U.S. Senate Recognizes the Value of Our Nation’s Estuaries

The United States Senate passed a resolution recognizing National Estuaries Week 2025 as September 20 to 27.

Places where rivers meet the sea or a Great lake, estuaries provide habitat for fish and wildlife, protect shorelines from storm impacts, filter pollutants, and support vibrant coastal economies. From tourism and fisheries to recreation and transportation, estuaries contribute billions of dollars each year to local and national economies.

“We are deeply grateful to Senators Cassidy and Whitehouse and their colleagues for recognizing the importance of our estuaries and programs like Reserves that work to keep them healthy and thriving,” said Rebecca Roth, executive director of NERRA. 

“This resolution shines a spotlight on the incredible value these places bring to every American—clean water, thriving wildlife, strong coastal economies, and resilient communities. Estuaries Week was a time to celebrate this, but our work to protect and restore these vital ecosystems continues every day.”

In the House of Representatives, a companion measure was introduced to mirror the Senate’s action. Together, these resolutions reflect a bipartisan commitment to conserving the estuaries that sustain our environment, economy, and way of life.