NEW FIND: Researchers have located and identified the final resting place of the YP-389, a U.S. Navy patrol boat sunk approximately 20 miles off the coast of Cape Hatteras, NC, by a German submarine during World War II. Click here for new underwater footage of the YP-389 and the full story.

The Monitor NMS is conducting an underwater archaeological field expedition to the remains of vessels from the Battle of the Atlantic during World War II. This expedition is a continuation of the research work conducted in the summer of 2008 to research and document historically significant shipwrecks tragically lost during World War II, including U.S. and British naval vessels, merchant marine vessels, and German U-boats.

This year's project is divided into two phases. Phase one of the expedition will be conducted onboard the NOAA Research Vessel Nancy Foster. By using advanced remote sensing technologies including side scan sonar and multi-beam sonar, researchers will attempt to locate several previously undiscovered WW II shipwrecks.

During the second phase of the expedition, NOAA divers and partners will survey and photograph visible sections of the British Armed Trawler, HMT Bedfordshire, using non-invasive methods. The survey team will also study marine life found at the site, which now serves as a vibrant artificial reef. Consistent with U.S. and international policy, the shipwreck site is considered a war grave and will not be disturbed during the expedition.

Click here to learn more about the Battle of the Atlantic 2009 Expedition.

The State of the Sanctuary Report provides an overview of the current status of the Monitor National Marine Sanctuary and discusses the management activities and accomplishments since the sanctuary's designation in January 1975.

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Management Plan Review
New challenges and opportunities emerge with time. For this reason, federal law requires periodic updating of sanctuary management plans. The Monitor National Marine Sanctuary management plan review will take place through a community-based process with opportunities for the public and other government agencies to share their knowledge, voice their opinions, and directly participate as active stewards of America's marine sanctuaries.

Click here to view public comments received between December 1, 2008 and February 1, 2009 pertaining to the Monitor NMS Management Plan Review.

Click here to learn more about Management Plan Review, the upcoming scoping meetings, and how you can be involved in the process.

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Experience the Monitor Center at The Mariners' Museum through the LIVE Web Cam.