This is a landmark moment.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released draft plans to designate two new sanctuaries at Mallows Bay-Potomac River and Wisconsin-Lake Michigan. The creation of these two sanctuaries would be the first new additions to America’s National Marine Sanctuary System in over 15 years.

Thank you to those of you who already made your voice heard. And thank you to those of you who are about to.
Widespread and enthusiastic support makes these sanctuary designations possible. NOAA is only accepting comments on these plans until March 31st. We need passionate citizens like you to speak up supporting each of these sanctuaries during this critical time.
How can you help?
- Sign our letters of support that we will forward to NOAA telling them to designate these two new sanctuaries.
- If you’ve already signed on yourself, forward this message or share it on social media to encourage your friends, family, and neighbors to sign the letter in support of protecting these special places.
Mallows Bay-Potomac River
Mallows Bay-Potomac River in Maryland intertwines our Nation’s maritime and natural history. An offshoot of the Chesapeake Bay, the site is a gateway to our past, preserving nearly 200 known shipwrecks dating back to the Revolutionary War and includes the remains of the largest assemblage of World War I wooden steamships known as the famed “Ghost Fleet.” Over time, these abandoned ships became the foundation for a rich habitat for bald eagles, herons, and osprey, river otters and beaver, and numerous fish species that make the site a popular spot for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching. Learn more about the proposed Mallows Bay-Potomac River sanctuary. Sign the letter to support the Mallows Bay-Potomac River sanctuary.
Wisconsin-Lake Michigan
Wisconsin-Lake Michigan in the Great Lakes will preserve and celebrate nationally significant shipwrecks; help conserve the largest freshwater system in the world; and provide exploration, research, and education partnerships. These shipwrecks and cultural artifacts are important pieces of American history. They serve as popular locations for exploring, diving, fishing, and heritage tourism contributing revenue to the local economy and advance education and partnerships to promote opportunities for the next generation. Learn more about the proposed Wisconsin-Lake Michigan sanctuary. Sign the letter to support the Wisconsin-Lake Michigan sanctuary.
Discover more from Council of American Maritime Museums (CAMM)
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