June 8th is World Oceans Day, a day recognized by the United Nations as one of ocean celebration and action. People and organizations around the world mark this day as one to mobilize and unite communities for the sustainable management of the World Ocean. Oceans are a major source of food and medicines, critical for navigation, commerce and defense; provide opportunities for new forms of energy development; and are a critical part of the biosphere. This year’s theme is Healthy oceans, healthy planet, and ocean and coastal regions worldwide are focusing on strategies to improve the health of our oceans.
Here at MARCO we celebrate this day as a reminder of our mission to sustain the long-term health of the Mid-Atlantic’s ocean resources and to enhance the vitality of the region’s ocean ecosystem and economy. We hope that everyone in the region has a chance this week to enjoy the spectacular ocean treasure we all share. We wish you all a very happy World Oceans Day!
MARCO at Capitol Hill Ocean Week
New MARCO Exhibit Banners
As part of World Ocean Day celebrations this week, MARCO will be hosting an exhibit and Portal Kiosk at the 2015 Capitol Hill Ocean Week (CHOW). This will be the launch of our new expanded exhibit display and we hope to engage a broad cross-section of decision makers and the U.S. ocean community.
Hosted by the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, CHOW brings together Members of Congress, representatives of state and local governments, academics, business experts, scientists and ocean explorers. It’s one of the year’s best opportunities to network with colleagues interested in marine policy, ocean science and what’s happening along the coast.
We invite you to come by the Exhibit for a sneak peak at the Mid Atlantic Ocean Data Portal‘s fresh look, new tools and enhanced features. Rumor has it that Starbucks gift cards will be awarded to 10 lucky visitors that can correctly identify ocean use map layers on display!
MARCO at MAFMC
MARCO will also be attending the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council‘s June 2015 meeting this week in Virginia Beach, VA. Although our exhibit display will be busy in DC, be on the lookout for our Executive Director Kate Killerlain Morrison, MARCO Chair Laura McKay and Jay Odell of the MARCO Portal team in the halls and sessions throughout the event.