WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Brian Mast (FL-21) joined the Bipartisan Congressional Estuary Caucus in expressing support for the designation of the week of  September 16 through September 23, 2023 as “National Estuaries Week.”

First recognized in 1988 by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Estuaries Week raises awareness on the critical habitats for wildlife, as well as the economic and environmental benefit they bring to our communities.

“Estuaries are an essential part of our community.  The problems facing the Indian River Lagoon, Caloosahatchee, St. Lucie and Lake Worth Lagoon have shown over and over again that our work to protect and restore our waterways is not over,” said Rep. Mast. “National Estuaries Week is a reminder of the importance of these critical habitats, and a demonstration of commitment to public health, the environment and the economies that depend on them.”

According to NOAA, estuaries—despite taking up only 13 percent of the land area of the continental United States—contribute 40 percent of jobs and 50 percent of the nation’s economic output.

The full text of the resolution can be read here.

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