Sea Grant director to discuss ‘Marine Science for Maine People’ at DMC

Gayle Zydlewski
Gayle Zydlewski

Gayle Zydlewski will talk about “Marine Science for Maine People: With a Surprise or Two” at 10:30 a.m. July 12 in Brooke Hall at the University of Maine Darling Marine Center in Walpole.

Zydlewski directs the Maine Sea Grant College Program, a state-federal partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Maine Sea Grant is one of 33 NOAA Sea Grant programs in the coastal and Great Lakes states. As part of the national network, Maine Sea Grant focuses on the state’s coastal communities and sponsors scientific research and development of the marine workforce.  

Zydlewski also is a faculty member in the UMaine School of Marine Sciences. Her research involves human influence on fish behavior and population dynamics related to renewable power development. She works closely with industry and natural regulatory agencies to inform policy and management of water resources.

The talk will highlight how Maine Sea Grant engages community members to inform research, specifically marine renewable energy, aquaculture and fisheries. Zydlewski’s discussion will touch on workforce development and educational opportunities, including the Maine Ocean School in Searsport, as well as a mystery segment involving Gulf of Maine megafauna.

The event is part of the DMC’s science seminar series. The free public talks are held Fridays through Aug. 16. They feature faculty, students and alumni. Presentations provide opportunities to discuss current marine research that advances understanding of marine ecosystems and the human communities that are part of them. 

Visit the DMC website for a list of featured speakers and topics. For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, call 563.8135.