Date: Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 12:00pm EDT

Speaker: Jennifer Bennet, NOAA OAR Ocean Acidification Program Office

Abstract: The Ross Sea, one of the most productive Southern Ocean regions, accounts for a substantial proportion of global primary production and is responsible for up to one fourth of the C0₂ export in this ocean. Both primary and export production in this region are thought to be mediated by the interaction of light and iron (Fe) bio-availability. Future climate change may produce significant changes in the mixing-irradiance regime, and in the supply of macro- and micro-nutrients, in the highly productive waters of the Antarctic continental shelf. In this context, there is a pressing need to understand the responses of the major groups of Antarctic phytoplankton to such environmental changes. The diatom Fragilariopsis cylindrus is a prolific species on the Antarctic shelf, inhabiting both sea-ice (low irradiance) and open-water (high irradiance) regimes. Laboratory culture experiments were performed to examine the growth and physiology of this diatom under nutrient-replete conditions at irradiances of 5-500 µE m^-2 s^-1, on both acute and long term timescales. These allowed the sub-optimal, optimal, and supra-optimal irradiance for growth (5, 100, and 500 µE m^-2 s^-1, respectively) to be assessed for this species, under which growth at varying Fe concentrations (0 - 1000nM Fe-EDTA) could then be examined. Cell number, biovolume, photosynthetic efficiency (F_v/F_m) and effective absorption cross section of PSII (S_PSII), photosynthetic and photoprotective pigments, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and intracellular particulate dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSPP) were measured in these experiments. The results indicated that F. cylindrus maintained relatively high growth rates (µ= 0.1-0.4) over a wide range of irradiance levels under nutrient replete conditions, probably using various physiological mechanisms including xanthophyll cycling and decreasing effective absorption cross section at higher irradiance. These mechanisms were also employed during iron manipulation experiments at the various irradiances, accompanied by an approximate 25% decrease in growth rate (µ) values. DMSPP levels (up to 60 mM) may also be serving as an antioxidant free-radical scavenging pool under both iron and light stress, thereby preventing oxidative damage, within the photosynthetic apparatus. DMSP is readily converted to dimethyl sulfide (DMS) which serves as cloud condensation nuclei, contributing to the climate feedback loop. These higher than previously recorded intracellular DMSPP concentrations, in addition to the ability of F. cylindrus to grow at higher irradiances could have implications for regional carbon and sulfur cycles.

Note: This seminar is part of the 2012 Sea Grant Knauss Fellows Brown Bag Seminar Series

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 12:30pm EDT

Speaker: Annie Yau, NOAA OAR Office of the Assistant Administrator

Abstract: Many marine populations are managed at small spatial scales (tens to hundreds of kms), as in the example of small-scale fisheries. A major difficulty in managing and modeling marine populations at small spatial scales is the unknown amount of self-recruitment occurring: larvae that settle within a small spatial area may have come from local adults (self-recruitment), or may be offspring of adults outside of the small spatial area (external recruitment). Without knowing where larvae are coming from, it is difficult to model patterns in population abundance. I modified an ecological population model (Integral Projection Model, IPM) to account for uncertainty in self-recruitment at small spatial scales, and used that model to determine that a small-scale fishery for giant clams in French Polynesia is sustainable at the present rate of fishing. I also determined a method for setting a minimum size limit that maximizes harvest while sustaining population abundance, despite uncertainty in self-recruitment. I generalized this method beyond giant clams to organisms with a variety of different life history characteristics. Overall, size limits can optimize (or nearly optimize) harvest in small-scale fisheries, and populations can be modeled and managed at small spatial scales in the face of uncertainty regarding the amount of self-recruitment.

Note: This seminar is part of the 2012 Sea Grant Knauss Fellows Brown Bag Seminar Series

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Thursday, May 3, 2012 at 12:00pm EDT

