Ocean Ecosystem, it’s what we need to understand and to protect.

Ocean ecosystems are being assaulted and degraded. To save oceans, we need to observe holistically and to think systemically.  To save oceans diverse interest groups need to network and collaborate. It will take combined efforts by many to undo some of the damages we have done.  The better we coordinate the more we’ll accomplish and the better will be our stewardship moving forward.

Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is a most vital ocean realm located off the coast of Massachusetts.  For most people Stellwagen is at the heart of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem. The Sanctuary is home to over five hundred species of fish, birds, and marine mammals and since 1976 where the most whales are viewed in the world.  This National Marine Sanctuary consists of four Atlantic marine ecosystems as defined by bottom types: sand, gravel, mud and boulder.

In understanding Atlantic ocean ecosystems, connections between healthy freshwater ecosystems and the vast diversity of life supported by the oceans are in need of further exploration. Rivers and streams deliver freshwater and nutrients to the coasts.  Rivers and streams also transport fish and minerals, “a carbon highway” the other way far inland. This means that not only does what we do on the land have effects on ocean ecosystems, disconnecting the sea from the interior and lessening the migration of fish to natal shores harms the land. Through Atlantic marine ecosystem research, education, advocacy and responsible stewardship, we can better protect, restore and conserve the ocean, rivers and watersheds.

Join with us in a campaign to understand better the workings of Atlantic marine life connections. Discover how by working in concert with others we can better steward oceans, shores, beaches and bays for the fish, for the whales, for a cherished way of life.