July is Habitat Month at NOAA Fisheries! All month long, we’ll be sharing how we protect and restore habitat to sustain our nation’s fisheries, recover endangered species, and support coastal communities.
NOAA conserves habitats like wetlands, rivers, and coral reefs to support fisheries—but habitat isn’t valuable just for the home it provides for fish and wildlife. Healthy habitats help keep our drinking water clean, protect us from storms and flooding, and support industries like boating and fishing. From jobs to seafood to tourism, coastal habitats are vital to America’s national and local economies.
Follow us here and on X (formerly Twitter) (@NOAAHabitat, #HabitatMonth). You can also stay up-to-date on our latest habitat conservation stories all year long by subscribing to HabitatNews.
Habitat Features
NOAA-Funded Research Highlights Economic Effects of Oyster Reef Restoration
Scientists at Morgan State University forecast that restored oyster reefs—especially when paired with eelgrass recovery—boost habitat, blue crab harvest, and the economy.
Innovative Coral Restoration Begins in Hawaiʻi After Ship Grounding
Scientists are testing rubble stabilization as a coral restoration technique in the coastal waters of Hawai‘i for the first time, with promising results. It involves securing loose, broken parts of the reef to the seafloor so corals have a stable surface to grow. The process has given a disintegrated reef system a new chance to recover.
Learn more about the coral restoration
Oyster Restoration Investments Net Positive Returns for Economy and Environment
A report by the North Carolina Coastal Federation shows that NOAA and our partners’ investment in oyster restoration produces almost double the amount in economic and environmental benefits. For every $1 spent on oyster reef restoration, the state sees $1.70 in return.
Read about the economic report
Oyster Reef Restoration in the Chesapeake Bay: We're Making Significant Progress
Together with partners in Maryland and Virginia, we're working to restore oyster reef habitat around the Chesapeake Bay. We're making great progress toward our goal to restore reefs in 10 tributaries by the end of 2025.
Learn more about oyster reef restoration in the Chesapeake Bay
Restoring Habitat and Engaging the Recreational Community through the National Fish Habitat Partnership
In 2024, NOAA Fisheries funded several projects to restore habitat in collaboration with recreational anglers through the National Fish Habitat Partnership. Our partners have made considerable progress on this work, actively engaging local communities—including anglers—to conserve fish habitat.
Learn about the project progress
Habitat 101
Oyster Reef Habitat
Oysters are a crucial component of global ocean health. These animals filter and clean the surrounding water and provide habitat, food, and jobs. Today, however, oyster populations are at historic lows. NOAA works with partners to restore oysters and regain the critical ecosystem functions they provide.
Learn about the importance of oyster reef habitat
Shallow Coral Reef Habitat
Coral reefs are the most diverse habitats on the planet. Reefs occur in less than 1 percent of the ocean, yet are home to nearly one-quarter of all ocean species. They also provide jobs, tourism and recreation opportunities, seafood, wave protection, and more.
Learn more about shallow coral reefs
River Habitat
Rivers provide important benefits like drinking water, irrigation, and more. As homes for fish, plants, and wildlife, rivers are essential for the survival of many species—including our own.
Coastal Wetland Habitat
Wetlands are a pivotal part of the natural system, providing tremendous benefits for coastal ecosystems and communities. They provide us with clean water, flood protection, abundant fisheries, and more.
Learn more about coastal wetlands
Habitat Videos, Podcasts, and Story Maps
Video: Community Members Restore Hawaiʻi Coral Reefs and Reconnect with Traditional Hawaiian Ecological Practices
With support from NOAA, Kuleana Coral Restoration is training Native Hawaiians and community members in coral reef restoration. Join us as we meet a group of community members taking part in Kuleana's COAST program.
StoryMap: Oyster Reef Restoration in the Chesapeake Bay
In the Chesapeake Bay, there are only about 1 percent as many oysters as there used to be. To help the oyster population and the fish and other critters that depend on it, NOAA and partners are working together to restore oyster reefs in 10 Chesapeake Bay tributaries.
Podcast: Teaching Kids to Fish and Love the Water
NOAA Fisheries and partners are working with communities in South Carolina to get kids involved in fishing and environmental conservation.
