Few places on Earth can compete with the beauty, cultural importance, and ecological diversity of our National Marine Sanctuaries. To celebrate sanctuaries as a destination, the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries is hosting “Get into Your Sanctuary” events throughout the sanctuary system the weekend of June 27-28. Want to learn which sanctuaries are best suited for kayakers, history buffs, and divers? Where to picnic, take photos, or view wildlife? Learn more about visiting these iconic places here.

Place-based conservation connects with communities in a unique way. That connection also fuels the nation’s economy through activities like recreation and fishing. The Office for Coastal Management provides tools to help decision makers understand the economic importance of coastal resources, from sanctuaries to ports. For example, Economics: National Ocean Watch (ENOW) provides data on economic sectors that depend on the ocean and Great Lakes. Coastal County Snapshots provide easy-to-understand views of economic data at the county level. Learn more here.

W. Russell Callender, Ph.D. 
Acting Assistant Administrator for Ocean Services and Coastal
Zone Management, National Ocean Service