See a map of the sanctuary and the coast of Washington.
Twice the size of Yosemite National Park, the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 3,300 square miles (8,575 square Kilometers) and contains some of the richest fishing and shellfishings grounds on our planet. Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary supports one of the world's most diverse kelp communities and is visited by 29 species of whales, dolphins and porpoises. The sanctuary contains some of the largest colonies of seabirds in the continental United States. Its coastline is home to one of the largest populations of bald eagles in the lower 48 states.
Marine Sanctuaries are part of our collective riches as a nation. They are treasures that belong to all of us as citizens, that we have the right to enjoy and the responsibility to protect for future generations. The National Ocenaic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the U.S. Department of Commerce manages the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary and other National Marine Sanctuaries to maintain their national beauty and diversity. The goals of the National Marine Sanctuary Program are to protect the marine resources through education and research and by encouraging compatible uses.
The following pictures will give you a feel for the beauty of the Sanctuary. There were provided by Robert Steelquist, Education Coordinator, Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary. (Note: these will be better identified soon)
Most of these images are large so plan accordingly. Each page has a picture and text followed by instructions on how to see the next page or return the home page.
You may use either the in-line jpeg version (if your browser supports them) or the in-line gif version of our slide show but if you have a slow Internet connection, you may prefer to use this version instead and pick which images you wish to see.
