Addressing major marine issues facing Oregon and the world
Oregon State researchers work around the globe, using lessons learned here and abroad to both strengthen the university and to extend its global impact.
Oregon offers an unparalleled living-learning laboratory with diverse ecosystems, including a 300-mile coastline.
The Marine Studies Initiative worked to weave together the natural and social sciences and arts and humanities in an exceptional education, research, and outreach program to explore all facets of the marine environment and its dynamic connections to terrestrial ecosystems and the atmosphere, while positively impacting economic and social progress.
By building on our world-class programs and forming networks of expertise that span scientific, political, and socio-cultural disciplines, the Marine Studies Initiative advanced university leadership in marine research and scholarship to help sustain healthy oceans and all who depend on them.
OSU Research Centers on the Oregon Coast
- OSU Seafood Lab in Astoria
- Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport
- Port Orford Field Station in Port Orford
We expanded and enhanced facilities to provide environments that encouraged creative collaborations, leveraged the university's strengths, and had meaningful impacts. This included the new Gladys Valley Marine Studies Initiative building at the Hatfield Marine Science Center. Learn more about the Marine Studies Building HERE.
Many programs strengthened the Marine Studies Initiative
Oregon State's research centers, institutes, and other interdisciplinary groups brought together scientists from multiple fields of study for joint research projects clustered around the university's three priority areas:
- Advancing the science of earth ecosystems
- Improving human health and wellness
- Promoting innovation and economic prosperity
Learn more at about OSU research centers and institutes HERE.
Envisioning a Resilient Oregon Coast
Coastal communities around the world face challenges related to both chronic (sea level rise/storms) as well as acute (earthquake/tsunami) hazards. Individuals, communities, and agencies can respond in ways to reduce the consequences of these hazards by either: (1) minimizing the initial impact (ex-ante), or (2) increasing the response/recovery following an event (ex-post). Recent studies [1] have shown that at a national level, an average of $6 can be saved for every $1 spent on ex-ante measures.
For more details visit Oregon Coast Futures.