Dear Members of Congress,

We, the undersigned, urge you to support the full funding of the National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS). Every Reserve exists because people like us were deeply committed to preserving a special place and worked hard to ensure it became part of this time-tested program that has supported coastal communities for over 50 years.

We are proud to support the nation’s 30 Reserves in 24 coastal states and Puerto Rico. Together, these places create access to nearly 1.4 million acres of public land and waters, which are treasured by many thousands of residents and visitors who explore, recreate, and learn at Reserves every day. 

We love the natural beauty of our Reserves, but their role in making our communities stronger and better places to live is equally important. Each dollar spent on Reserves benefits us all in ways that significantly outstrip the investment. Reserve science, data, training, and technical assistance help protect our homes, businesses, and quality of life. At each Reserve, this support is tailored to address specific community challenges, including clean water protection, fisheries management, extreme weather, increased flooding, and hazards like oil spills, pollution, and red tides.
Our Reserves also create jobs, contribute to revenues, and supporting industries such as fishing and tourism through science, public programs, partnerships, and facility operations. Bottom line: whether they come to fish, hike, kayak, swim, or watch wildlife, Reserves visitors support local businesses. They also organize community events to encourage people to learn about estuaries and have fun on the coasts.

Perhaps most importantly, continued investment in Reserves will have lasting impact for our future and our children's future. Reserve education programs are helping to build the next generation of coastal decision makers, scientists, and resource managers with hands-on learning experiences for students and professional development for educators. 

Reserves are valuable to our communities and worthwhile investments in our future. We urge you to fully fund the NERRS so that Reserves can continue to support and strengthen coastal communities.

Thank you for your consideration of this request.