Strengthen the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary

Surfrider chapters in Washington State are working to strengthen the management plan for the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary (OCNMS). The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has launched a process to update the plan for the first time since 2011 based on a new condition report and input from the public. During an official comment period held in the spring of 2023, Surfrider Foundation submitted a letter with our recommendations for the updated management plan. Surfrider's priorities include science-based protections for sanctuary species, habitats, ecological functions, and sustainable human uses. The OCNMS encompasses one of the most important ecological areas in the Pacific Northwest and the updated plan must address the threats of climate change, destructive resource extraction, invasive species, hazardous vessel traffic, and water, plastic, and noise pollution. Surfrider conducted outreach during the OCNMS management plan update process to encourage members of the public to submit comments. Surfrider is also a member of the OCNMS Sanctuary Advisory Council and will continue to support efforts to strengthen the sanctuary. To learn more see the links below