Center for Human Health Risk

• Home
  • NCCOS Home
  • Other NCCOS Centers
• About Us
  • History
  • Contact Us
  • Staff Directory
• News & Features
  • Press Releases
  • News Flash Items
• Research
  • Search by Location
  • Search by Stressor
  • Search by Ecosystem
  • Advanced Search
• Publications & Products
  • CHHR/HML Publications & Products
  • NOAA/NCCOS Publications & Products
• Data
  • NCCOS Data
• Opportunities
  • Internship
  • Visiting scholars

• Targeted Science Considered for Sentinel Research

  A National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science scientist co-hosted a session with the NOS’s Estuarine Reserves Division focusing on sentinels of ecosystem condition in coastal environments at the Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation Conference in Portland, Oregon, November 1-5. The session considered that coastal observing programs, though critical for long-term evaluation of ecosystem changes, may not provide comprehensive data sets and critical assessment components necessary to provide early warnings of negative ecosystem and human health impacts. Concentration of resources on targeted sites, habitats, and organisms were discussed as a framework for assessing ecosystem condition and providing early warning of impending impairment to support coastal management needs. Coastal ecosystems are under pressure from climate change and changes in land use associated with growing populations. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or Susan.White@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: November 11, 2009




• Oceans and Human Health Research Supports Public Health Management

  A panel discussion of the relationships between ecosystem services and human health at the National Environmental Public Health Conference, held October 26-28 in Atlanta, Georgia, included a discussion of the role that tidal creeks can play as indicators of human exposure and well-being. A scientist from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science discussed the sentinel habitat conceptual model and presented economic and health data that contributes to it. Additionally, a scientist from a Hollings Marine Laboratory (HML) partner, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, participated in a panel focused on growing healthy seafood. HML participation was supported by the Center of Excellence in Oceans and Human Health and the NOAA Oceans and Human Health Initiative. The conference offered an opportunity to share current research with the environmental health management and research community. For more information, contact Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8933 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: November 11, 2009




• Dolphins and Corals Media Mentions

  Will the Dolphins of Georgia Pass Their Physicals? http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/features/oct09/dolphins.html For more information, contact Lori Schwacke at (843) 725-4821 or Lori.Schwacke@noaa.gov (CHHR) The White Stuff: Marine Lab Team Seeks to Understand Coral Bleaching National Science Foundation News from the Field http://www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jsp?cntn_id=115854&WT.mc_id=USNSF_195 For more information, contact Pam Morris at (843) 762-8803 or Pam.Morris@noaa.gov (CHHR) The White Stuff: Marine Lab Team Seeks to Understand Coral Bleaching National Institute of Standards and Technology Tech Beat http://www.nist.gov/public_affairs/techbeat/tb2009_1020.htm#white For more information, contact Dan Bearden at (843) 762-8865 or Dan.Bearden@noaa.gov (CHHR)
  
  Date Published: November 4, 2009




• Executive Board Convenes Productive Meeting at HML

  The Hollings Marine Laboratory (HML) Executive Board met Friday, October 26, to review accomplishments over the past six months and consider future activities. Next, the Executive Board will further explore the scientific value of HML’s unique nature for all involved. This includes additional joint research planning and budget coordination for maintaining and expanding HML’s science mission linking coastal environmental health and human health. Established by a Joint Project Agreement, the Executive Board consists of National Ocean Service’s Assistant Administrator, the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the Director of South Carolina Division of Natural Resources. Other members include the Medical University of South Carolina and the College of Charleston; all of these members ensure the scientific programs conducted within HML are consistent with its mission and their respective institutional mandates, to periodically review scientific and laboratory operations, and to resolve disputes that cannot be settled by other means. National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science Director Russell Callender attended on NOS’s behalf. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or Susan.White@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: October 28, 2009




• The Good Ship Ocean Watch Sails into Charleston

  Dr. Michael Reynolds, chief of air-sea interaction instrumentation for the vessel Ocean Watch presented a seminar, “Around the Americas 2009-2010” to share the scientific and awareness mission of a cruise with Charleston scientists. The goal of this cruise is to mobilize North and South Americans to take action to improve the health of the oceans. Crewmembers toured the Hollings Marine Laboratory to learn about research focused on health of marine organisms and ecosystems and linkages between healthy oceans, coasts, and people. The cruise photographer and filmmaker captured information that they can share as they continue their trip south along the Western Atlantic towards Cape Horn. You can follow the cruise at the web site http://www.aroundtheamericas.org/. The non-profit organization has principal partnerships with the Pacific Science Center and Sailors for the Sea, and is funded by underwriters such as Tiffany and Co. and Unilever. For more information, contact Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8933 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: October 21, 2009




• Molecular Method Advances Understanding of Novel Bacterial Communities in Dolphin Respiratory Tract

