Welcome to our Web site in progress

Our Ocean is a coalition of conservationists, scientists, ocean users, local leaders, and business people from around the state working to preserve Oregon’s coastal legacy. We’re called Our Ocean because we believe that the ocean belongs to all of us, and each of us has a responsibility to protect it.

What's at stake?

Our ocean is one of the most diverse ecosystems on earth, and the driver behind a billion-dollar coastal economy. Yet Oregon's marine environment is under growing pressure. Global warming, pollution, increasing population, and past overfishing all threaten our ocean’s future health.

Marine protected areas, including marine reserves

Scientists have developed a strategy for protecting ocean resources for the next generation to treasure: establishing a system of marine protected areas, including marine reserves. Marine protected areas and marine reserves create underwater havens for wildlife that help ensure a healthy ocean for future generations, while still leaving the vast majority of ocean waters open to current commercial and recreational uses.

An effective strategy

Scientific studies from around the world demonstrate that marine protected areas and reserves work, helping to regenerate marine habitat, boost marine diversity, and revitalize the ocean ecosystem. Marine protected areas and reserves function like ecological insurance policies, a prudent step for ensuring that future generations will enjoy the benefits of a healthy ocean ecosystem.

Deep background

Marine Reserves: A Tool for Ecosystem Management and Conservation (PDF)
Pew Oceans Commission Report - January 27, 2003

For an excellent introduction to this issue, check out Green Fire Production’s new film, Common Ground Part 2: Oregon’s Ocean Legacy

Please check back soon to see our
final Web site!