It’s been a busy summer here at Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary, culminating with the annual research expedition aboard the NOAA ship Nancy Foster. Following the 10-day research mission, the Nancy Foster docked along River Street in Savannah and was toured by almost 200 local middle school students. 

Read all about the exciting research projects that were conducted through the “ships log” blog and in this article from the Savannah Morning News. Take a peek on board the ship in this video segment from our friends at WTOC and catch up with local Fox affiliate WTGS here who visited during the Gray’s Reef-hosted ship tours. 

Special thanks to Representative Buddy Carter of Georgia’s 1st District for visiting Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary during the expedition! See photos from the Congressman’s visit on Facebook.

Photo: Steve Bisson, Savannah Morning News

Volunteer Call             

Gray’s Reef NMS will be featured at these fantastic fall events around the Georgia coast. Join us as a volunteer and share the natural wonders of the reef with the community. Click here to register your interest with Volunteer Coordinator Jody Patterson. 

These public events are family friendly and offer free admission! Immerse yourself in Georgia’s coastal beauty and learn about our fascinating underwater world.

Coastfest (Oct 6) Brunswick, GA – hosted by GA Dept of Natural Resources Coastal Resources Division

Skidaway Marine Science Day (Oct 13) Savannah, GA – hosted by UGA Skidaway Institute of Oceanography

A Fishy Affair – Malicious, but delicious

The Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary Foundation will host the fourth annual lionfish awareness event and fundraiser A Fishy Affair on September 21st at the Landings Plantation Club. Join us for a delicious evening of education featuring the invasive Pacific lionfish and including a Chef’s cook-off challenge, a silent auction and live auction benefiting the Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary Foundation. Tickets are on sale now!