  Respiratory disease is thought to be most the common cause of death in wild and captive populations of bottlenose dolphins, however little is known about the pathogens involved and their mode(s) of transmission. A study by National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science researchers and Hollings Marine Laboratory partners is the first using molecular techniques to describe the bacterial communities associated with the upper respiratory tract of bottlenose dolphins. The use of this tool revealed a diverse bacterial community different from that indicated by culture-based studies as well as the presence of novel bacteria that may represent undescribed species and genera. Although less than <1% of bacteria are culturable, until now our understanding of the bacteria associated with the upper respiratory tract of bottlenose dolphins was based exclusively upon culture-dependent isolations. For more information, contact Pam Morris at (843) 762-8803 or Pam.Morris@noaa.gov and Pat Fair at (843) 762-8533 or Pat.Fair@noaa.gov, or Wes Johnson at (843) 762-8811 or johnsowr@musc.edu.
  Understanding the composition and ecology of the bacterial communities associated with the respiratory tracts of marine mammals will advance our understanding of their respiratory health and may lead to better prediction, diagnosis, management, and prevention of respiratory disease in marine mammals and people.
  Date Published: October 14, 2009




• Publications

  Johnson, W.R., M. Torralba, K. Nelson, G.D. Bossart, P.A. Fair, and P.J. Morris. 2009. Bacterial diversity of the bottlenose dolphin upper respiratory tract. Environmental Microbiology Reports, DOI: 10.1111/j.1758-2229.2009.00080.x ---------------------- Boroujerdi, A., M. Vizcaino, A. Meyers, E. Pollock, S. Huynh, T. Schock, P. Morris, D. Bearden. 2009. NMR-Based Microbial Metabolomics and the Temperature-Dependent Coral Pathogen Vibrio coralliilyticus. Environmental Science and Technology. DOI: 10.1021/es901675w
  
  Date Published: October 14, 2009




• Scientists Participate in Annual NOAA Oceans and Human Health Meeting

  Scientists associated with the Center of Excellence in Ocean and Human Health (OHH) or the Center or Human Health Risk, both at Hollings Marine Laboratory (HML), participated in the Annual NOAA Oceans and Human Health meeting in Seattle, WA October 5-9. The scientists presented talks and posters within the early warning systems theme areas of seafood safety, beach management, drinking water, sentinel species and sentinel habitats, and the benefits from the sea themes of natural products, pharmaceuticals, and biomedical models. The OHH traineeship program directors and students also presented and discussed their programs. An HML partner, the Medical University of South Carolina, administers one of the programs, the HML Consortium for Research Training in OHH. Scientists from the National Science Foundation OHH Centers also attended. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or Susan.White@noaa.gov, or Lori Schwacke at (843) 762-8811 or Lori.Schwacke@noaa.gov
  
  Date Published: October 14, 2009




• Novel Analytical Technique Better Defines How Microbes Affect Coral Bleaching

  Partners at the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science’s Hollings Marine Laboratory used a Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics approach was to examine the metabolic profile of Vibrio coralliilyticus, a temperature-dependent coral pathogen. Comparisons of NMR spectra of the avirulent (24° C) and virulent (27° C) states of the bacteria indicate differences in several key metabolites involved in multiple metabolic pathways. Reported in the September issue of Environmental Science & Technology, these differences provide new information about the changes in a pathogenic organism’s metabolic activity in response to temperature change. Using NMR-based metabolomics as a tool for understanding these metabolic processes could lead to a better description of V. coralliilyticus and its effects on coral health. For more information, contact Dan Bearden at (843) 762-8865 or Dan.Bearden@noaa.gov, or Pam Morris at (843) 762-8803 or Pam.Morris@noaa.gov.
  During the past few decades, reports indicate that nearly 30% of the worldwide coral population has been severely degraded. NMR-based metabolomics involves the combined use of an unbiased, quantitative analytical method and multivariate statistical tools, offering an effective alternative method for addressing coral disease.
  Date Published: October 7, 2009




• NCCOS Student Scientist Takes First Place in Colloquium

  A National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) student scientist, Melanie Hedgespeth, won first place for her presentation at the College of Charleston’s Graduate Program in Marine Biology, Graduate Student Research Colloquium on September 26, 2009. She presented her research on the presence and fate of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in wastewater discharges and the surrounding marine environment. This research will support the development of risk assessments for PPCPs in the coastal marine environment. For more information, contact Ed Wirth at (843) 762-8903 or Ed.Wirth@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: October 7, 2009




• NCCOS Racks Up Acclamations at 2009 NOS Awards Ceremony

  On September 22, nine National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) employees received NOS-level awards for exceptional achievement in 2008: five for NOS Employee of the Year, two for promoting diversity, and two for peer recognition. This level of distinction attests to NCCOS employees’ tremendous abilities and talents that merit recognition. Two are located in the Center for Human Health Risk at Hollings Marine Laboratory. Peter Moeller: Unique environmental research over the past 18 years on aspects of marine science and natural product chemistry resulting in development of novel technologies and discovery of potentially viable commercial products including sponge-derived anti-biofilm agents, coral microbe-derived antibiotics and antifungals, and anti-fouling agents derived from marine sources. Rick Meitzler: Due to Rick’s outstanding efforts as the NCCOS Environmental Health and Safety Officer, NCCOS facilities maintained an exemplary zero lost time incident ratio for all of calendar year 2008 through the present, or 744,600 personnel hours at all 5 NCCOS locations.
  
