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Dear Sea Grant Stakeholders,
Sea Grant is a unique organization in many ways. After completing an annual review of our 32 college programs earlier this month, many of the assets that set us apart and add value to our NOAA colleagues, were made evident. In future issues, I'll share more about these unique assets (and their dividends) in areas such as renewable energy, green development, seafood technologies and more; and, I'll illustrate some of the ways we're helping coastal communities thrive during economically challenging times. Today, however, I want to highlight a national investment that is helping us navigate the legal intricacies of issues related to our coasts: The National Sea Grant Law Center.
Founded in 2001, and located at the University of Mississippi School of Law, the National Sea Grant Law Center (NSGLC) conducts and disseminates legal research and analysis on current ocean and coastal issues ranging from governmental takings to ballast water to aquatic invasive species to drilling for natural gas. The type of research conducted by the NSGLC is rare in the legal profession. Because the NSGLC does not represent clients or causes, the Law Center is able to approach legal issues from a neutral and un-biased position, in keeping with Sea Grant's non-advocacy role.
The results of NSGLC research are shared with Sea Grant stakeholders through newsletters, listserves and conference presentations--all of which are freely available to the public online. Here is a sampling of resources available from the NSGLC that I hope you will find useful in your work:
During our annual review this month, we were joined by several of our colleagues from the National Ocean Service who praised the NSGLC for its responsiveness and professionalism, and for its role as a trusted resource for clear, cogent information on important issues.
Given the increasing complexity of the coastal issues our nation is confronting, an understanding of the legal underpinnings of these issues is integral to our ability to act as effective stewards. We invite you to learn more about the NSGLC and about the Sea Grant Legal Network (whose members include the NSGLC, four state Sea Grant legal programs and several associate members). To learn more about the wealth of Sea Grant legal resources, please visit: http://nsglc.olemiss.edu/legal.htm
Regards,
Leon M. Cammen,
Director, National Sea Grant College Program
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
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