Aquatic Reserves Program
The Aquatic Reserves Program is part of the effort by the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to promote the preservation, restoration, and enhancement of state-owned aquatic lands.
As steward of the state's 2.6 million acres of state-owned aquatic lands, DNR is establishing aquatic reserves throughout the state to protect important native ecosystems on these public lands. Aquatic reserves protect areas that will enhance the health of native marine and freshwater aquatic habitats, and the fish and wildlife that depend on them.
These reserves are aquatic lands of special educational, scientific, or environmental interest. Involvement of the broader scientific, business and local communities in locating a potential reserve site helps DNR focus on long-term management options for a specific area.
Managing aquatic reserves does not affect private or other adjacent land ownerships.
Some of the benefits of designating areas as aquatic reserves include:
- Ensuring environmental protection through site-based preservation, restoration, and enhancement.
- Encouraging public use and access.
- Providing for greater public input into conservation management.
- Working with stakeholders, including citizens and state, local and federal governments, to develop and implement site-specific management plans.
Current Aquatic Reserves
New 2009 Proposed Aquatic Reserves—in Process
DNR solicited proposals for Establishing a New State Aquatic Reserve.
Getting Involved
