Aquatic Reserves Program
As steward of 2.6 million acres of state-owned aquatic lands, DNR is establishing aquatic reserves throughout the state to protect important native ecosystems. It is an effort to promote the preservation, restoration, and enhancement of state-owned aquatic lands that are of special educational, scientific, or environmental interest. 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.
Enhance the health of native marine and freshwater aquatic habitats, and the fish and wildlife that depend on them.
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 | 
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Establishing a New State aquatic reserve
Aquatic Reserves can be located on state-owned aquatic lands throughout the state. Each reserve must address environmental, scientific, and/or educational needs. Establishing a new aquatic reserve is a lengthy process that allows for scientific scrutiny and extensive public input. Before a site can be designated it is evaluated, and management plan developed with input and involvement of stakeholders; citizens; and public agencies.
DNR's Aquatic Reserves Program has developed materials to help guide this process:
Federal Civil Rights
In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, DNR does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. However, should a person wish to file a discrimination complaint, please write to:
USDA, Director
Office of Civil Rights
Room 326-W, Whitten Building
1400 Independence Avenue SW
Washington D.C. 20250-9410
or call 202.720.5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.