National Marine Sanctuaries Forever Stamp 2022
Commemorating the National Marine Sanctuary System: A Tribute to America's Underwater Treasures
The National Marine Sanctuaries of the United States and the diverse array of creatures and historic artifacts they safeguard are celebrated through a collection of 16 distinct stamp designs.
Purpose of the Stamps:
Issued to mark the 50th anniversary of the National Marine Sanctuary System, these stamps honor the vital role these sanctuaries play in protecting marine ecosystems and cultural heritage.
Stamp Designs:
Each stamp features a captivating photograph captured at one of the sites within the National Marine Sanctuary System. The reverse side of the pane of 16 stamps showcases an illustrated map of the sanctuary system, crafted by Todd M. Detwiler.
First Day of Issue Ceremony:
The inaugural ceremony took place at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center in Santa Cruz, California, commemorating the significance of this milestone anniversary.
Historical Significance:
Established on October 23, 1972, by the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act, the National Marine Sanctuary Program aims to safeguard America's underwater treasures. The program's first sanctuary, USS Monitor National Marine Sanctuary, was designated on January 30, 1975.
In 2022, the United States Postal Service paid tribute to this program's 50-year legacy with a set of 16 Forever stamps. These stamps showcase scenes from various sanctuaries within the system, which collectively protect over 620,000 square miles of U.S. waters, including areas in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, as well as the Great Lakes.
Administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), national marine sanctuaries serve to preserve the extraordinary beauty, biodiversity, and historical significance of America's underwater wonders. Through scientific research, cultural preservation efforts, and volunteer initiatives, these sanctuaries contribute to the conservation and appreciation of our marine environments.
By ensuring the protection of vulnerable ecosystems, national marine sanctuaries enable future generations to continue enjoying the wonders of our oceans and lakes, along with the rich biodiversity they harbor.
