National Estuarine Research Reserve System

The National Estuarine Research Reserve System is a network of 29 coastal sites designated to protect and study estuarine systems. Established through the Coastal Zone Management Act, the reserves represent a partnership program between NOAA and the coastal states. NOAA provides funding and national guidance, and each site is managed on a daily basis by a lead state agency or university with input from local partners. The research reserves cover over 1.3 million acres of estuaries and are focused on the following: Stewardship. Each site undertakes the initiatives needed to keep the estuary healthy. Research. Reserve-based research and monitoring data are used to aid conservation and management efforts on local and national levels. Training. Local and state officials are better equipped to introduce local data into the decision-making process as a result of reserve training efforts. Education. Thousands of children and adults are served through hands-on laboratory and field-based experiences. School curriculums are provided online.