port Washington
  • City of Sheboygan
  • City of Manitowoc
  • City of Two Rivers
  • United States Coast Guard

Additionally, the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries welcomes the participation of interested American Indian Nations and Tribes on the council. This can be initiated by contacting the sanctuary superintendent. Participation on the council does not take the place of government-to-government consultation nor does it serve as the only opportunity for engagement between NOAA and Native American Nations and Tribes.