As we look to 2013 and a healthier future for our oceans, I’d like to take a moment to ...
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One Percent is Not Enough
Only 1% of the ocean is protected compared to over 12% of land areas. We are working to change that.
Marine Conservation Institute is approved to receive grants through the 1% for the Planet program.
TAKE ACTION: Double the Size of Northern California's Marine Sanctuaries!
The National Marine Sanctuary program is proposing to double the size of Cordell Bank and Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuaries to extend over 125 miles of spectacular coastline from San Francisco north to Point Arena. This expansion will protect an exceptionally nutrient-rich region of the Pacific, feeding krill, fish, seabirds, whales, and the entire marine ecosystem. This includes the largest breeding colonies of seabirds in the continental US. Destructive activities like oil drilling will be prohibited while allowing fishing, research, recreation, and other activities compatible with ecosystem protection.
This can't happen without your support. Will you tell NOAA that you support the sanctuary expansion?
» Raise your voice to protect California's wildlife and sign our petition now!
Call for Tighter Law Enforcement in Pacific Marine Monuments
Report Highlights Tools and Tactics to Improve Enforcement Efforts
» Executive Summary [pdf]
» Full Report [pdf]
In response to illegal incursions and fishing in America’s Pacific marine monuments, Marine Conservation Institute today released a study that recommends ways to help law enforcement agencies combat threats to one of America’s last relatively unspoiled frontiers containing the most diverse and pristine coral reefs in the US.
“Our Pacific marine monuments are part of America’s great natural heritage,” says William Chandler, VP for Government Affairs. “Our goal in releasing the report is to help Pacific law enforcement agencies better patrol these remote sites scattered across a vast ocean. They are dedicated to the task but could use more resources, partners, and innovative tactics.”
To reduce the risk of illegal fishing, vessel groundings, spills, and the introduction of invasive species in our monuments, the report recommends implementing prohibitions on commercial fishing, enhancing surveillance and enforcement, and improving outreach to commercial and recreational vessel owners.