NOAA is now accepting applications for the Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council, to advise NOAA on the sanctuary management plan and will serve as a liaison between NOAA and the community. Applications will be accepted through July 1, and materials for voting seats are available here.

NOAA is currently recruiting for all 15 voting seats and 15 alternate seats from each of the following interests:

• Maritime Archaeology and History (2 members, 2 alternates)

• Cultural Heritage (1 member, 1 alternate)

• Recreation (2 members, 2 alternates)

• Business and Economic Development (2 members, 2 alternates)

• Tourism and Marketing (1 member, 1 alternate)

• Education (2 members, 2 alternates)

• Research, Science and Technology (1 member, 1 alternate)

• Recreational Fishing (1 member, 1 alternate)

• Commercial Fishing (1 member, 1 alternate)

• Citizen At-Large (2 members, 2 alternates)

In addition, we are seeking a member of the community, age 14-17 at the time of application, who will sit in a youth seat on the council as a non-voting member. Non-voting members will represent Charles County, MD Department of Planning, MD Department of Natural Resources, Department of Navy / Department of Defense, US Coast Guard, State of Virginia, Piscataway Conoy Tribe (Maryland), Piscataway Indian Nation (Maryland), and the Patawomeck Indian Tribe of Virginia.