Speaker: Tali Vardi, NOAA NMFS Office of Science and Technology

Abstract: Fossil data from multiple locations indicates that Atlantic elkhorn coral, Acropora palmata, formed shallow reefs throughout the Caribbean Sea since the Pleistocene. Beginning in the 1980s A. palmata has declined to a small fraction of its formerly vast extent throughout the region. In 2006, elkhorn coral was the first coral, along with its sister species, staghorn coral (Acropora cervicornis), to be included on the U.S. Endangered Species List. We used size-based matrix modeling to parameterize annual A. palmata population dynamics in Florida, over the course of one severe hurricane year (2005) and six calm years (2004, and 2006-2010), incorporating environmental stochasticity as inter-annual variability. We predicted that benthic cover would remain at current levels (4%) for the foreseeable future (until 2030) and beyond (until 2100), suggesting a lack of resilience following the 2005 hurricanes. Standard metrics for the quantification of number and size of individuals are essential to endangered species management. These usually straightforward tasks can be challenging for clonal, colonial organisms. Acropora palmata presents a particular challenge due to its plastic morphology and frequent fission. We quantified three-dimensional colony surface area (CSA), the most ecologically relevant measure of size, for 14 prototypically arborescent A. palmata colonies using three-dimensional digital imaging software. To relate CSA to simple field metrics, we compared log-likelihood values and determined that planar projection was the best predictor. The, tight, linear relationship between planar projection and CSA enables ecological rates, such as reef accretion and gamete production, to be calculated from field data. Finally, we expanded the matrix population model to compare population dynamics in several locations across the Caribbean. The general trend for Acropora palmata is further reductions in population size by 2030. The most striking difference we quantified was between Jamaica, where population size is projected to increase, and all other locations, where population size is projected to remain stable or decline. Density of a key herbivore, the sea urchin Diadema antillarum, was an order of magnitude greater in Jamaica than in any other location. These increases are occurring 30 years after a devastating die-off suggesting that herbivory by urchins may facilitate A. palmata recovery.

Note: This seminar is part of the 2012 Sea Grant Knauss Fellows Brown Bag Seminar Series

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Thursday, May 3, 2012 at 12:30pm EDT

Speaker: Deborah Fauquier, NOAA NMFS Office of Protected Resources, Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Program,

Abstract: Harmful algal blooms (HABs), especially those caused by the red tide organism, Karenia brevis, a dinoflagellate that produces brevetoxins, occur frequently along Florida’s west coast, causing episodes of high mortality in fish, sea turtles, birds, bottlenose dolphins and manatees. Although K. brevis blooms are known to cause episodes of mass mortality among marine vertebrates, it is not known whether this disturbance results in significant declines in bird populations or changes in community structure. This study investigated the extent that brevetoxicosis contributed to morbidity and mortality in stranded sea birds and we investigated the impact K. brevis blooms had on the local abundance and habitat use of piscivorous birds in the Sarasota Bay estuary. Blood or fecal samples were collected from debilitated birds on admission to a rehabilitation hospital from 4 February 2005 through 28 November 2006. Dead birds were necropsied and tissues collected for histopathology. A competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect brevetoxins was performed on all collected samples. For the field study, data were obtained by conducting boat-based seasonal surveys of birds, K. brevis cell counts, and water quality during red tide and non-red tide conditions. Summer and winter surveys were conducted in four habitats between 20 June 2006 and 2 September 2009. Periods of high K. brevis concentrations (>10⁵ cell l^-1) occurred during February to December 2005, summer 2006, and winter 2007. Testing of blood, biological fluids, and tissues for brevetoxin by ELISA found toxin present in 69% (n=95) of rehabilitating sea birds with the highest values reported in double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus). Among sea birds that died or were euthanized the highest brevetoxin concentrations were found in bile, stomach contents, and liver. Most dead birds had no significant pathologic findings at necropsy, thereby supporting brevetoxin-related mortality. In the field over 34,000 bird observations were obtained involving over 20 different species. The most abundant bird species were double-crested cormorants, laughing gulls (Larus atricilla), and brown pelicans (Pelecanus occidentalis). Overall bird densities were lower during red tide conditions than they were during non-red tide conditions. In particular, the abundance of double-crested cormorants decreased in all habitats during red tide conditions. In contrast, brown pelicans and laughing gulls increased in abundance in certain habitats during red tide conditions and rebounded to lower abundances by 2008. It is probable that cormorants are consuming different prey than pelicans and gulls and may be exposed to a higher dose of toxin leading to increased morbidity and mortality and lower abundances during red tide events.

