Bay Net is a group of trained naturalists who engage visitors of the MBNMS along shorelines and other places where wildlife can be viewed.  With binoculars and spotting scopes, they share information on local wildlife and help promote the understanding of this remarkable natural treasure.   They are also there to help protect the wildlife from human disturbances which can severely impact the animals, especially on pupping beaches and other areas where there are young animals or nesting birds.

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Team OCEAN (Ocean Conservation Education Action Network) puts trained naturalists in kayaks on Cannery Row in Monterey and Elkhorn Slough in Moss Landing.  Both of these locations are rich in bird life, marine mammals and other wildlife.  The Team OCEAN volunteers interact with kayakers and others who use these areas for recreation.  They share information on the natural history of these waters, help with identification of wildlife, and share information on safe viewing of the animals. Team OCEAN volunteers strive to prevent human disturbances that negatively affect the health and welfare of the birds and marine mammals. Many of the species that inhabit the sanctuary's waters have been brought back from the brink of extinction.  Team OCEAN volunteers help show visitors how to observe and enjoy animals like Southern Sea Otter and Pacific Harbor Seals, as well as many bird species and even whales without causing them harm.  Ultimately we hope that as visitors learn about the wildlife, they will also become  stewards of the sanctuary and its residents.

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If you'd like to learn more about the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and its programs click here.                

 

To donate to Team OCEAN or BayNet click here.

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