  Date Published: October 7, 2009




• Data Integration Leads to Improved Understanding of Climate Impacts on Human Health

  A National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science scientist joined climate and public health experts to discuss approaches for integrating data to better understand and predict impacts of climate change, such as rising temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns. The workshop, “Climate Change and Human Health: Assessing the Climate Information Gap” hosted by NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, North Carolina, September 22-24 brought together 25 experts from the public health, climate and ocean health communities to assess information needs for predicting public health impacts related to climate change. For more information, contact Lori Schwacke at (843) 725-4821 or Lori.Schwacke@noaa.gov.
  Even small changes in climate can change ecosystems and disease ranges and patterns. Understanding the conditions that bring about new incidences of disease in humans and marine animals and changes in marine ecosystems will allow us to predict and better manage both resources and health.
  Date Published: September 30, 2009




• Algae-caused Climate Change Mitigation Shows Complexity of Feedback Loops

  During a cruise to the North Atlantic Ocean, a shipboard incubation system was set up to mimic sea surface temperatures and carbon dioxide levels predicted for these high-latitude oceanic areas by the 2100 (IPCC 2007) and to test feedback loops that may mitigate global warming. When temperatures were increased there was an increase in levels of phytoplankton-produced dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP). When DMSP is increased in the atmosphere, an effect is an increase in reflective cloud cover, potentially reducing sea surface temperatures. However, levels of a specific type of DMSP declined. The difference may reflect changes in the phytoplankton community structure. Additionally, it was observed that the shifts may reduce the export of calcium carbonate relative to particulate organic carbon, a feedback that favors reduced sequestration of atmospheric carbon dioxide. A Hollings Marine Laboratory partner, the College of Charleston, published these results in the August issue of Marine Ecology Progress Series. For more information, contact Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8933 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  Significance: These results highlight the complex responses of marine ecosystems to global warming. Understanding the feedback loops in world’s oceans will help decisionmakers understand the mechanisms in global climate change. Note: see second and third Publications items
  Date Published: September 9, 2009




• September Publications

  P. Lee, J. Rudisill, A. Neeley, J. Maucher, D. Hutchins, Y. Feng, C. Leblanc, J. Rose, S. Wilhelm, J. Rowe, G. DiTullio. 2009. Effects of increased pCO2 and temperature on the North Atlantic spring bloom. III. Dimethylsulfoniopropionate. Marine Ecology Progress Series. 388: 41–49.doi: 10.3354/meps08135. --------------------------------------------------- Y. Feng, C. Hare, K. Leblanc, J. Rose, Y. Zhang, G. DiTullio, P. Lee, S. Wilhelm, J. Rowe, J. Sun, N. Nemcek, C. Gueguen, U. Passow, I. Benner, C. Brown, D. Hutchins. 2009. Effects of increased pCO2 and temperature on the North Atlantic spring bloom. I. The phytoplankton community and biogeochemical response. Marine Ecology Progress Series. 388: 13–25.doi: 10.3354/meps08133.
  
  Date Published: September 9, 2009




• Major Era Ends with Leadership Change

  After ten years at the helm of the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS), Dr. Gary Matlock has moved on to new challenges in NOAA’s Policy, Planning, and Integration Office. Gary’s leadership has laid the foundation for NCCOS by building a modern scientific organization supporting the NOAA mission. Under his leadership, NCCOS built and revitalized major new facilities in NC, SC and AK. He has worked tirelessly to enhance the diversity of NCCOS through partnerships with the Environmental Partnership Program and the Environmental Cooperative Science Center, and has led NOAA in building an award-winning Environmental Management System. He has established new partnerships for NCCOS across the country from tribal consortia in Alaska to universities in Florida and many other organizations in between. NCCOS’s Deputy Director, Dr. Russell Callender, assumed the role of Acting NCCOS Director effective August 31.
  
  Date Published: September 2, 2009




• Bacteria Key to Increased Understanding of a Coral Bleaching Mechanism

  Understanding how bacteria can induce coral bleaching may elucidate strategies to control disease. In the September issue of the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science partners at Hollings Marine Laboratory have described the role of flagella as an important means to initiating infection in a representative coral. The flagellum of the bacteria Vibrio coralliilyticus is critical for movement toward coral mucus and adhesion to the corals to cause infection. This bacterium has been reported to be the causative agent of temperature-induced bleaching in Indo-Pacific corals, the Red Sea, and in the Indian Ocean, and is suspected of similar actions in Caribbean coral. Thus, infections by V. coralliilyticus could have an impact on global coral health. For more information, contact Pam Morris at (843) 762-8803 or Pam.Morris@noaa.gov. (CHHR)
  Significance: During the past few decades nearly 30% of the worldwide coral population has been severely damaged by various diseases. The association of bacteria with corals and their role in diseases such as bleaching may constitute an important contributing factor in the decline of worldwide reef health.
  Date Published: September 2, 2009