Note: This seminar is part of the 2012 Sea Grant Knauss Fellows Brown Bag Seminar Series

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 12:00pm EDT

Speaker: Jennifer Bennet, NOAA NMFS Ocean Acidification Program Office

Abstract: TBD

Note: This seminar is part of the 2012 Sea Grant Knauss Fellows Brown Bag Seminar Series

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Thursday, April 19, 2012 at 12:00pm EDT

Speaker: Michelle Walsh, NOAA NMFS Office of Sustainable Fisheries - Domestic Fisheries Division

Abstract: Conditioning is the process of providing individuals reared for stock enhancement with some degree of "natural" experience prior to release. Conditioning flatfish in predator-free cages may help adjustment to the wild. From 2008-2010, Obama Laboratory conducted pre-release, experimental cage conditioning for Japanese flounder in both the Takahama and Obama portions of Wakasa Bay, Japan. Recaptured fish were acquired through a cooperative effort between researchers and local fishermen. The objectives were to describe how characteristics of released flounder changed with cage exposure and to determine how recapture rates compared between conditioned and non-conditioned fish. Significantly more conditioned fish were recaptured than non-conditioned fish in Obama Bay in 2010 (p < 0.05). In 2008 and 2009, recapture rates of conditioned and non-conditioned flounder followed the same trend, although these were not significantly different. Laboratory experiments revealed that conditioned fish had significantly better burying abilities (p < 0.001) and enhanced feeding abilities compared to non-conditioned fish. This study is the first to examine flatfish conditioning strategies using market data and shows that cage conditioning can favorably alter the attributes and recapture rates of released fish.

Note: This seminar is part of the 2012 Sea Grant Knauss Fellows Brown Bag Seminar Series

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Thursday, April 19, 2012 at 12:30pm EDT

Speaker: Eric MacMillan, NOAA NMFS Office of Habitat Conservation

Abstract: This study provides species-specific catch and baseline mortality estimates of non-target species (by-catch) for the Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron commercial trap net fishery. By-catch can represent a significant mortality source that is often unknown. By-catch and by-catch mortality rates in the Saginaw Bay commercial trap net fishery, which primarily targets lake whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis), yellow perch (Perca flavescens), and channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), are currently unknown. From May through August 2010, we observed onboard commercial trap net vessels and took species-specific counts of by-catch and estimated initial bycatch mortality (i.e., morbid or floating fish). The high levels of walleye (Sander vitreus) catch and mortality observed within inner Saginaw Bay have not been previously documented in the Laurentian Great Lakes. Walleye by-catch averaged 127.3 individuals per trap net lift and 42% of those caught were morbid. The levels of lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) catch observed were within the range observed in previous studies, but mortality (percent) was higher than has been previously observed. Lake trout by-catch averaged 39.4 individuals per lift and 39.2% of those were morbid. Through the use of generalized linear models, this analysis also indicated factors that most influenced catch of non-target species including time of year and soak time (i.e., time interval between trap net lifts). Surface water temperature and trap net depth most influenced mortality. These results may inform fishers and fisheries managers and highlight the need for comprehensive by-catch monitoring throughout the Great Lakes.

Note: This seminar is part of the 2012 Sea Grant Knauss Fellows Brown Bag Seminar Series

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Friday, April 20, 2012 at 12:00pm EDT

Speaker: Dr. Colleen Mercer Clarke, coastal ecologist and landscape architect, University of Ottawa

Abstract: For over 100 years governments, academia, industry and community-based organizations throughout the world have monitored oceanic and coastal environments by collecting and recording data on multiple biological, chemical and physical parameters. Yet despite advances in fisheries management, pollution abatement technologies, and the creation of marine protected areas, conditions in most of the world's oceans continue to decline, sometimes dramatically. In 2010, to tackle these complexities, and disparities, and to ensure that the knowledge gained from CHONe research was effectively applied to policy and decision-making, CHONe embarked on an initiative to develop a framework for oceans and coastal health for Canada. Efforts concentrated on the standardization of widely used, but too often ambiguous terminology, and on the identification and incorporation of useful approaches and tools derived from the efforts and experience of Canadian as well as international initiatives. The proposed Framework is a science-based approach to defining, monitoring, assessing, rating and reporting on the status and trends in ocean and coastal health in Canada.

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Thursday, April 12, 2012 at 12:00pm EDT

Speaker: Evan Bloom, US Department of State

Abstract: Mr. Bloom will speak on "Current Legal and Policy Issues Related to Antarctic Diplomacy" and provide an overview of the Antarctic Treaty system with a focus on topics such as establishment of marine protected areas in the Southern Ocean, regulation of tourism, and enforcement of environmental regulations, including liability rules.

Note: This seminar is sponsored by the International Section of the NOAA General Counsel Office.

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Wednesday, April 4, 2012 at 12 noon EDT

Speaker: Ellen Pikitch, Executive Director of the Institute for Ocean Conservation Science and Professor at the Stony Brook University School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences

Abstract: Forage fish, or small schooling fish such as anchovies and sardines, play a critical role in the marine food web as prey for larger fish, seabirds, and marine mammals. Markets for fish meal and fish oil to support the growing aquaculture and farm animal industries have placed these species under increasing commercial pressure. The Lenfest Forage Fish Task Force was established to develop and recommend ecosystem-based standards for the sustainable management of forage fisheries.

