Letter from MPA Center Director, Joe Uravitch, on Comments Received on National System Site Nominations

"The National MPA Center has seen some expressions of public concern both in formal comments and in the blogosphere about the proposed nomination of a few existing MPAs to the National System of MPAs. I would like to clarify a few points: The national system does not create new MPAs; it recognizes and supports the nearly 1,600 MPAs that already exist. Joining the national system does not affect the management of the park or its existing boundaries or regulations. No new restrictions on fishing, hunting or access are required.” Read more

Additional Facts About the National System of MPAs

• MPAs refer to protected areas that are completely or partially marine. Only a tiny percentage of MPAs in the U.S. are no take areas. Nearly all permit multiple uses such as fishing.
• Joining the national system does not change the restrictions of a site.
• In 2009, 225 federal and state sites joined the national system and have already begun working together on key projects. None have changed their regulations as a result of joining the system.