Executive Issues Statement on NOAA Proposed Marine Sanctuary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 19, 2023
Media Contact: Chris Carroll
Phone: (814) -860-0794
Email: ccarroll@eriecountypa.gov
DAVIS ADMINISTRATION ISSUES STATEMENT ON NOAA NATIONAL MARINE SANCUTAURY, ENCOURAGES PUBLIC INPUT
ERIE, PA – Erie County Executive Brenton Davis is open to the idea of designating Erie County’s shoreline as a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) National Marine Sanctuary, but insists public input will be critical in determining whether and how to designate the area as a sanctuary.
“The idea of a National Marine Sanctuary to protect Erie’s maritime heritage, including a nationally significant collection of shipwrecks along our shoreline is a welcomed one, but we must do our due diligence to make sure this designation will not place any unnecessary restrictions on our economy, local property and business owners,” said Erie County Executive Brenton Davis.
NOAA is looking to appoint local members to the official designation committee to vet the process. Of particular interest are members of the fishing and boating communities, diving, maritime history, and tourism. If you are interested and willing to serve, please submit your resume to the Davis Administration via the Appointed Service Portal located on Erie County’s website (Eriecountypa.gov).
The public will play a crucial part in this determination of the boundary for the proposed sanctuary, cultural and historical resources in the area, specific threats, the regulatory and non-regulatory framework, the name, and more.
“Erie’s nomination excludes the Port of Erie from the sanctuary boundaries to ensure shipping and other commercial activities remain unaffected, we will lean heavily on this committee to make sure all of Erie’s interests are considered and not placing our economic future in jeopardy,” Davis added.
The Davis Administration encourages the public to attended NOAA’s in person meeting on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. at the Erie County Public Library – Blasco H.O. Hirt Auditorium. 160 East Front Street Erie, PA 16507.