• New Publication

  D. Meron, R. Efrony, W. R. Johnson, A. L. Schaefer, P. J. Morris, E. Rosenberg, E. P. Greenberg, and E. Banin. 2009. Role of flagella in virulence of the coral pathogen Vibrio coralliilyticus. Applied and Environmental Microbiology. 75(17): 5704-5707. For more information, contact Pam Morris at (843) 762-8803 or Pam.Morris@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: September 2, 2009




• Scientists Investigate Hypoxic/Anoxic Event in South Carolina

  In a repeat of a 2004 episode, Long Bay, near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is experiencing a hypoxic/anoxic event that started around August 17. A working group of state and federal agency and academic partners, supported by the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science’s skills and resources, quickly responded. The severity of the event has lessened as researchers try to understand the cause. Researchers are collecting data including measurements of fish and phytoplankton, nutrients, organic matter, and water chemistry. In addition, remotely sensed data such as sea surface temperature and chlorophyll have been evaluated. Past events in Long Bay appear to be correlated with upwelling and local stormwater discharges which resulted in enhanced bottom water oxygen demand in the area (Summary of 2004 Event from South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium). The pier fishers are enjoying their large flounder catches as the fish are forced towards the surface to find oxygen. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or Susan.White@noaa.gov, or Denise Sanger at (843) 762-8984 or Denise.Sanger@noaa.gov.
  Significance: Low-oxygen conditions can threaten commercial and other marine organisms and have negative effects on essential habitat. Often these events are caused by combinations of factors which are important for managers to understand and monitor.
  Date Published: September 2, 2009




• Expanding Communications with Minerals Management Service

  Brad Blythe, a Presidential Management Fellow with Department of Interior’s Minerals Management Service, visited the Center for Human Health Risk on August 25, 2009 to learn more about the research activities at Hollings Marine Laboratory (HML). His objectives were to gain a better understanding of National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science activities related to marine spatial planning and the HML partnership and laboratory capabilities. It is necessary that communications are expanded between NOAA researchers and partners and the Minerals Management Service to assess access to potential offshore natural resources in the southeastern Atlantic Ocean. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8993 or Susan.White@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: September 2, 2009




• Collaborative Field Assessment Provides Managers In-depth Dolphin Health Information

  Previous findings of high contaminant concentrations in remotely sampled tissues of dolphins from the coast off of Brunswick, Georgia and near the Sapelo Island Estuarine Research Reserve prompted requests by resource and public health managers for further data. During the weeks of Aug 3-7 and Aug 10-14, NMFS and NCCOS researchers working with the Center of Excellence for Oceans and Human Health at Hollings Marine Laboratory, NOAA Fisheries Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and other partners, successfully conducted assessments for 29 dolphins from along the Georgia coast. The health assessments involved a veterinary examination and medical sampling to examine health endpoints in relation to exposure to high levels of persistent organochlorine contaminants. Dolphins were also fitted with radio transmitters to allow for follow-up monitoring and tracking of movements to better understand contaminant exposure sources. Impacts of contaminants in these areas are the focus of ongoing state and federal assessments. For more information, contact Lori Schwacke at (843) 725.4821 or Lori.Schwacke@noaa.gov, or Eric Zolman at (843) 762-8553 or Eric.Zolman@noaa.gov. (CHHR/CCEHBR)
  
  Date Published: August 26, 2009




• Remote Receiver Network Deployed to Monitor Dolphin Movements

  During the weeks of August 3-7 and August 10-14, a network of 12 remote receivers was deployed along an approximately 90-kilometer stretch of the Georgia coast in order to monitor movements of bottlenose dolphins. The dolphins were tagged as part of a dolphin health assessment study conducted by a collaboration of NOAA Fisheries and National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science researchers working with Center of Excellence for Oceans and Human Health at Hollings Marine Laboratory (HML), NOAA Fisheries Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and other partners. The remote receivers, designed by a researcher from the Medical University of South Carolina, an HML partner, will monitor dolphin tag transmissions and relay detections back to field researchers using cell phone text messaging. Detection data are being collected and logged 24/7 so that movements of dolphins can eventually be correlated with measured tissue contaminant concentrations to provide a better understanding of contaminant sources. For more information, contact Lori Schwacke at (843) 725-4821 or Lori.Schwacke@noaa.gov. [07H00022]
  
  Date Published: August 26, 2009




• NOAA in the Carolinas Planning for 2010 Meeting

  Scientists from the Center for Human Health Risk participated in a “NOAA in the Carolinas (NinC)” Summer Planning Workshop Friday, August 14 at the Coastal Services Center in Charleston, SC. The purpose of this small group workshop was to identify common areas interest on climate adaptation, focus on one (or a few) high-priority issues/areas relating to climate adaptation and to begin to plan for a 2010 NinC Annual Meeting (which will be held in the first quarter 2010) that addresses these high-priority issues/areas. This planning session will assure that the 2010 meeting is tailored to achieve outcomes that are beneficial not only to NOAA but to other organizations within the region. Susan White is a member of the steering committee for NinC. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or Susan.White@noaa.gov or Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8933 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: August 19, 2009




