The ODFW Marine Reserves Program is studying both the ecology and the human dimensions of the reserves. For instance, how do marine reserve protections — no fishing and no ocean development — affect marine species and habitats over time? How do these protections affect people and communities? How do people value and depend on the ocean? What else can we learn about Oregon’s nearshore marine ecosystem?
This is a long-term research and monitoring program. What we’re learning from these living laboratories is being used to support the management of marine reserves, sustainable nearshore ocean resources, and coastal communities here in Oregon.
For a state famous for exploration, we’ve only skimmed the surface of our coastal waters.
Each Site is Unique
Each of Oregon’s marine reserves is unique. They are different shapes and sizes. They have distinct habitats and biological characteristics. They each experienced different types and levels of fishing before closure. The demographics and socioeconomic characteristics of the coastal towns and communities most closely tied to each site are different.
These unique features mean we will likely see different conservation outcomes and different impacts to people and communities at each site.
