Protecting Estuaries: Research Reserves
One way the United States protects its estuaries is through the National Estuarine Research Reserve System. These sites, which protect nearly 1.4 million acres, provide monitoring data, research, and community and educational opportunities. Several laws and executive orders form the statutory basis of the Research Reserve System, which was created by Section 315 of the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) of 1972.
How to Get Involved
Estuaries require everyone’s help and hard work to keep them clean and safe. You can contribute in many ways to protect estuaries and conserve the valuable natural resource in estuarine ecosystems. Find your local reserve below and get in touch to learn about education programming and volunteer opportunities. Interested in a fellowship or internship? Checkout the educational opportunities for students information.
- 10 ways - PDF you can protect estuaries.