• Phytoplankton Toxin Kills Cancer Cells

  A National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science scientist with partners from the U.S. Department of Agriculture have identified and characterized a powerful fish-killing toxin that has cancer-killing properties. The toxin, called euglenophycin, is found in a unicellular pond organism called Euglena sanguinea, and has a molecular structure similar to a fire ant venom toxin. Laboratory tests have shown that even low concentrations of euglenophycin led to a significant decrease in cancer cell growth, and can kill cancer cells. Preliminary studies demonstrated the toxin highly effective against renal cancer, one of the most challenging cancers to treat. The findings were published in the online July 15, 2009 issue of Toxicon. For more information, contact Peter Moeller at (843) 762-8867 or Peter.Moeller@noaa.gov.
  Significance: This work demonstrates the tremendous potential for discovery of novel and effective new treatments for a variety of human diseases, including cancer, from freshwater and marine organisms and the importance of NOAA and partners’ research to human health and well-being.
  Date Published: August 12, 2009




• Interns Prepare for Future in Coastal and Ocean Science

  The National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science supports summer interns as they learn while doing ecosystem research. Training supported by the Center for Human Health Risk and conducted at Hollings Marine Laboratory is an important aspect in the development of a workforce that benefits NOAA now and in the future. Students in the NOAA Hollings Scholar Program assessed the local economic benefits of healthy ecosystems and a student in NOAA’s Education Partnership Program conducted work in marine environmental metabolomics. Five students participating in the College of Charleston’s Research Experience for Undergraduate Program conducted work in corals biology, phytoplankton ecology, crustacean physiology, and red drum population genetics. Three students in the Medical University of South Carolina’s Summer Undergraduate Program were working on oceans and human health issues using chemistry and genomics biomedical research. For more information, contact Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8933 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  Significance: NOAA science requires a bright and diverse workforce. Training students to conduct and lead this work is important to the future of coastal and ocean marine organism and ecosystem research and policy development.
  Date Published: August 12, 2009




• Fish-Killing Toxin Could Kill Cancer Cells, Joint USDA, NOAA Research IDs Promising Natural Compound

  Joint NOAA/USDA Press Release For more information, contact Peter Moeller at (843) 762-8867 or Peter.Moeller@noaa.gov.
  Publication: Zimba, Paul V., Peter D. Moeller, Kevin Beauchesne, Hannah E. Lane, Richard E. Triemer. 2009. Identification of euglenophycin - A toxin found in certain euglenoids. Toxicon, In Press, corrected proof, available online 15 July 2009. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.toxicon.2009.07.004.
  Date Published: August 12, 2009




• Wanted- NOAA Laboratory Director, Center for Human Health Risk and Hollings Marine Laboratory

  This is a multi institutional facility encompassing federal, state and university partners. Applicants should have excellent leadership skills and experience in developing interdisciplinary research programs, managing complex laboratory facilities, and obtaining extramural and intramural funding. The successful candidate will be responsible for coordination and oversight of the activities of the Center for Human Health Risk at the Hollings Marine Laboratory. A Ph.D. is desirable, but not required, candidates lacking the Ph.D. should document experience in marine environmental and/or physical sciences. The director position is with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Ocean Service, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science Center for Human Health Risk and will be filled at the ZP-5 level (equivalent to GS-15). The Hollings Marine Laboratory is a product of a long-term joint project agreement among NOAA, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the College of Charleston, and the Medical University of South Carolina. This unique state-federal partnership brings together a variety of expertise and allows for the conduct of basic and applied, environmental and biomedical research to create biotechnological applications for sustaining, protecting, and restoring coastal ecosystems, emphasizing linkages between environmental, organism and human health. For more information about the Laboratory see http://www.hml.noaa.gov. The Hollings Marine Laboratory houses 1 of 5 science centers within NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, 1 of the 3 NOAA Centers of Excellence in Oceans and Human Health, as well as the South Carolina Economic Center of Excellence in Marine Genomics. Although the Laboratory is a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration-owned facility, it is a fully collaborative enterprise, governed by the five partner organizations. The facility infrastructure (~102,000 sq ft) supports interdisciplinary research and encourages the sharing of expertise, equipment, space, and other resources. Laboratory space includes: analytical chemistry; cellular-molecular biology and physiology; cryogenic facilities; biological safety laboratories, challenge laboratories; a nuclear magnetic resonance facility; aquaculture facilities; and wet laboratory processing and storage space. Applications must be submitted to USA Jobs - http://www.usajobs.gov/ It is anticipated that the position will open July 1, 2009 and close September 24, 2009. Vacancy Announcement No: NOS-CCOS-2009-0018 or NOS-CCOS-2009-0019
  
