Green Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR)
Protecting the World's Largest Freshwater Estuary
Learn MoreBig News for the Green Bay NERR Designation!
On behalf of the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, we invite you to attend an upcoming public hearing on the proposed designation of the Green Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR).
UW-Green Bay is leading the State of Wisconsin's efforts to establish a National Estuarine Research Reserve on the Bay of Green Bay. The proposed Green Bay NERR would join a national network of 30 reserves across the United States, including the Great Lakes. These reserves support research, education, stewardship, and the protection of estuaries and coastal wetlands.
We have reached an important milestone in the designation process. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has released the Draft Environmental Impact Statement and Draft Management Plan for public review and comment. These documents evaluate the proposed designation and outline plans for future research, outreach, and stewardship activities.
The Draft Environmental Impact Statement and Draft Management Plan are available for review through the Federal eRulemaking Portal. Written public comments will be accepted through Monday, December 21, 2026.
UW-Green Bay will host two public hearings on Thursday, December 10, 2026, to provide information about the proposed reserve and receive public comments:
Virtual Public Hearing
Thursday, December 10, 2026
10:00 a.m. CT
Join via Zoom: (for security reasons, please email fishr@uwgb.edu for directions to access the Zoom link)
In-Person Public Hearing
Thursday, December 10, 2026
2:30 p.m. CT
S.T.E.M. Innovation Center
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
2019 Technology Way
Green Bay, WI 54311
Both hearings will cover the same information and provide opportunities for public comment. Registration is not required. Please note that the in-person hearing will not be broadcast or available virtually.
We welcome your participation in either hearing and encourage you to share this opportunity with your constituents and others who may be interested in the proposed Green Bay NERR. Thank you for your continued interest in the Green Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve designation process. We look forward to this next step in the designation process.
a one-of-a-kind Ecosystem
The NERR helps nurture work to address environmental issues in our communities.
The National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERR) is a national network of 30 sites across the coastal U.S., including the Great Lakes, designed to protect and study estuaries and their coastal wetlands. With funding and guidance from the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), we can begin new efforts to preserve this one-of-a-kind freshwater ecosystem. It's not just knowledge for the sake of knowledge; it's science that matters, with benefits ranging from education to economy.
Locally Relevant, Nationally Significant
With the NERR designation, we can address local coastal management issues like changing water levels, PFAS and harmful algae blooms while elevating the national and international visibility of Green Bay.
Protect Our Environment
Following the $1.5 billion cleanup and PCB removal of the Fox River from 2004 to 2020, the Reserve will lead and support efforts to restore critical habitats and protect the health of local waters, such as the ongoing work on the Lower Green Bay Area of Concern, whose boundaries overlap with proposed Reserve areas.
Promote STEM Education
There are 100+ schools within easy reach of the proposed Reserve, creating opportunities for K-12 students to learn through educational programming, field trips and hands-on science.
Contribute to Local Economy
As an example of impact, the Apalachicola NERR in Florida receives about 30,000 visitors each year and the built facilities are a regional hub for outdoor recreation. We imagine something similar for us. Visitors could stop in and learn about the best places to bird watch or hike, be connected to an on-site kayak outfitter or meet with a fishing guide.
Encourage Cultural Heritage
Collaborating with Tribal partners, the Reserve will highlight and honor Wisconsin's First Nations' deep historical and cultural connections to the bay of Green Bay through education programs, seasonal events, historical exhibits and community-driven art projects.
Test Out Advanced Technology
Through the Reserve, researchers will get access to a testing ground for cutting-edge tools and technology for environmental monitoring, data analysis, remote sensing, archiving, public accessibility and educational outreach.
Inform Local Policy
Local decision makers will learn science-backed strategies to address pressing environmental issues, such as emerging contaminants, water quality and coastal flooding and infrastructure.
Water Runs Through It
Water touches all aspects of our lives and communities.
Wisconsin sits on ~20% of the world’s surface freshwater and 90% of the nation’s freshwater, which will increasingly become the envy of regions not so blessed. For our state, water is an integral part of our lives not just in science but also in historical connections, art and storytelling, and economic importance both in the past and for our future. Together with scientists, artists, museum directors and local policy makers, the NERR will champion our communities and celebrate NE Wisconsin's cultural heritage.
By the Numbers
Each Reserve is a partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and focuses on protecting the surrounding community.
30 Protected Places
There are 30 protected places across the U.S., ranging from Alaska to Puerto Rico. That's about 1.4 million acres of public land and waters, including 4,500 miles of waterfront and diverse habitats. 95% of Reserves allow recreational fishing; 85% allow hunting.
$41.8 Million
Established through the Coastal Zone Management Act, the Reserves represent a partnership program between NOAA and the coastal states. NOAA provides funding and national guidance, and each site is managed daily by a lead State agency or university with input from local partners.
37,726 Acres
The Bay of Green Bay NERR is comprised of 10,630 acres of land/wetland, and 27,096 acres of open water. A group with local, State and Tribal representatives identified existing publicly owned land so there is no increase in local public taxes or funding required.
Explore the Boundaries
Look at our interactive map to see the Proposed Natural Area Site and where it is in relation to the Green Bay NERR areas.
Connect with Us!
Extra, extra! Read all about it! Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date about upcoming programs, updates about NERR designation and more.
Stay Up to Date
The NERR is always making a splash in the news.
Ask an Expert
Meet Emily Tyner, Director of Freshwater Strategy and the lead behind NERR designation. With research experience from the Great Lakes to Lake Malawi in Africa, she's dedicated to improving water for communities. If you have questions about the NERR, she can help.