The National Estuarine Research Reserve System is a network of 28 protected areas representing different biogeographic regions of the United States. Established by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, the reserve system is a partnership program between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the coastal states. NOAA provides funding and national guidance. Each reserve is managed on a daily basis by a lead state agency or university, with input from local partners. Reserve staff work with local communities and regional groups to address natural resource management issues, such as non-point source pollution, habitat restoration and invasive species. Through integrated research, education, and resource stewardship, the reserves help communities develop strategies to deal successfully with these coastal resource issues. Reserves provide adult professional audiences with training on estuarine issues of concern in their local communities. They offer field classes for K-12 students and target teachers through professional development programs in estuarine education. Reserves also provide long-term water quality and biological monitoring as well as opportunities for scientists and graduate students to conduct research in a “living laboratory".
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