Crew members from the Coast Guard Cutter Alert return to the cutter in its small boat July 23, 2021, after conducting vessel boardings during a 60-day fisheries patrol off the coasts of Washington and Oregon. The Coast Guard plays a critical role in preserving and maintaining healthy populations of marine fish by preventing the decline of protected marine species populations, protecting and promoting the recovery of endangered marine habitats, and partnering with other agencies to enhance and sustain marine ecosystems. (U.S. Coast Guard courtesy photo)