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

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

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 Lake states. As part of this national network, Maine Sea Grant focuses on the state’s coastal communities and sponsors scientific research and development of the marine workforce.

Zydlewski is also a faculty member in UMaine’s 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 include workforce development and educational opportunities such as the Maine Ocean School, as well as a mystery segment involving Gulf of Maine megafauna.

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

Visit dmc.umaine.edu for a list of featured speakers and topics. For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, call 207.563.8135.