NOAAís Grayís Reef National Marine Sanctuary Seeks Applicants for Advisory Council

September 25, 2008

NOAA’s Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary is seeking applicants for three positions representing sport fishing, sport diving and regional conservation on its advisory council, which ensures public participation in sanctuary management and provides advice to the sanctuary superintendent.

Candidates will be selected based on their expertise and experience in relation to the seat for which they are applying, community and professional affiliations, and views regarding the protection and management of marine resources. Applicants who are chosen as members should expect to serve three-year terms, pursuant to the council’s charter.

“The sanctuary advisory council provides a vital place for the community and sanctuary management to exchange ideas, discuss issues and share information,’’ said sanctuary superintendent George Sedberry.

Applications for the three advisory council seats are due Nov. 1, 2008. To receive an application kit, or for further information please contact council coordinator Becky Shortland via e-mail at becky.shortland@noaa.gov, by phone at 912-598-2381, or by mail at 10 Ocean Science Circle, Savannah, GA 31411.

The Gray’s Reef Sanctuary Advisory Council was established in August 1999 to ensure continued public participation in the management of the sanctuary.

Designated in 1981, NOAA’s Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary is one of the largest nearshore, live-bottom reefs off the southeastern United States, encompassing approximately 23 square miles. The live-bottom and ledge habitat support an abundant reef fish and invertebrate community, and loggerhead sea turtles, a threatened species, use Gray’s Reef year-round for foraging and resting.

NOAA understands and predicts changes in the Earth's environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and conserves and manages our coastal and marine resources.. Visit http://www.noaa.gov.