Sea State: Climate Resilience Potential in Gulf of Maine Fisheries

The Gulf of Maine is warming faster than many of the world’s oceans, but its productivity is driven by a unique combination of factors—global currents, ocean floor, and more—that create a dynamic and resilient environment. This complexity could be the key to its ability to withstand climate change. Similarly, the coastal communities along its shores have demonstrated remarkable resilience, adapting to change and overcoming challenges with determination.
The Gulf of Maine Research Institute, alongside our partners, is committed to building on this resilience in both the ecosystem and the people who call it home. This fall’s Sea State series will explore our efforts to foster resilience and share reasons for optimism about the Gulf’s future and the communities that rely on it.
Fisheries in the region have been challenged by rapidly warming waters and there are concerns about whether they may exist by the end of this century. In this lecture, Senior Research Scientist Graham Sherwood, Ph.D will speak to his 20 years of working in the Gulf of Maine, and how some of our most recognizable fishery species, like cod, pollock, and herring, may exhibit built-in adaptation potential that may make them resilient to warming waters. He will be joined by Zach Whitener, who will present details of his recent voyage exploring these populations in the Gulf of Maine.
Doors will open at 5:30 pm with complimentary refreshments available and the program will begin at 6:00 pm. Free parking is available for all registered attendees in the lot adjacent to our building.

About the Speakers:

• Graham Sherwood, Senior Scientist, GMRI
• Zach Whitener, Senior Research Associate, Vessel Safety Officer, GMRI

Host or Publisher Gulf of Maine Research Institute