Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary Condition Report and Management Plan Review
Since 1992, Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary has protected a complex, biologically diverse region within the Gulf of Maine that supports many human communities. The 842-square-mile sanctuary encompasses important feeding grounds for humpback whales, North Atlantic right whales, and other marine mammals, as well as feeding and migratory areas for seabirds, fish, and invertebrates. Its biological productivity supports commercial fishing and whale watching industries, while also providing opportunities for tourism and recreation.
2020 CONDITION REPORT
A new condition report written by a panel of expert scientists along with sanctuary staff and community partners evaluates the state of the sanctuary, setting the stage for a review of the sanctuary’s management plan.
The release of this condition report corresponds with the beginning of the sanctuary’s management plan review. Public scoping is the first phase in the revision process, and the public can comment through April 10, 2020, on the scope of issues and programs to be considered within an updated plan. Comments may be submitted online, by mail, or in person at the public scoping meetings.
>> Read more via SBNMS: New Report Sets the Stage for Community Input on Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary Management Plan
PUBLIC COMMENT MEETINGS
- March 11, 2020 (6:30 – 8 pm)
New England Aquarium, Education Center, 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110 - March 12, 2020 (6:30 – 8 pm)
Maritime Gloucester, 23 Harbor Loop, Gloucester, MA 01930 - March 18, 2020 (6:30 – 8 pm)
Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Admiral’s Hall, 101 Academy Dr, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532
Comment online:
Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal and use docket number NOAA-NOS-2020-0003.
Comment by mail:
NOAA Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary
175 Edward Foster Road
Scituate, MA 02066
Attn: Management Plan Revision
To learn more about the management plan review, visit the MPR section on the sanctuary’s website.