  Date Published: August 6, 2009




• Center for Human Health Risk Comes Online Tomorrow

  The National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science’s Center for Human Health Risk will have a new place on the web starting August 6, 2009 at http://www.coastalhealth.noaa.gov. This web address reflects the function of the Center and will highlight its activities and the collaboration occurring among the Hollings Marine Laboratory partners. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or Susan.White@noaa.gov
  
  Date Published: August 5, 2009




• Establishing a Baseline for Assessing Dolphin Health Provides a Tool for Future Analyses

  National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) researchers, in collaboration with the NOAA Fisheries Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program and other partner institutions, performed an integrated analysis, published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research, which establishes statistically robust reference intervals for assessing dolphin health. The reference intervals establish a baseline for ongoing and future dolphin health assessment efforts and will be particularly important for health assessments being conducted in response to Unusual Mortality Events (UMEs) or to determine potential health impacts on dolphin populations associated with chemical contaminant or biological toxin exposure. For the analysis, researchers integrated blood data collected from 255 bottlenose dolphins across 4 southeast U.S. coastal sites to develop reference intervals for 52 health parameters (hematologic and serum biochemical values). For more information, contact Lori Schwacke at (843) 762-8868 or Lori.Schwacke@noaa.gov. Schwacke, L.H., A. J. Hall, F.I. Townsend, R.S. Wells, L.J. Hansen, A.A. Hohn, G.D. Bossart, P.A. Fair, T.K. Rowles. Hematology and clinical blood chemistry reference intervals for free-ranging common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and variation related to geographic sampling site. American Journal of Veterinary Research, Aug 2009, 70(8): 973-985.For more information, contact Lori Schwacke at (843) 762-8868 or Lori.Schwacke@noaa.gov
  Significance: Reference intervals for health parameters are necessary to identify disease cases and to correlate exposures to chemical contaminants or biological toxins with adverse health impacts on dolphin populations which act as sentinels for human health risks.
  Date Published: August 5, 2009




• Coastal Managers Identify Challenges for Future Leadership

  A National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science scientist designed and led a discussion with coastal managers to develop actionable steps in developing future leaders. Participants in the Coastal Café at the Coastal Zone 2009 Conference from July 20-24 in Boston, Massachusetts, discussed the changing field of work and the skills necessary to coastal management. Breakout groups, led by leaders from academia, government, and non-profit organizations addressed establishing leadership fellowships or mid-career training opportunities, working with academic programs to ensure graduate students learn essential skills, providing support to ensure effective succession planning, identifying useful networking tools to address workforce management needs, and more. This Café conversation builds off a summary of previous conference sessions where participants identified common gaps and challenges for the future in coastal management leadership. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or Susan.White@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: July 29, 2009




• Coastal Managers Expand Knowledge of Coastal Property Valuation

  To learn more about the value of healthy ecosystems and ecosystem services, coastal managers in Charleston, such as stormwater managers, community and economic development specialists and ecosystem managers, attended a seminar on “A Hedonic Valuation of Tidal Creek Health Relative to Residential Properties” on July 17. The study, conducted by two Hollings Scholars under the direction of National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science scientists, placed contribution-value of tidal creek water quality towards property value utilizing economic research tools. The study offers a human dimension component to coastal ecosystems that is part of a relatively new, but potentially powerful toolkit for coastal managers. Scientists from academia, state and federal government agencies, including the EPA, also participated. The Hollings Scholars are undergraduate fellows funded by NOAA to study and conduct internships with NOAA researchers and are administered by the NOAA Office of Education http://www.oesd.noaa.gov/Hollings_info.html. For more information, contact Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8824 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  To make informed decisions, coastal managers require tools and models that allow them to decide the benefits and risks of land use choices. Natural resource information that includes human dimensions will help them better understand and explain those choices.
  Date Published: July 22, 2009




• Students Explore NOAA Mission and Scholarship with Oceans and Human Health Students

  Students Explore NOAA Mission and Scholarship with Oceans and Human Health Students A scientist from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) and NOAA interns presented an overview of NOAA science and scholarship programs to Oceans and Human Health undergraduates participating in the Medical University of South Carolina’s (MUSC) Summer Undergraduate Research Program, SURP. The interactive discussion, held July 16, focused on the organization of NOAA and human health-related work in NCCOS. Two Hollings Scholars and an Educational Partnership Program Scholar working at the Center for Human Health Risk discussed their scholarship programs and summer research. The students are coordinated by the NOAA Oceans and Human Health Initiative (http://www.eol.ucar.edu/projects/ohhi/) through the Consortia for Graduate Traineeship in Oceans and Human Health. MUSC sponsors one of five competitively selected traineeships across the country. For more information, contact Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8824 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  To identify and recruit an inclusive talented workforce, NOAA both offers scholarship programs and research experiences to exemplary students.
  Date Published: July 22, 2009




• Laboratory in the Carolinas Spotlight

  The National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science participates in a grassroots One-NOAA effort to work across agency lines and disciplines through a regional organization. The Center for Human Health Risk (CHHR) and Hollings Marine Laboratory are a spotlight feature of the NOAA in the Carolinas web site during July. The CHHR Deputy Director serves on the steering committee of the organization whose objectives include coordination with NOAA’s Southeast and Caribbean Regional Team, attracting new resources to address regional issues using a One-NOAA approach and creating opportunities for outreach that promote NOAA products and services. For more information, visit http://www.carolinas.noaa.gov/, or contact Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or Susan.White@noaa.gov, or Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8824 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: July 15, 2009




