Public Policy in the Aquatic Sciences
In January 2000, ASLO opened its Washington, DC office in order to better engage aquatic scientists in policy decisions and to inform ASLO members regarding aquatic science policy. Dr. Adrienne Sponberg is the ASLO Director of Public Affairs. ASLO also has a Public Policy Committee, which is currently chaired by Rachel Noble of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
ASLO members interested in policy matters receive regular news updates and "Action Alerts" that cover policy actions in the US, Canada and the European Union. An example of the areas covered by a policy news update is shown below.
March-April 2008
- Appropriations Update: FY2009 budget moves forward, NSF may get boost for FY2008
- Long awaited oceans legislation on the move
- Congressional debate over wetland and stream protection continues
- House passes ballast water provision to halt species invasions
- Ocean fertilization issue of contention at UN marine biodiversity meeting
- European Research Area Green Paper receives broad stakeholder support
read more: Members Policy Page