A marine sanctuary is a place to visit unique and wonderful aquatic life. Become acquainted with species you normally would not have access to, and learn why these spaces are so important to the world.
Many of us are familiar with the idea of animal sanctuaries: areas for wild animals to remain wild and free. A few years back I shared with EcoParent my story and experience with dark sky sanctuaries, havens for those who wish to see the night sky without the detrimental effects of light pollution as well as for the flora and fauna that thrive under these conditions. With this love of seeing nature in its true and natural form, it should come as no surprise that I have another sanctuary to cover—the marine sanctuaries of North America.
As a resident of the northwest coast of the United States, I’m completely enamoured with the great Columbia River and the thrashing waves of the Oregon coast. I’ve walked the tide pools of Puget Sound daily and grew up swimming in lakes devoid of motorized watercraft that are filled with fresh rainfall. If the water calls to you as it does to me, you won’t want to miss these attractions on your next trip.
What is a Marine Sanctuary?
The term Marine Sanctuary, or Marine Protected Area (MPA), is an official designation, just like ‘state’ or ‘national park.’ The Office of National Marine Sanctuaries is the steward for American sanctuaries, which include 15 national marine sanctuaries and the Papahānaumokuākea and Rose Atoll marine national monuments, covering 620,000 square miles of oceanic and Great Lakes water habitat. In Canada, there are 14 areas designated by the Oceans Act Marine Protected Areas ranging across the Pacific, Arctic, and Atlantic oceans accounting for an additional 135,000 square miles.
Criteria to become an approved sanctuary are based on factors such as conservation, and on recreational, ecological, historical, scientific, cultural, archaeological, educational, or aesthetic qualities, but each sanctuary may be differently managed given local area needs and assets. In addition to the protection offered by a marine sanctuary, experts boast many additional benefits, from the support of local economies to worldwide climate impacts.
The Many Benefits of Marine Sanctuaries
Clearly, designated marine sanctuaries protect fish and other aquatic species by preventing chemical contamination and minimizing toxic runoff, reducing industrial noise and heat pollution, and limiting effects from the fishing industry. They have a profound impact on creating healthy, thriving ecosystems and protecting endangered plant and animal species. Marine protected areas may also have long-term effects we have yet to see in the areas of sustainable food and industry practices of the future.
But the future may be exactly where our aquatic preservation truly shows results, specifically in terms of climate change.
The National MPA Center explains that protected marine areas can help to lessen oceanic stressors, noting that “over half (55 percent) of the biological carbon stored globally is stored by living marine organisms.” These protected zones protect our carbon-absorbing organisms. Additionally, they provide safe corridors for migrating species and areas for species like crabs and algae to bounce back from events that may have put them at risk.
Another important aspect of marine sanctuaries is the opportunity for public appreciation and education—a perfect reason to visit an MPA.
Plan a Visit
There are several visiting options to fit any distance and budget.
Virtual Visit
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has an amazing series of 360-degree videos offering a virtual deep dive into sanctuary waters. Travel from the Great Lakes to the Channel Islands and across the Florida Keys all without getting wet. Young adults will love the addition of virtual reality (VR) aquatic experiences matched with Next Generation Science Lesson plans.
Don’t skip the Sanctuaries Live series, which offers streaming exploration for most digital devices. Families can watch ocean scientists as they track coral reefs, or explore mysterious shipwrecks. Past Q&A sessions are also available for viewing, which answer many inquisitive student questions for a more in-depth educational experience.
Top Picks for North America
While virtual visits are great, few things beat the real deal like a trip to protected waters. Many people may have visited a protected area and not have realized it, such as sailing in the Channel Islands or visiting the Oregon coast. Here are a few must-see destinations for your summer vacation:
- Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area—Sometimes called an “inland ocean”, this lake is set to become the largest protected area of fresh water in the world. In addition to its vast inland waters, a highlight of this experience includes a birdwatching hike from Dorion through the trails of the Hurkett Cove Conservation Area to witness up to 20 species of warblers as well as falcons, eagles, and pelicans.
- Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary—The name of this sanctuary should already tell you why it’s worth a visit, but if the Hawaiian Islands and majestic whales aren’t enough to entice you, there’s also boating, snorkeling, or sustainable fishing too.
- Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area—In all fairness, this may be one of the more difficult sanctuaries to visit, yet the majestic beauty of this arctic landscape still deserves a mention—abound with fjords, glaciers, and thousands of seabirds.
- Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary—If there are any Twilight fans in the family, this destination is for you. The rugged Pacific Coast in Washington features crashing waves amid towering mossy forests, including the Hoh rainforest. Enjoy whales, sea lions, and otters as well as rocky beaches and plentiful camping in the Pacific Northwest.
- Fathom Five National Marine Park—Another Canadian Great Lakes location, this park provides the opportunity to camp on Flowerpot Island, home of its famous eponymous rock formation. The area is known for clear waters and scuba diving with over 24 sunken shipwrecks to explore.
- Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary—A wonderful excuse for a warm and sunny Florida vacation that doesn’t skimp on a great nature experience. See West Indian manatees, baby sea turtles, and coral reefs as you enjoy fruity drinks and sandy beaches.
- Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary—This southern US sanctuary partners with a fantastic Ocean Discovery Center in Savannah, Georgia. There are many species of fish, crabs, and lobsters as well as coral reefs and sponges. Outside the sanctuary, the area is also known for fantastic fishing, boating, and diving, as well as for playing a prominent role in scientific hurricane research.
There are so many different marine sanctuaries to explore. Regardless of where you choose to visit, the most important thing to remember is to engage with these places responsibly. Follow all local laws and guidelines when it comes to recreation, sport, and any other local regulations. Keep pets in designated areas and clean up after them; if you see trash, place it in the proper receptacle. If you are fortunate enough to encounter amazing wildlife, keep your hands to yourself and enjoy with your eyes only. If at any point you find a creature that looks sick or hurt, kindly report it to local authorities. Check directly with your chosen location to find local guides on animal migrations and visiting habits as well as advice on how to get the most out of your visit.
Our aquatic environment plays such an important role in the health of our climate and planet; take this time to enjoy and help raise awareness to preserve it for future generations.