• Wanted: NOAA Laboratory Director, Center for Human Health Risk and Hollings Marine Laboratory

  This is a multi institutional facility encompassing federal, state and university partners. Applicants should have excellent leadership skills and experience in developing interdisciplinary research programs, managing complex laboratory facilities, and obtaining extramural and intramural funding. The successful candidate will be responsible for coordination and oversight of the activities of the Center for Human Health Risk at the Hollings Marine Laboratory. A Ph.D. is desirable, but not required, candidates lacking the Ph.D. should document experience in marine environmental and/or physical sciences. The director position is with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Ocean Service, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science Center for Human Health Risk and will be filled at the ZP-5 level (equivalent to GS-15). The Hollings Marine Laboratory is a product of a long-term joint project agreement among NOAA, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the College of Charleston, and the Medical University of South Carolina. This unique state-federal partnership brings together a variety of expertise and allows for the conduct of basic and applied, environmental and biomedical research to create biotechnological applications for sustaining, protecting, and restoring coastal ecosystems, emphasizing linkages between environmental, organism and human health. For more information about the Laboratory see http://www.hml.noaa.gov. The Hollings Marine Laboratory houses 1 of 5 science centers within NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, 1 of the 3 NOAA Centers of Excellence in Oceans and Human Health, as well as the South Carolina Economic Center of Excellence in Marine Genomics. Although the Laboratory is a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration-owned facility, it is a fully collaborative enterprise, governed by the five partner organizations. The facility infrastructure (~102,000 sq ft) supports interdisciplinary research and encourages the sharing of expertise, equipment, space, and other resources. Laboratory space includes: analytical chemistry; cellular-molecular biology and physiology; cryogenic facilities; biological safety laboratories, challenge laboratories; a nuclear magnetic resonance facility; aquaculture facilities; and wet laboratory processing and storage space.
  Applications must be submitted to USA Jobs - http://www.usajobs.gov/ It is anticipated that the position will open July 1, 2009 and close September 24, 2009. Vacancy Announcement No: NOS-CCOS-2009-0018 or NOS-CCOS-2009-0019
  Date Published: July 9, 2009




• Chinese Officials Visit NOAA Laboratory, Learn About Research and Tools to Improve Coastal Management

  On July 2, scientists from NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) shared their expertise and research efforts with seven officials from the People’s Republic of China. The Chinese officials visited NCCOS’s Center for Human Health Risk in Charleston, South Carolina, through a program of the U.S. State Department, to learn more about coastal research related to stormwater management, land use change, and coastal ecosystem services. The NCCOS scientists also discussed coastal management policies; urban planning policies; and the roles of government, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector in sustainable development planning. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or Susan.White@noaa.gov, or Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8824 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  Over 39 percent of the world’s population lives within 100 km of the coast. As the development pressure on the coasts and oceans continues, it is important for NOAA to share its expertise to protect human and ecosystem health.
  Date Published: July 8, 2009




• NCCOS Centers Welcome Information Technology Leadership

  Recently, three NCCOS Centers have filled IT Specialist (Policy and Planning) positions to address inherently governmental IT operational requirements. These positions located at CHHR CCFHR and CCEHBR are responsible for managing the IT activities for these Centers and ensure IT Systems are secure and remain operational in accordance with Federal, Department of Commerce (DOC), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and NOS IT policy. These positions help to advise and develop new IT approaches in support of the Centers’ rapidly advancing research work. Mike Sellers, previously a contractor working with CHHR, accepted the new IT Operations Manager position for CHHR. Jim Guyton, previously with the USGS and returning to federal employment from the commercial sector, accepted the new IT Operations Manager position for CCFHR. Todd Neison, previously with the Department of State, accepted the new IT Operations Manager position for CCEHBR. For more information, contact Mark Mohs at (301)713-3020 or Mark.Mohs@noaa.gov.
  Congratulations Mike!
  Date Published: July 8, 2009




• Charleston Students Successful in Knauss Competition

  Three students working with scientists at the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science and Hollings Marine Laboratory partner College of Charleston (CofC) were recently named Sea Grant Knauss fellows. Lisa Vandiver and Michelle Johnston, both students at the University of South Carolina, and Charles Kolo Rathburn, CofC, will serve the Executive Branch in Washington, DC and Silver Spring, MD in 2010. The National Sea Grant College Program Dean John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship, established in 1979, provides a unique educational experience to students who have an interest in ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources and in the national policy decisions affecting those resources. The program matches highly qualified graduate students with “hosts” in the legislative and executive branch of government located in the Washington, D.C. area, for a one year paid fellowship. The program is named in honor of one of Sea Grant’s founders, former NOAA Administrator, John A. Knauss. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or Susan.White@noaa.gov, or Geoff Scott at (843) 762-8811 or Geoff.Scott@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: June 17, 2009




