Mallows Bay-Potomac River

The remains of a wooden shipwreck is partially exposed above the water near a forested shoreline. The shipwreck remains are colonized with dense vegetation.

Click on individual links below to learn more about the immediate science needs for critical management issues. For a full list of management issues and science needs, please review the MPNMS Management Plan. To contact us about the science needs described below, contact the Sanctuary Research Coordinators.

Climate Change

Monitoring the myriad impacts of climate change on ecological and maritime heritage resources, including the longevity of sanctuary shipwrecks, is a priority for Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary management. (Updated January 2023)

Habitat Assessment

Assessing habitats, identifying the species present, and analyzing the ecological niches that characterize biological resources is important for providing a baseline to inform the Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary co-management team. (Updated January 2023)

Maritime Cultural Heritage Resource Management

Documenting and monitoring maritime cultural heritage resources are critical components of Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary management and will improve understanding of the story of the sanctuary and surrounding area. (Updated January 2023)

Maritime Cultural Landscapes

Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary has a rich maritime cultural landscape, which includes historical, cultural, and natural resources and human habitation dating back thousands of years. A complete and rigorous analysis of this landscape, inclusive of all peoples through time and their connection to the maritime resources, is an important management goal. (Updated January 2023)

Water Quality

Assessing water quality and monitoring any changes both spatially and temporally are important for protecting biological and maritime heritage resources in Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary. (Updated January 2023)