Seventeen projects involving 27 reserves across the nation and totaling more than $2 million have been recommended for support by NOAA’s National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS) Science Collaborative.

This white paper, developed by a 2020 catalyst project, provides an overview of expanding and deepening the application of cultural ecosystem services in the National Estuarine Reserve System.

This report summarizes five cultural ecosystem service assessment methods piloted by the 2020 catalyst project, Cultural Ecosystem Services in Estuary Stewardship and Management.

This 2021 paper from the University of South Florida discusses how machine learning was used to map aquifers throughout the Kenai Lowlands to locate groundwater discharge, providing a framework to extend this method of modeling groundwater to other reserves.

This 2021 article which appeared in Ecology and Society describes a research project exploring how alders, peatlands, and groundwater flows were incorporated into a spatial tool that was used in case studies with user groups and in outreach efforts. The paper includes evidence that these efforts to engage with stakeholders are resulting in attitudinal shifts as well as on-the-ground changes in peoples ’ decision-making.

This summary report discusses key points from focus groups with Kachemak Bay, Alaska fishery industry businesses and stakeholders, conducted as part of a project to provide tools to promote coastal resilience.

These GIS-generated maps show peatlands by major land owners in the Kenai Lowlands, Alaska region.

Oysters are the tiny superheroes of coastal environments. They enhance water quality, create habitat, and protect shorelines from storms and erosion. Along the Pacific Coast, native oysters are in decline, due in part to sedimentation, inadequate protection, and unsustainable harvests.