Lake Erie

About this sanctuary

Discover the wonders of Lake Erie through the proposed Lake Erie National Marine Sanctuary, a haven of approximately 740 square miles spanning from Pennsylvania’s scenic shoreline to the Canadian border. Along the 75-mile shoreline of Erie County, you’ll encounter six townships, two boroughs, and the vibrant city of Erie. With a vision to harmonize shipping and commercial activities, the sanctuary nomination seeks to exclude the Port of Erie from its boundaries. A testament to the area’s rich maritime history, Erie County, Pennsylvania submitted a nomination in 2015, and NOAA is now carefully considering the sanctuary designation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Erie as you explore this protected sanctuary, preserving not only its natural treasures but also a nationally acclaimed collection of shipwrecks. Join us in celebrating and safeguarding Lake Erie’s maritime heritage at the proposed Lake Erie National Marine Sanctuary.

Lake Erie is a region abundant in historical and cultural significance, where the relationship between human activities and the maritime environment has shaped its identity, creating a profound sense of meaning and place. This connection is expressed and preserved in a diverse array of maritime cultural resources, ranging from revered sacred places and cultural practices to iconic lighthouses and historic shipwrecks. Together, these elements form a vibrant maritime cultural landscape.