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Kachemak Bay Research Reserve
See the website for more information. |
| Recognizing both the value of estuaries and human threats to their existence, Congress established the National Estuarine Research Reserves System (NERRS) in 1972 to provide opportunities for long-term estuarine research and education, and to provide a basis for more informed management and use of coastal resources. This system currently encompasses 26 unique estuaries, the largest of which is the Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, also known locally as the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve (KBRR). KBRR was designated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in February 1999 and is managed by the state (Alaska Department of Fish & Game) in partnership with NOAA. The Reserve’s mission is to develop and implement research and educational programs that enhance our understanding of Kachemak Bay and its watershed and thus ensure that this estuary remain healthy and productive for Alaskans, the nation, and the diverse species that thrive there. The Kachemak Bay Research Reserve is composed of over 365,000 acres of terrestrial and aquatic habitats in and around Kachemak Bay. The KBRR designation only affects land and waters already owned by the public. Three legislatively-designated areas are included within the Reserve: the Kachemak Bay and Fox River Flats Critical Habitat Areas, portions of the Kachemak Bay State Park / Wilderness Area, and most of Beluga Slough in Homer. Designation of the Reserve has not changed existing ownership, management authority, or added new regulations. The KBRR offices are located in the Islands and Oceans visitor center, overlooking Beluga Slough. |
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This site sponsored by
the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival Steering Committee.
Web site design by Rich Kleinleder: leder@xyz.net and Karl Stoltzfus: bay@xyz.net. Contact them for suggestions or improvements to the site. Photographs provided by US Fish & Wildlife Service, Rich Kleinleder & Karl Stoltzfus copyright 2001 by USFWS |