Connecting Landlocked Communities to Ocean Conservation Efforts

By Katie Sheahan | April 1, 2026

The ocean covers more than 70% of our planet's surface and its marine life, like abundant phytoplankton, produce over 50% of Earth's oxygen (Katiyar & Sarangdhar 2025, Falkowski et al., Jahan  & Singh 2023). Like myself in Colorado, many landlocked communities feel disconnected from the ocean’s vastness and the pressing issues it faces. “Out of sight, out of mind” often really applies here, and it’s understandable when we can’t bring the ocean to those who have never visited. I grew my love for marine science by visiting aquariums and zoos, and while conservation-minded places like these are important for public education, we can’t replicate the complexities of the ocean, from waves to deep sea trenches, or grasp how connected we are to it, no matter the physical distance separating us from it. This disconnection can lead not only to a lack of awareness and engagement in ocean conservation efforts, but can reinforce the idea that we are separate from nature and not wholly dependent on it. It’s crucial, now more than ever, to bridge this gap and connect landlocked communities to the ocean. A healthy human population relies on a healthy planet, and vice versa, but Earth will outlast us. It’s crucial to take the first steps now to protect the ocean on which we depend. We’ll kick off the Oceans at Elevation blog by exploring the importance of ocean conservation, the unique challenges faced by landlocked communities, and practical ways we can foster a connection between these communities and the ocean.

What is “Ocean Conservation”?

Ocean conservation refers to the protection and preservation of marine ecosystems and resources. It encompasses a wide range of activities aimed at maintaining the health of oceans, including:

• Protecting marine biodiversity: Ensuring the survival of various species and their habitats.

• Reducing pollution: Addressing issues like plastic waste and chemical runoff that harm marine life.

• Sustainable fishing practices: Promoting methods that do not deplete fish populations or damage ecosystems.

• Climate change mitigation: Recognizing the ocean's role in regulating climate and taking steps to reduce carbon emissions.

The health of our oceans is vital not only for marine life but also for human survival. Oceans provide food, regulate climate, and support livelihoods for millions of people worldwide. Therefore, engaging landlocked communities in ocean conservation is essential for fostering a holistic approach to environmental stewardship.

Challenges Faced by Landlocked Communities

Landlocked communities often face unique challenges that can hinder their connection to ocean conservation efforts:

1. Geographical Isolation: Being far from the coast can create a perception that ocean issues do not affect them directly. This distance can lead to a lack of understanding about the importance of oceans and marine ecosystems.

2. Limited Access to Resources: Many landlocked regions may lack the resources or infrastructure to engage in ocean conservation activities, such as educational programs or community initiatives.

3. Cultural Disconnect: In some cases, cultural factors may contribute to a disinterest in ocean conservation. Communities may prioritize local environmental issues over global ones, viewing ocean health as a distant concern.

4. Economic Factors: Economic challenges can limit the ability of landlocked communities to participate in conservation efforts. When basic needs are not met, environmental issues may take a backseat.

Diving in to Ocean Education

Building ocean awareness doesn’t have to start on the coast. Even here in Colorado, there are ways to connect with the ocean and the people working to protect it. Through Oceans at Elevation, I offer education and workshops designed to bring marine science to landlocked communities and make ocean conservation feel accessible, relevant, and local. If you’re not in Colorado, there are likely similar opportunities near you worth exploring:

• Educational Initiatives: Education is a powerful tool for raising awareness about ocean conservation. Implementing educational programs in schools and community centers can help landlocked communities understand the importance of oceans. These programs can include:

  • Workshops and Seminars: Invite marine biologists and conservationists to speak about ocean health and its relevance to landlocked communities.

  • Interactive Learning: Use multimedia resources, such as documentaries and virtual reality experiences, to immerse participants in marine environments.

  • Field Trips: Organize trips to coastal areas or aquariums to provide firsthand experiences of marine ecosystems.

• Community Partnerships: Collaborating with local organizations can enhance the effectiveness of conservation efforts. By partnering with environmental groups, schools, and businesses, landlocked communities can:

• Host Events: Organize beach clean-ups, awareness campaigns, or fundraising events to support ocean conservation initiatives.

• Create Local Chapters: Establish local branches of national or international conservation organizations to facilitate ongoing engagement.

• Leverage Local Knowledge: Encourage community members to share their experiences and insights, fostering a sense of ownership over conservation efforts.

• Utilize Technology: Technology can bridge the gap between landlocked communities and the ocean. Here are some ways to leverage technology for ocean conservation:

  • Virtual Ocean Tours: Use online platforms to offer virtual tours of marine environments, allowing landlocked individuals to explore the ocean from their homes.

  • Social Media Campaigns: Create engaging content that highlights ocean conservation issues and encourages community involvement.

  • Mobile Apps: Develop apps that provide information on ocean health, conservation tips, and ways to get involved.

Keeping the Ocean Close

Even in the middle of Colorado, the ocean leaves its mark. Here’s how life far from the coast still touches the sea:

• Freshwater Ecosystems: Rivers, lakes, and streams link inland communities to the ocean. Water flowing through these systems carries nutrients, sediments, and pollutants all the way to the sea. Understanding this connection highlights why protecting local waters matters not just for Colorado, but for the health of oceans worldwide (Lamberti et al. 2010, Saunders et al. 2016).

• Climate Change: Climate change doesn’t stop at the shoreline. Rising sea levels, shifting weather patterns, and more extreme storms affect inland communities too. Observing these changes at home reinforces the global nature of ocean health and the shared responsibility to act (Goldman et al. 2013, Myers et al. 2017).

• Economic Ties: Healthy oceans support coastal communities and drive global economies. Landlocked towns can benefit from sustainable seafood markets, eco-tourism, and conservation-driven initiatives, showing that caring for the ocean can create opportunities at home as well as abroad (Cai et al. 2025, Lynch et al. 2016)

How Landlocked Communities Make Waves

You don’t need a coastline to have an impact. These communities have found clever ways to connect with ocean conservation and are stepping up to protect the sea:

• The Great Lakes Region: The Great Lakes, located in North America, are the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world. Communities surrounding the Great Lakes have recognized their connection to ocean health and have implemented various conservation initiatives, including The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, a program aimed at protecting the Great Lakes ecosystems by reducing pollution and restoring habitats.

• Landlocked Countries in Africa: Countries like Uganda and Zambia have made strides in ocean conservation by focusing on their freshwater resources. They have implemented sustainable fishing practices, promoting responsible fishing methods in lakes and rivers to ensure the health of aquatic ecosystems. Local NGOs like Kyoga‑Nile Waterkeeper in Uganda and Water for Water (WfW) in Zambia have launched community awareness campaigns to educate communities about the importance of water conservation and its impact on ocean health.

The Ripple Effect

Being far from the coast doesn’t mean you can’t make a difference for the ocean. Every community has ways to protect water, support conservation, and stay connected to the sea. By noticing how local rivers, lakes, and freshwater ecosystems link to the ocean, we can see that what we do at home really matters. Whether it’s joining local stewardship programs, learning about sustainable practices, or spreading awareness, even small actions ripple outward. Even from miles inland, we all have a role in keeping the ocean healthy and thriving.

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