In 1973, with the discovery of USS Monitor, Congress used the 1972 Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act to create our nation's first national marine sanctuary. Monitor National Marine Sanctuary was signed into law on January 30, 1975.

Management of Monitor National Marine Sanctuary is guided by the act, which authorizes the creation of regulations that are reasonable and necessary to protect the values of the sanctuary.

To learn more about the management of the National Marine Sanctuary System, visit Management 101.

sketch of monitor

Management Plan

Read about the current management and find previous management plans.

three divers in the water

Sanctuary Advisory Council

Find information on the council, its members, and meeting schedule.

sunk boat on the coral reef

Regulations

Learn about the regulations in place within the sanctuary boundary.

coral reef with fish swimming past a sunk boat

Permitting

Learn when a permit is required and how to apply for one.

law enforcement on a boat

Enforcement

Who to contact if you note a regulation violation within the sanctuary.