Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary encompasses an area larger than Yellowstone National Park. With a shoreline length of 276 miles and more than 6,000 square miles of ocean, safeguarding the sanctuary resources and marine ecosystems while also promoting public use is critical for maintaining a healthy environment for everyone to enjoy. You might ask how a sanctuary that large is managed.
The sanctuary has research, education and resource protection staff, and, like the other 16 national marine sanctuaries, also has a Sanctuary Advisory Council. Tony Elliot, recreation seat for the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Advisory Council, reflects on the importance of community connections with the environment. “It is an honor and privilege to serve on the Sanctuary Advisory Council,” he says.
“Recreation is at the heart of how millions of people experience and interact with the marine sanctuary. This connection has a unique way of inspiring a love for the Monterey Bay region and ultimately fostering a spirit of care and stewardship for this special place.” The Monterey Bay Sanctuary Advisory Council is made up of up 14 seats, representing the diversity of community interests adjacent to the sanctuary (e.
g. recreational fishing, agriculture and local colleagues). Another seven seats represent agencies such as the U.
S. Coast Guard. Established in 1994, the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Advisory Council was established to promote public participation in management of the sanctuary.
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