Congress Designates October 23, 2025, as 'National Marine Sanctuary Day' to Boost Ocean Awareness

This resolution officially designates October 23, 2025, as "National Marine Sanctuary Day." Essentially, this is Congress giving a formal nod to our nation’s underwater national parks—the National Marine Sanctuary System—and setting aside a day to celebrate their importance.

It’s a formal recognition of the conservation efforts that began with the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972, which established these protected areas in our oceans and the Great Lakes. The core purpose is to encourage public appreciation for these sites, which safeguard everything from historical shipwrecks to vital marine ecosystems.

Your Underwater National Parks

If you’ve never thought about it, these sanctuaries are like the Yellowstone or Yosemite of the sea, protecting nationally significant natural and cultural treasures. The resolution highlights that these areas are crucial for supporting healthy fisheries and driving local economies. Think about coastal towns where tourism and recreation are the main engines; the resolution points out that these sanctuaries generate billions of dollars through responsible visitation and enjoyment.

For the average person, this resolution doesn't change any laws or regulations, but it’s a big push for awareness. It’s Congress encouraging you, me, and everyone else to responsibly visit, enjoy, and support these sites. If you live near the coast or the Great Lakes, this could mean more local events and educational programs popping up around October 23rd, promoting kayaking, diving, or simply learning about the history right offshore.

A Call for Cooperation

The resolution also includes a section encouraging all Federal agencies to work together to support the goals of the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act. This is a quiet but important detail, essentially reminding the various government bodies—from NOAA to the Coast Guard—that they need to balance their priorities to ensure these sanctuaries are protected and managed effectively. While it's not a mandate, it’s a formal statement of intent for better interagency collaboration on ocean stewardship.

Since this is a resolution, it’s all about recognition and encouragement, not regulation. It’s a positive, non-binding move aimed at celebrating conservation and reminding people that the health of our oceans and Great Lakes directly impacts our economies and quality of life.