Track III: Coastal Ecosystem Science for Maine’s Marine Economy & Coastal Communities
PI: Leslie, Heather (Darling Marine Center, UMaine)
Sector: Marine Science
Partners: UMaine Machias, University of Southern Maine
Abstract: Coastal ecosystems are of great value. They provide food and clean water, protection from coastal storms, and also are home to some of the most productive ecosystems on the planet, fueling seafood and tourism industries valued at more than $5B per year in Maine alone. To ensure a continued flow of benefit from healthy marine ecosystems to the communities and local economies that depend on them, we need knowledge of how these systems work. We also need to build capacity of the next generation of coastal ecosystem scientists, managers, and citizens. This Undergraduate Research Collaborative focused on Coastal Ecosystem Science will catalyze innovative ecosystem science of direct benefit to Maine’s marine economy and coastal communities. It will also contribute to developing the next generation of marine scientists and managers, by enhancing the technical, communication, and collaborative skills of the students, researchers, and industry professionals engaged in these projects.