Mr. Jonathan Kelsey
National System Development Coordinator, National Marine Protected Areas Center
NOAA's Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management
1305 East West Hwy, N/ORM
Silver Spring, MD 20910

RE: Immediate action needed to establish marine reserves

Dear Mr. Kelsey,

I urge you to take immediate and decisive action to protect our oceans and coastlines through the establishment of fully-protected marine reserves that provide sanctuary for fish and other sea creatures.

Our oceans, which sustain the livelihoods of millions across the continent and provide pleasure and inspiration to millions more, are in crisis. From Alaskan king crab to Gulf snapper, from Pacific rockfish to Atlantic flounder, overfishing has depleted a disturbing number of our fisheries to a mere fraction of what they once were. Marine pollution and climate change continue to threaten both marine life and human health.

Large-scale networks of no-take marine reserves are the best tool we have to ensure the long-term protection of our oceans for this and future generations. Today, less than one percent of U.S. waters are off-limits to fishing, but the recent designation of the Northwest Hawaiian Islands Marine Monument, along with ongoing efforts to create reserves in California waters, are an indication of what can be done if we work together.

I join millions of Americans in my great concern for the health and sustainability of the oceans on which all life ultimately depends. For the sake of our future, I want you to make full use of the opportunity you have to strengthen the legal protection of our oceans and coasts by establishing marine reserves.

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