The Sanctuary's Mission
Our mission—to understand and protect the coastal ecosystem and cultural resources of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary—is carried out through resource protection, education and outreach, and research and monitoring.
Resource protection issues in the sanctuary are wide ranging, from pollution and coastal development to wildlife or ecosystem disturbance. While recognizing the many uses of the marine environment along its long coastline, we work to reduce or prevent detrimental human impacts on sanctuary resources through collaborative partner efforts, regulations and permits, emergency response, enforcement and education.
Our 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.
Education and outreach efforts help promote understanding, support and participation in the protection and conservation of the sanctuary.A variety of means are used to enhance understanding and stewardship of this national treasure, ranging from sanctuary visitor centers and public events to volunteer and teacher education programs.
Building partnerships and strong public involvement is a key element in all of these efforts, and includes ongoing participation of a diversely represented Sanctuary Advisory Council. Sanctuary activities are described in our annual accomplishment reports.