Gray’s Reef is situated on the mid-continental shelf along the South Atlantic Bight, a region of the Atlantic Ocean defined by a gradual bend in the coastline stretching from North Carolina’s Outer Banks to Cape Canaveral, Florida.
More than 900 species of invertebrates—animals without a backbone—have been identified at Gray’s Reef by Sam Gray [link to 2.1.7.1] and others. Invertebrates may lack a spine, but they are the backbone of ocean communities along the coasts of the southeast U.S.
Jimmy Carter served as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981. He was awarded the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for work to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development. President Carter designated four national marine sanctuaries during his term: Channel Islands, Point-Reyes Farallon Islands, Looe Key, and Gray’s Reef.
Gray’s Reef is a live-bottom reef off the coast of Georgia.
Divers are important stewards of Gray’s Reef and we appreciate your help to protect this beautiful national treasure.
Privacy Policy of Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary
Joe Ferguson was the director of the National Geographic Society Education and Outreach Program. Ferguson and Ann Judge were accompanying three teacher-student pairs as part of the Sustainable Seas Expeditions from Washington, D.C. to Los Angeles, CA. The flight they were on—American Airlines Flight 77—was hijacked and flown into the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. Ferguson was 39.
Safely tucked away in the Atlantic Ocean, Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary is cared for and treasured by divers, anglers, scientists, and conservationists. NOAA designated the area as a national marine sanctuary in 1981 because of its diversity of species and abundance of marine life.
Make the most out of your trip to Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary with this interactive fishing guide. Learn about sanctuary regulations, and state and federal fishing regulations, how to fish responsibly within the sanctuary, and how to log your catch with some of the available apps for the Georgia coast.
Gray’s Reef is a popular location for recreational diving and fishing. Recreational divers and anglers like yourself play a vital role in keeping the sanctuary habitats healthy for generations to come. Support your sanctuary by practicing sustainable diving and fishing techniques.