Thirteen preeminent scientists with expertise in a wide range of disciplines conducted a comprehensive examination of the science and management of forage fish populations. Their research explored whether conventional management of these species poses substantial risks of population crashes and contributes to declines of their predators. Ellen Pikitch, the Task Force Chairperson, will share key results from the report, which include specific management recommendations for forage fish species.

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Thursday, April 5, 2012 at 12 noon EDT

Speaker: Stephanie Shipman and Valerie Caracelli, Applied Research Methods Team, Government Accountability Office

Abstract: Dr. Stephanie Shipman and Dr. Valerie Caracelli of the Government Accountability Office (GAO) will discuss the recently released report, Designing Evaluations: 2012 Revision, (GAO-12-208G) (pdf) which will serve as a reference in GAO and federal agency evaluation offices. This revision reflects performance measurement and evaluation thinking and practice post-GPRA, and the expansion of program evaluation to the full range of federal programs and policies. The guide introduces key issues in planning evaluation studies of federal programs and describes a variety of evaluation designs for answering different types of questions about program performance - from examining the implementation of national programs to assessing the effectiveness of specific practices and interventions. The guide is a tool for planning useful evaluations and developing educated consumers of evaluation.

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Thursday, March 15, 2012 at 12 noon EST

Speaker: Mark Spalding, President, Ocean Foundation

Abstract: Fundamental changes in sea water chemistry are occurring throughout our oceans. Serving as the world’s largest natural carbon sink, the ocean absorbs about a quarter of the CO₂ released into the atmosphere each year. As carbon emissions increase, a greater amount of carbon dissolves in the ocean, altering the pH level and causing the ocean to be more acidic. This relatively sharp increase in acidity has significant implications for marine ecosystems and the human activities dependent upon such resources. Unfortunately, no specific international law targeting the regulation of ocean acidification exists today. This seminar will discuss the regulatory gaps and the possible application of extant legal tools to regulate the carbon emission behavior of key nations to address ocean acidification.

Note: This seminar is sponsored by the International Section of the NOAA General Counsel Office.

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Thursday, February 16, 2012 at 12 noon EST

Speaker: Ron Regan, Executive Director, Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies

Abstract: This seminar will focus on the work of state fish and wildlife agencies in habitat conservation through the lenses of the North American Model of Fish and Wildlife Conservation, the National Fish Habitat Partnership, and the work of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. Policy and state-federal partnership opportunities will be explored.

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at 12 noon EST

Speaker: Dwayne Meadows, Species of Concern National Program Coordinator, Office of Protected Resources, NMFS

Abstract: Do you want to learn how to give better talks and presentations? Impress leadership with your thoughts and ideas? But you find yourself bored by typical self-help manuals and presentations by droll experts? Do you forget all that sage advice when crunch time on your next presentation arrives? Then come hear Dwayne Meadows update of a classic tongue-in-cheek guide for giving better presentations and learn from the (mostly real) mistakes of others.

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Thursday, February 9, 2012 at 12 noon EST

Speakers: David Downes, Assistant Director for Policy in DOI's Office of International Affairs; and a panel from DOI's Office of the Solicitor

Abstract: We will begin with an brief overview of DOI international programs ranging from migratory bird conservation to Earth observation, presented by David Downes, Assistant Director for Policy in DOI's Office of International Affairs. A panel from DOI's Office of the Solicitor will discuss legal issues relating to DOI international programs, with particular reference to marine issues and law of the sea. Speakers will include Michael Young, Assistant Solicitor for Fish and Wildlife; Maria Lurie from the Parks Branch; and Milo Mason from the Division of Mineral Resources.

Note: This seminar is sponsored by the International Section of the NOAA General Counsel Office.

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Wednesday, February 1, 2012 at 12 noon EST

Speakers: Current NOAA AAAS S&T Fellows and their mentors; AAAS staff

Abstract: American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Science & Technology Policy Fellows are competitively-selected, Ph.D. level scientists, social scientists, and engineers from a broad range of disciplines. These Fellows are available for placement in federal agencies for a 1-2 year term (renewal year can include details outside of the DC area). The Program, in existence since 1973, has an outstanding national reputation with many former Fellows occupying some of the highest positions in science policy throughout the federal government. AAAS currently partners with over 15 federal agencies, many Congressional offices and committees, and nearly 30 professional scientific societies to operate the Science & Technology Policy Fellowships.

