Highly protected marine reserves are areas in the ocean where fish, birds, plants and
marine mammals can thrive. That means the animals are free to frolic and play, find mates or simply while away
an afternoon oblivious to the outside world. It’s kind of like college for fish.
Studies show that species in highly protected marine reserves flourish and in their quest
for self-discovery, often swim well beyond the boundaries of the reserves…
"Road Trip! Woohoo.”
This is good news for fishermen and coastal communities that depend on healthy fish populations
for survival.
Marine reserves are also good for all of us. Like national parks, they safeguard a vital
part of our planet for future generations. But its not just about preserving natural
beauty, scientists are just beginning to discover the enormous benefits that a healthy ocean
provides.
Thank goodness someone took college seriously.
Looking at it from a global scale, scientists highly recommend that at least 30 percent
of the ocean be fully protected. Marine reserves are key to addressing challenges to ocean health.
It makes sense we’d want to protect it but so far we’ve only set aside only a tiny
percentage of the ocean as highly protected!
Its time we turn more of our oceans into marine reserves, not only to protect them,
but to protect ourselves.
And if you happen to wander into one remember, respect the marine animals that live there
and let them party on.