Programs that provide for the conservation, protection and management of shorelines and coastal waters, their biodiversity, ecological integrity and cultural legacy, through the establishment of a system of marine sanctuaries which protects designated areas from oil and gas development, the dumping of radioactive and other waste, agricultural runoff, commercial and recreational over-fishing, harvesting of plants and animals, and the depredations caused by careless boaters, snorkelers, divers and other recreational visitors. The level of protection varies by area and ranges from the prohibition of oil drilling to full refuge status in which fishing and the harvesting of marine plants and animals are prohibited, shipping lanes are moved away from the region and recreational activities are strictly controlled if not forbidden.
No programs.