New York colleges, universities, and degree-granting institutions with interests in marine and coastal science research and education created a new platform for collaboration and advocacy
STONY BROOK, NY, September 19, 2008 – Today representatives from 26 New York colleges, universities, and degree-granting institutions with expertise and interest in marine and/or coastal science convened at Stony Brook University to found the New York Marine Sciences Consortium, a collective association that will be the voice for the marine science community and contribute through research and education to reshaping the state’s policies for stewardship of aquatic environments.
“This is a critical period for the stewardship of New York’s coastal resources and environments,” said Dr. David Conover, Dean of Stony Brook’s School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences and newly elected director of NYMSC. “The legislation that created the New York Ocean and Great Lakes Ecosystem Conservation Council (OGLECC) in 2006 set the state on an ambitious, bold new course toward managing New York’s marine resources in a holistic, ecosystem context. The NYMSC will facilitate active participation in this endeavor by New York academic institutions by helping institutions coordinate activities that promote scientific support for management decisions and educate students and the public about the need for a sustainable approach to managing our aquatic resources.”
At the founding meeting, it was agreed that Stony Brook University will be the host institution for the New York Marine Sciences Consortium and there will be shared governance by a board composed of representatives from each member institution. Through a Web site, annual conference, and other collaborative activities, the NYMSC will help the academic community exchange information and share resources, expertise, and knowledge across institutions.
The New York Marine Sciences Consortium is a new platform for New York’s marine science community to advocate shared interests in communicating science, influencing public policy, and increasing funding for the marine sciences within New York.
“By fostering even better collaboration, the NYMSC will help New York’s marine science community collectively strive to find solutions to the challenges that New York’s coastal communities face,” said Dr. Conover.
More information about NYMSC and a complete list of member institutions can be found at www.somas.stonybrook.edu/~nymsc
