New York’s U.S. Congressman Lee Zeldin has received the National Sea Grant Award from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Sea Grant Program for his continued support of this national coastal science association. New York Sea Grant Director and SBU Professor Bill Wise presented the award to him in Washington, DC, on March 7 along with SGA President Jim Hurley. New York Sea Grant is headquartered at Stony Brook University.
New York Sea Grant (NYSG) is a statewide network of integrated research, education and extension services promoting coastal community economic vitality, environmental sustainability and citizen awareness about the state’s marine and Great Lake resources. Last year when federal funding for the non-profit Sea Grant program was eliminated from the budget, Congressman Zeldin was instrumental in securing full funding of $72.5 million for the program through a bipartisan appropriations request. He continued to fight during this year’s budget so that such critical funding will continue to be provided. In addition, he secured more than 100K in funding for NYSG to support the seafood and aquaculture industry and to foster relationships between the industry and next generation of fishermen and other seafood professionals.
“Representing a district almost completely surrounded by saltwater, funding to support our fishermen, our oyster growers, protect our beaches, and support marine science research is essential for our local economy and environment,” said Congressman Zeldin. “The Sea Grant Association plays a critical role in securing and providing this funding to the Long Islanders who rely on it most, and it is such an honor to receive this award from such a worthwhile organization.”
“New York Sea Grant and the coastal residents, businesses and communities our program serves are thankful for Congressman Zeldin’s support,” said NYSG Director Bill Wise. “This national network has existed for over 50 years thanks to Congressional budget support like this.”
Each year NYSG supports millions in university-based research related to a variety of marine, Hudson estuary, and Great Lakes topics and issues. Results and resources from these investigations —conducted by top-notch physical oceanographers, food scientists, benthic ecologists, aquatic toxicologists, fisheries modelers, geochemists, and others — provide useful information to the public, businesses, and managers. Sea Grant research also sets benchmarks within the scientific community, advancing the state of knowledge in many fields.
To learn more about New York Sea Grant, please visit www.nyseagrant.org
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