NOAA has hosted 12 AAAS Fellows since it began participating in the Fellowship Program in 2007. The Fellows offer scientific and technical expertise as they assist with projects, program management, or policy analysis. Fellows start work after two weeks of intense training in science policy (including ethics, the legislative process, and the budget process) and are supported throughout their two years with professional development activities. AAAS Fellows also serve as a link to a network of science and science policy professionals across academia and government, including a network of over 2,500 current and former Fellows.

The recruitment process for 2012-2013 AAAS Fellows is already underway, and prospective host offices must act soon to participate. At this information session, current AAAS Fellows and AAAS program staff will share details about the program, insights about their experiences, upcoming deadlines in the recruitment process, and answer your questions. Because the renewal year of the Fellowship can include details outside of the DC area, regional offices and labs are encouraged to participate via webinar.

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Friday, January 27, 2012 at 12 noon EST

Speaker: Dr. Jane Lubchenco, Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and NOAA Administrator

Abstract: Dr. Lubchenco invites all NOAA employees to participate in an open dialogue on future NOAA science. What should our research priorities be given ongoing fiscal challenges? How can we improve the climate for NOAA science? As we face increasingly challenging economic and social times, we must be selective and strategic in delivering the greatest value to the Nation. We also must communicate the merit of NOAA science effectively to decision makers and the public. Dr. Lubchenco will offer some thoughts on future NOAA science, including how we might better frame it for the public and decision makers. Please bring your ideas for future NOAA research priorities and ways we can strengthen the way we talk about and share our science with the world.

Note: This seminar celebrates the 500th Brown Bag Seminar given at the NOAA Central Library since the seminar series' inception in 1994.

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at 12 noon EST

Speakers: Trevor Riley, NOAA PPI; Joan Moumbleaux, NMFS Habitat Restoration Division; and Chris Belter, NOAA Central Library

Abstract: In today's information-rich environment, effectively managing information is critical to success. Embedded librarians and information professionals can assist in this process by creating information management solutions tailored to unique organizational needs. This seminar will present three case studies of how embedded librarians are already assisting NOAA program offices. Trevor Riley will discuss his work within the office of Program Planning and Integration, including the management of shared electronic workspaces, research, and development of new information architecture public websites. Joan Moumbleaux will discuss her information management work on the Deepwater Horizon Oil spill; specifically how she identified the Restoration Center’s business needs, determined information governance and management, and insures security in a litigation hold environment. Finally, Chris Belter will discuss his role in tracking, publicizing, and performing bibliometric analyses on publications supported by NOAA's Office of Ocean Exploration and Research in order to help demonstrate the Office's value to NOAA.

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Wednesday, January 25, 2012 at 12 noon EST

Speaker: Bryan Wood-Thomas, Vice-President, World Shipping Council

Abstract: Please join us on Wednesday, January 25, 2012, from noon to 1:00 p.m. in the NOAA Central Library (SSMC3, 2nd Floor) for a brown bag presentation on regulating carbon emissions from ships. Bryan Wood-Thomas, Vice-President of the World Shipping Council and former Associate Director of EPA’s Office of Transportation and Air Quality, will address the current global debate on how to regulate carbon emissions from shipping with a focus on the primary options under debate, the economic motivation of the parties, and the political and legal questions that arise in certain scenarios. Bryan will also discuss the anticipated impacts of the North American Emission Control Area, an area designated by the International Maritime Organization in 2010 that encompasses coastal and ocean waters around North America out to 200 nautical miles. Beginning in August 2012, ships in this area must comply with more stringent air pollution limits for NOx, SO2 and particulate matter

More information about the North American Emission Control Area can be found at http://www.epa.gov/otaq/regs/nonroad/marine/ci/420f10015.htm.

Bryan Wood-Thomas’ bio can be found at http://www.worldshipping.org/about-the-council/council-management/bryan-wood-thomas.

Note: This seminar is sponsored by the Office of General Counsel for International Law.

