On March 23, Governor Kulongoski issued an Executive Order directing the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) to serve as lead agency for the marine reserve recommendation process. ODFW will work with the Ocean Policy Advisory Council (OPAC) to identify nine or less marine reserve 'study areas' by Jan 1, 2009. The nomination process will be supported by local nearshore action teams, comprised of coastal residents, ocean users, and other interested parties. Marine reserves are places in the ocean that are protected from human impacts, including extraction and habitat damage. Science shows that reserves almost always result in greater abundance, size, and diversity of marine organisms inside their boundaries. Please join a coalition of ocean users that's participating and supporting this process. On April 21, the OPAC Marine Reserve Workgroup will meet in Lincoln City with opportunities for public comment. For more info on Oregon's planning process http://www.oregonmarinereserves.net/. For info to get involved pstauffer@surfrider.org.