Press Releases

Scientists begin to unlock secrets of deep ocean color from organic matter
May 17, 2017
About half of atmospheric carbon dioxide is fixed by ocean's phytoplankton through a process called photosynthesis. A large portion of biologically fixed carbon is formed by picocyanobacteria at the sea surface and then transported to the deep ocean. But what remains a mystery is how colored dissolved organic matter which originates from plant detritus (either on land or at sea) makes it into the deep ocean. A team of scientists has potentially found a viable marine source of this colored material.

Chesapeake Bay Report Card shows steady Bay health recovery
May 8, 2017
The overall health of Chesapeake Bay improved in 2016, a positive sign that recovery efforts are working. The largest estuary in the nation scored a C grade (54%) in the 2016 report card, one of the highest scores calculated by scientists at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES). In addition, fish populations greatly improved to an A (90%). Scientists are encouraged by these improvements in health despite many pressures on the Chesapeake Bay and across the watershed.

Scientists track porpoises to assess impact of offshore wind farms
May 5, 2017
A new study is the first in a series to understand how marine mammals like porpoises, whales, and dolphins may be affected by the construction of wind farms off the coast of Maryland.

Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology invites public to Open House, Saturday, May 6
May 2, 2017
Have you ever wondered what happens in that unusual building with the tent-like roof at the Inner Harbor? Science happens! The Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology opens it doors to the public for a free Open House on Saturday, May 6, 1-4 p.m. to share the research that is happening at the harbor’s edge. Enjoy hands-on activities for kids all ages, meet our scientists, and discover how work being done in Baltimore is helping to change the world.

Mario Tamburri receives highest university award
April 21, 2017
Research Professor Mario Tamburri, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) faculty member and director of the Alliance for Coastal Technologies and the Maritime Environmental Resource Center, has received a 2017 USM Regents’ Faculty Award for Excellence in Public Service, the highest honor that the Board bestows to recognize exemplary faculty achievement.

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