In preparation for future management and research investments, scientists from NOAA's National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science and the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries are collecting information from regional stakeholders and members of the public regarding Washington's Olympic Coast. Objectives are to assess the social value of coastal and marine resources, and to determine regional needs for seafloor mapping information.

In addition to important ecological resources, the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary also has a rich cultural and historical legacy. Credit OCNMS.

Through focus groups, scientists learned from the general public which natural resources are most highly valued by residents of Washington. Additionally, scientists met with federal, state, tribal, and local partners to develop mapping tools that can be used by natural resource managers, stakeholders and the general public to provide information that can be used by resource managers to identify and prioritize marine areas for seafloor mapping.

Both efforts will continue to collect scientific, social and economic data to support resource managers, improving their ability to prioritize management and research investments into the future. These products support place-based management of local, regional and NOAA trust resources. Project partners include: The Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, Point97, State of Washington, Makah Tribe, Quileute Tribe, Hoh Tribe and the Quinault Nation.

For more information contact Theresa Goedeke.