The newly established Research Natural Area (RNA) of Dry Tortugas National Park is a 46 square mile marine reserve designed to restore ecological integrity and capacity for self-renewal by minimizing human disturbance. The RNA complements the adjacent Tortugas Ecological Reserve of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS) established by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the state of Florida and contributes to a region-wide effort to strengthen resource protection. Together the RNA and the larger Tortugas Ecological Reserve will help to ensure the success of both marine and terrestrial ecosystems while offering outstanding opportunities for scientific research and public education.

The Dry Tortugas National Park Final Rule published in the Federal Register Notice December 20 2006 that describes the RNA can be viewed by clicking here.

There are a number of park fact sheets about the what the Dry Tortugas Research Natural area is and the science at Dry Tortugas National Park that provide additional information.