Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is not only a place for fishing, diving, boating and swimming, but the foundation for a strong economy in the Keys and across Florida. Marine-related activities in the sanctuary contribute more than $4 billion in economic value to the state of Florida.
Within these waters lie nationally-significant resources, including seagrass beds, coral reef colonies, mangrove-fringed islands, and thousands of marine species.
A habitat at risk: This fragile habitat is under threat from hurricanes, disease, boat groundings, rising ocean temperatures, pollution and human interactions.
A plan to help: To protect and recover this important habitat, a restoration blueprint was created based on 30 years of cutting-edge science, technical experience and local community involvement. Learn more at floridakeys.noaa.gov/blueprint.
Your voice is wanted: Public comments will be accepted through January 31 in person, online at www.regulations.gov (docket number NOAA-NOS-2019-0094) and by mail addressed to Sarah Fangman, Sanctuary Superintendent, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, 33 East Quay Road, Key West, FL 33040.