Maryland Sea Grant
Maryland Sea Grant is administered by the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the State of Maryland, and is dedicated to protect and restore Maryland's coastal resources. Both on its own and in collaboration with its many partners, Sea Grant proactively addresses the scientific, economic, and social challenges facing the Chesapeake Bay. Research efforts bolster understanding of major commercial species, including the oyster, blue crab, and striped bass, and bring scientists and managers together to design new ecosystem-based fisheries management regimes. Other research informs a big-picture view of Chesapeake Bay plankton dynamics, expanded awareness of invasive species, enhanced understanding of underwater grass beds, and refined knowledge of how nutrients cycle through the ecosystem. Educational programs support graduate fellows who work directly with Sea Grant-funded researchers, and sponsor undergraduate summer students in a Research Experiences for Undergraduates program.
Maryland Sea Grant provides environmental science education through an 'Aquaculture-in-Action curriculum', online interactive lessons, and science fellowships for teachers. Working with the seafood industry, Maryland Sea Grant Extension specialists enhance products and packaging and conduct economic analyses that help guide policies regarding seafood processors and the workforce. Watershed specialists, who work collaboratively with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and other partners, help deliver information and assistance at the community level aimed at restoring the Bay's tributaries.
The National Sea Grant College Program (Sea Grant) works to create and maintain healthy coastal environments and economies. The Sea Grant network includes 32 programs based at top universities in every coastal and Great Lakes state, Puerto Rico, and Guam. The programs of the Sea Grant network work together to help citizens understand, conserve and better utilize America’s coastal, ocean and Great Lakes resources. One of four national strategic priorities through 2013 is to improve the resilience of coastal communities to hazards, including the effects of climate change. NOAA Sea Grant plays local and national roles to inform policy and management, help communities prepare for climate impacts, and support economic resilience and opportunity. See the National Sea Grant College Program organization entry for more information.
Phone: (301) 405-7500
Sectors:
Related Organizations:
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
- National Sea Grant College Program (Sea Grant)
- University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science
Related Resources:
