Click on individual links below to learn more about the immediate science needs for critical management issues. For a full list of management issues and science needs, please review the TBNMS Management Plan. To contact us about the science needs described below, contact the Sanctuary Research Coordinators.  

• Anchoring Impacts to Resources

  Maritime heritage resources of Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary are being damaged by recreational boat anchoring. (Updated September 2014)

• Socioeconomics: Impacts of On-water Recreation

  The Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary does not have data on the quantity and distribution of recreational diving, snorkeling and kayaking in the sanctuary. This data is essential for determining both positive and negative impacts on sanctuary resources, as well as positive impacts on the local and regional economy. (Updated September 2014)

• Socioeconomics: Visitor Centers and Regional Presence

  The Thunder Bay NMS National Marine Sanctuary operates NOAA's Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center and hosts a wide range of visiting researchers. Additionally, the sanctuary was expanded in 2014 from 450 square miles to 4,800 square miles, and the sanctuary is seeking to create a presence in locations outside Alpena. The economic effects of these activities on the local and regional community need to be studied, quantified and used to inform future management, outreach and public interpretation decisions. (Updated September 2014)