Email Your Rep: Protect National Marine Sanctuaries

What You Will Do: 

Reach out to your representative to share your support for National Marine Sanctuaries and encourage them to support their funding. National Marine Sanctuaries are under threat, as some are being evaluated for the use of commercial fishing. This sets a concerning precedent of National Marine Sanctuaries’ protections in the future. 

Find Your Representatives Here

When you click the link, enter your zip code and your Representatives will show up. You may need to click contact and submit this template via a form on their website or their email may be readily available (it all depends on your rep).

When you are ready, copy and paste the message below into an email or the contact form. Don’t forget to fill out the blanks and feel free to add your own voice and why this cause matters to YOU.

Your letter:

Subject: Support Proven Conservation Tools: National Marine Sanctuaries

Dear [Representative’s Name],

My name is [Your name], and I am a constituent writing to you today to urge you to support and protect our National Marine Sanctuaries. 

National Marine Sanctuaries are home to some of the most ecologically diverse and critically important ecosystems in the nation. These designated areas serve as refuges for threatened species, nurseries for fish populations, and natural barriers against the impacts of climate change. They also draw tourism and recreation that benefit local economies and communities. 

Currently, National Marine Sanctuaries are under threat. Earlier this year, Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary was evaluated for commercial fishing, threatening the reverse of years of science-backed protections. 

This is not a partisan issue. Our oceans are not resources to be exploited, but protected for future generations to enjoy the environmental and economic benefits they provide. I ask that you use your influence to support the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries work and ensure that it is adequately funded now and in the years ahead. I hope you will stand with your constituents and with science in defending these vital ecosystems. 

Respectfully,

[Your Name]