The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, working in collaboration with other federal, state and territory stakeholders, proposes to establish an ecological reserve to protect the best remaining coral reef habitat in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary . This biologically rich, relatively undisturbed site plays a critical role in sustaining the health of Florida's coral reefs and economy.
Coral reefs are an important biological resource to the nation.
We will continue to work with the Fishery Management Councils , the state of Florida , the National Park Service and other interested parties to develop the best conservation management plan to ensure a healthy environment and healthy economy. The establishment of the proposed reserve was unanimously approved by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council. It would consist of two distinct and separate reserves totaling 185 square nautical miles. The Advisory Council has proposed that the National Park Service include approximately thirty square nautical miles of important seagrass and shallow coral reef habitat in Dry Tortugas National Park . The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council already closes Riley's Hump to fishing in May and June each year to protect these spawning areas.