The National Estuarine Research Reserve System protects and studies estuarine areas through a network of 25 reserves. We hope you will use this Web site to learn more about the importance of estuaries, our national programs, reserves in your state, and critical issues, such as polluted runoff, restoration science, invasive species and environmental stewardship.
Estuaries are places where fresh water from rivers mix with saltwater.
An estuary can be a bay, lagoon or slough. These important coastal habitats are used as spawning grounds and nurseries for at least two-thirds of the nation's commercial fish and shellfish. The wetlands associated with estuaries buffer uplands from flooding. Estuaries also provide many recreational opportunities, such as swimming, boating, and bird watching. The National Estuarine Research Reserves System helps to fulfill NOAA's stewardship mission to sustain healthy coasts by improving the nation's understanding and stewardship of estuaries.