The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is moving forward with the process for designating Lake Ontario as a national marine sanctuary.

The initiative was originally proposed by representatives from surrounding counties in 2017.

The sanctuary status would provide protection for the lake's marine life, along with research and educational opportunities.

The area under consideration contains 64 known shipwrecks and one aircraft, representing events spanning more than 200 years of the nation's history. 

Based on historical records, another 20 shipwrecks and three aircrafts may also be located there.

"I’ve long recognized the importance of this designation and have been a vocal advocate for it," Representative John Katko said in a statement. "I applaud NOAA for ushering this process along and releasing its draft plan this week."

Local communities now have the opportunity to share their feedback during NOAA’s public comment period, which runs until September 10.