The Aquarium Conservation Partnership Announces MOU with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to Partner On America the Beautiful
Washington, D.C., June 6, 2024 - Last week marked a remarkable moment for the Aquarium Conservation Partnership (ACP). During Capitol Hill Ocean Week (CHOW), ACP and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance the goals of America the Beautiful initiative through community engagement, education, research, and locally led conservation. This five-year agreement solidified our partnership that was formed in 2022 to jointly develop a national action plan to:
Elevate and center the voices and participation of Indigenous and historically excluded communities in decision-making, and broaden and deepen community engagement across sectors.
Inspire and mobilize audiences through public engagement, education, and incubation.
Inform conservation priorities and policies to support new and/or strengthen existing marine protected area (MPA) designation, protection, and monitoring.
This monumental moment was celebrated after a meeting held with ACP, community partners, and NOAA to discuss this continued partnership, its goals, and the importance of amplifying diverse voices in conservation. Community members spoke with Dr. Rick Spinrad, Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and NOAA Administrator, about their conservation priorities, expertise, and work in their communities.
