Welcome to NERRA

Your version of Flash needs an update.

Estuaries

NERRS

Map of Reserves

The National Estuarine Research Reserve System

In 1972, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and coastal states created a network of protected areas through the Coastal Zone Management Act. The network—called the National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS)—promotes scientific research on estuaries to improve our ability to understand, manage, and restore these vital habitats. There are 27 reserves throughout the country.

NERRS accomplishments include:

Monitoring water quality and weather in estuaries around the country.

Educating thousands of K-12 students and teachers about estuaries each year.

Training coastal decision makers in “best practices” of estuarine management.

Protecting over one million acres of habitat in 22 states and territories.

To learn more about the NERRS, visit www.nerrs.noaa.gov.