In the Leslie Lab at the University of Maine, we focus on the connections among people and coastal marine ecosystems. As marine conservation scientists, we use a combination of field experiments, modeling, and other approaches grounded in both the ecological and social sciences to investigate how diverse factors, including climate variability and changes in economic and regulatory regimes, influence ecosystem and social interactions and outcomes. Our ultimate aim is to provide scientific knowledge and tools that can help inform marine management that benefits both nature and people.

We hope that fellow researchers as well as our partners in education, policy making and community-based management will find something of interest on this site. If you are interested in learning more or exploring a way to work together, please contact us!