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 at 12 noon EST

Speaker: Dr. Tim Essington, Associate Professor, Aquatic & Fishery Sciences, University of Washington

Abstract: NOAA issued its Catch Share Policy in November 2010 to provide guidance and direction on these programs as fishery management tools to build and maintain sustainable and prosperous U.S. fisheries and healthy ocean ecosystems. Yet, we still don’t know the types of ecological benefits they provide to fisheries, and the types of fisheries where these benefits are most likely. Dr. Timothy Essington, Dr. Mike Melnychuk and their colleagues, supported by the Lenfest Ocean Program, conducted the most comprehensive study to date on the effectiveness of catch share programs in achieving fisheries management objectives, comparing the impacts of catch shares for 345 stocks around the world, including many U.S. stocks. The team was the first to discover that the most prominent effect of catch shares was more predictability and less variability in ecological metrics.

Using statistical approaches to tease out the impacts of catch shares from other factors influencing fisheries health, the researchers found no evidence that catch share programs significantly improved the population size of the fish. They did find, however, that catch share programs often increased the predictability of hitting quota targets and can reduce the frequency of overfishing, making catch shares useful tools for better managing fisheries.

The results of this body of research may help guide NOAA and the regional fishery management councils in decisions about new policies or management options for implementing catch share programs.

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Thursday, January 19, 2012 at 12 noon EST

Speaker: Christina Hoefsmit, U.S. Coast Guard, Marine Transportation System Directorate

Abstract: The Arctic’s extremes, both in climate and geography, have shielded it from many of the modern advances that have influenced much of the world. However, time is quickly catching up with the Arctic. Promising prospects and the decreasing extent of summer sea ice have heightened interest in Arctic offshore oil and gas resources, commercial shipping, tourism and other activities, providing new opportunities and a longer seasonal window. Increasing access and a changing geopolitical status has prompted some commentators to suggest a global "race" for Arctic resources and the need for a comprehensive Arctic treaty analogous to the Antarctic Treaty System that governs Antarctica. Despite the similarities that exist between Antarctica and the Arctic they are fundamentally distinct such that the application of governance mechanisms similar to Antarctica’s would be inappropriate. Rather than a global "race," current governance mechanisms, chiefly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), provides for the orderly resolution of most Arctic issues. In addition, several other international agreements and organizations exist to resolve issues not covered under UNCLOS. Consequently, a new comprehensive governance mechanism akin to the Antarctic Treaty System is unnecessary.

Note: This seminar is part of the 2011 Sea Grant Knauss Fellows Brown Bag Series

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Thursday, January 19, 2012 at 12:30pm EST

Speaker: Becky Blanchard, Office of Marine Conservation, Department of State

Abstract: Oysters are often imbued with qualities of danger and desire. Yet these affective and sensory elements are increasingly imbricated with the technical and mundane: interstate commerce rules, laboratory testing, and food processing technologies. In 2009, the Food and Drug Administration proposed a ban on the sale of raw oysters harvested from the Gulf of Mexico from spring through fall. The proposal, which has led to dramatic changes in shellfish management and processing, was spurred by public health concerns related to Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterial pathogen that causes the deaths of approximately 15 U.S. consumers each year. This presentation is based on 14 months of ethnographic fieldwork in Apalachicola Bay, Florida, a community that produces 10% of the nation’s oysters. The proposed ban, and the measures that have been taken to prevent it, may have a particularly significant impact on oyster harvesters in Apalachicola Bay due to the historical effects of resource tenure regimes on local industry structure. Debates about food safety are also debates about society and governance. This presentation examines the discourses of risk and freedom underlying the controversy over V. vulnificus and its control, as well as implications for particular actors, livelihoods, identities, and ecologies.

Note: This seminar is part of the 2011 Sea Grant Knauss Fellows Brown Bag Series

Remote access via webinar will be available.

Date: Tuesday, January 10, 2012 at 12 noon EST

Speaker: Michael Osmond, Senior Program Officer, World Wildlife Fund

Abstract: Bycatch is among the most problematic aspects of modern fishing from a conservation perspective. In addition to the sheer volume of bycatch globally, unselective fishing poses an extinction threat to numerous species of ocean wildlife and threatens the commercial viability of a number of mainstream fisheries. In recent years, improvements to fishing gear and practices have played an important role in reducing bycatch, as modifications have increased the chances for non-target species to escape or avoid capture altogether. In response to the bycatch concern, World Wildlife Fund (WWF) initiated the first International Smart Gear Competition in 2004-2005, with the goal of identifying innovative and practical modifications, to currently used gear with potential for significantly reducing bycatch. The competition, which now offers cash prizes totaling $57,500, has been held five times and attracted more than 330 entries from 50 countries worldwide. It has also served as a positive way for conservation interests to cooperate with industry and a cornerstone for cross-sector collaboration between NGOs, industry and government.

Remote access via webinar will be available.