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Overview of the MBNMS
A Message from the Superintendent
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The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS), designated in 1992, is a Federally protected marine area offshore of California's central coast. Stretching from Marin to Cambria, the MBNMS encompasses a shoreline length of 276 miles and 5,322 square miles of ocean, extending an average distance of 30 miles from shore. At its deepest point, the MBNMS reaches down 10,663 feet (more than two miles). It is our nation's eleventh Marine Sanctuary and its largest- larger then Yosemite or Yellowstone National Parks.
The MBNMS was established for the purpose of resource protection, research, education and public use. Its natural resources include our nation's largest kelp forest, one of North America's largest underwater canyons and the closest-to-shore deep ocean environment in the continental United States. It is home to one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world, including 33 species of marine mammals, 94 species of seabirds, 345 species of fishes, and numerous invertebrates and plants. This remarkably productive marine environment is fringed by spectacular coastal scenery, including sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, rolling hills and steep mountains.
 There are a variety of potential resource threats and opportunities within the Sanctuary due to the sensitivity of habitats and species in the region, the long stretch of adjacent populated coastline, and the multiple uses of the marine environment. Sanctuary research and monitoring programs evaluate the status and health of marine species, habitats and ecosystems, provide critical information to resource managers, and coordinate activities with the array of world-class research institutions in the region. Resource protection activities use a variety of means to reduce or prevent detrimental human impacts, including collaborative planning efforts, regulations and permits, emergency response activities, enforcement and education. Education and outreach is used as a critical element in enhancing understanding and stewardship of this national treasure, ranging from public events and interactive teacher workshops to extensive written materials.
Building partnerships and strong involvement of the public is a key element in all of these efforts, and includes ongoing participation of a diverse Sanctuary Advisory Council. Recent activities in these areas are described in our MBNMS newsletters.
A personal visit is a great way to experience the beauty of the Sanctuary and understand the need for protection of this special place. The variety of visitor activities in the Sanctuary region include kayaking, boating, diving and whalewatching, visiting one of the region's many coastal parks, or simply admiring the spectacular coastline. If you can't personally come to the MBNMS, please use these webpages to have a virtual experience!
Paul E. Michel
Sanctuary Superintendent
General Information
Other Information and Documentation
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