MERITO (Multicultural Education for Resource Issues Threatening Oceans) is a marine conservation outreach effort comprising approximately twenty-five regional groups that participate in ocean and watershed education programs that serve students, teachers, adults and families living near the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS).



MERITO was launched in Fall 2002, and is working with a cadre of partners to provide classroom support, field trips, training and resources, college internships, event support and a forum for expanding bilingual outreach programs within Sanctuaries. Through enhanced knowledge of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and its associated watersheds, our diverse citizens will better understand the importance of protecting our resources and their special qualities.