Join NERRA in a rally for the coasts on February 25th!

NERRA welcomes all Reserves and partners to join “Coastal Communities Coming to the Capital: A Virtual Rally” on February 25, 2025, from 3:15-4:15 pm ET. (Zoom link here.)

This is a chance for you to connect with fellow coastal professionals, learn about the latest updates in federal coastal policy, and prepare for the upcoming meetings in Washington, DC. Together, we’ll make our voices heard, advocating for the future of our coastlines and communities.

The rally will feature insightful presentations and discussions from key leaders, including members of Congress and top officials from federal coastal agencies. Attendees will hear directly from decision-makers about the state of federal coastal policy and funding as we head into 2025. Speakers Include:

• Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI)
• Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) – (Invited)
• NOAA Leadership
• US Army Corps of Engineers Leadership

This rally is specifically designed for on-the-ground coastal “practitioners” who make a real impact in their communities. Whether you are a coastal manager, scientist, engineer, student, steward, or other related professional, we hope you can join. While federal agency staff are not the primary audience, we welcome their participation. The rally is not open to the media.

We encourage all Reserves staff and partners to attend. Feel free to share the invite with your colleagues, friends, and community members to ensure strong, diverse representation. Together, we can demonstrate the power and reach of our collective efforts.

Participating Organizations:

• Association of National Estuary Programs
• American Shore & Beach Preservation Association
• Coastal States Organization
• IOOS Association
• Marine Debris Foundation
• National Marine Sanctuary Foundation
• National Estuarine Research Reserve Association
• Regional Ocean Partnerships
• Restore America’s Estuaries
• Sea Grant Association
• SHORES Coalition