Making sure the funding is in place in the budget of coastal and estuarine systems across the United States, such as the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, is an ongoing challenge, but one that local support can help make a difference.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration approved federal funding for the Reserves for the 2025 fiscal year, but now the 2026 fiscal year budget is in question and according to the National Estuarine Research Reserve Association, the proposed federal budget for the upcoming fiscal year eliminates the funding for the reserves entirely.
More than 1,000 people have already signed a national letter of support for the reserve system, being circulated to show Congress what the reserves mean to their local communities.
The goal is to hit 2,000 signatures during July to ensure the safety and continued maintained health of the ecological systems, which include 30 sites as part of the national network.
Guana is one of those 30 reserves, and NOAA provides funding and national guidance, as well as reserve-based monitoring, research, education, stewardship, and training programs since the Coastal Zone Management Act was passed in 1972.
Healthy estuaries are vital in many ways, including supporting clean water, healthy fisheries, and strong outdoor traditions.
Vibrant ecosystems are both economic and ecological engines—serving as key hubs for fishing, boating, tourism, and shipping. To support thousands of jobs and generate billions of dollars annually through seafood, recreation, and maritime industries.
Wetlands play a crucial role in protecting infrastructure and property, as the natural areas help manage stormwater, reduce erosion, and absorb high tides which help shield roads, homes, and businesses from weather damage.
Locally, the Guana protects 76,760 acres in Northeast Florida, including the northernmost mangrove habitat on the East Coast and some of Florida’s highest dunes.
The reserve offers an oasis for sea turtles, eastern and American oysters, and roseate spoonbills, as well as offering a winter calving ground for the endangered right whale.
Residents looking to show their support for the Guana Reserve and a continued full funding effort at the federal level can go to www.nerra.org/get-involved/ to sign the letter of support.