• Hollings Marine Laboratory Symposium 2009

  Over eighty scientists attended a workday of professional and social networking to foster collaborations within the Center for Human Health Risk (CHHR) at the first Hollings Marine Laboratory (HML) Symposium June 12, 2009 at the HML partner South Carolina Department of Natural Resource’s auditorium. Paul Sandifer, Senior Scientist for the National Ocean Science (NOS) presented the history of the laboratory, and was followed by 13 scientific presentations representing each of the five HML partners and a wide variety of collaborative projects. Susan White, Acting Deputy Director of CHHR, wrapped up the talks with a prospective look at the future of science at HML. A poster reception completed the day with 25 presenters. Collaborators from the NOAA Environmental Cooperative Science Center and the South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium also attended the event. Local businesses and the College of Charleston provided lunch and refreshments for the poster reception. The day was a success and we look forward to many more. For more information, contact Susan Lovelace at (843) 762.8862 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: June 17, 2009




• Environmental Cooperative Science Center Scientist Presents Seminar to Engage Charleston Centers

  Charles Jagoe, Ph.D, Distinguished Professor of Environmental Science at the NOAA Environmental Cooperative Science Center, Florida A&M University, presented a seminar, “The ECSC: an Integrated Approach to Research Education and Outreach in Coastal Ecosystems” June 11, 2009 during a visit to the Center for Human Health Risk. The seminar provided scientists and staff an opportunity to learn about the ECSC and consider collaborations between scientists and students in both Centers. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or Susan.White@noaa.gov, or Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8862 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: June 17, 2009




• HML Student Granted National Institutes of Health Fellowship

  The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recently granted a National Research Service Award Training Fellowship to Maria Vizcaino, a Ph.D. student working with Pam Morris and Peter Moeller at the Hollings Marine Laboratory (HML). The project, “Isolation and Characterization of Antimicrobial Compounds from the Coral-Associated Microorganism, Pseudovibrio sp.” is an excellent example of HML cooperation among institutions and disciplines. Maria and Pam with the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) (microbiology) work collaboratively with Peter Moeller, Center for Human Health Risk (natural products chemistry) and Dan Bearden, National Institutes of Standards and Technology (metabolomics). All are HML partners. Maria is a student with the Marine Biomedicine and Environmental Sciences Center at MUSC. With this award, it is clear that the NIH recognizes the important contributions that ocean and coastal science can make to human health. Congratulations Maria! For more information, contact Pam Morris at (843) 762-8803 or Pam.Morris@noaa.gov, or Peter Moeller at (843) 762-8867 or Peter.Moeller@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: June 10, 2009




• NCCOS Assists The Coastal Society to Address Emerging Coastal Issues

  As a member of The Coastal Society (TCS) Board of Directors, a scientist from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science participated in this year’s board retreat to strategically plan for investments and activities to actively address emerging coastal issues by fostering dialogue, forging partnerships, and promoting communication and education across a broad range of constituents. A “Coastal Issues” luncheon held on May 30 in Wilmington, NC launched the society’s planning for the upcoming TCS 22 Conference, to be held in Wilmington in 2010. Thirty invited participants joined the discussion and helped identify current and emerging coastal issues of concern for the Southeastern region which will ensure that the TCS22 Conference theme and concurrent sessions are useful and timely for coastal managers. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8993 or Susan.White@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: June 10, 2009




• Bring Your Child to Work Day in Charleston

  Over 40 children of Charleston National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science employees attended an afternoon of science exploration at the Center of Human Health Risk at Hollings Marine Laboratory and the Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research at Charleston. Members of the NOAA People Committee planned a day that included phytoplankton, maps, dolphins, fish, art, chemistry, and critters. Lunch, snacks, and a goodie bag of educational materials from NOAA, were provided. Jardon Howard Technologies, a provider of contract services at the centers, contributed staff and resources toward this activity. The ACE Basin National Estuarine Research Reserve provided the touch tank. For more information, contact Yasmine Bottein at (843)762-8589 or Marie-Yasmine.Bottein@noaa.gov or Lori Schwacke at (843) 762-8868 or Lori.Schwacke@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: June 10, 2009




• Senate Appropriations Deputy Staff Director Tours Charleston Facilities

  Margaret Cummisky, Deputy Staff Director, U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations toured the facilities and discussed coastal science on May 27, 2009. Ms. Cummisky met with Center for Human Health Risk, Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research, and the Center of Excellence in Oceans and Human Health leaders and scientists to learn about program areas and research highlights and to discuss collaborative efforts with Charleston partners. A highlight of the visit was a trip to a typical South Carolina tidal creek where graduate students and staff demonstrated sampling techniques used to assess the health of small coastal creeks. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or Susan.White@noaa.gov, or Geoff Scott at (843) 762-8811 or Geoff.Scott@noaa.gov
  
  Date Published: June 3, 2009




• SECART Assesses Needs for NOAA Strategic Plan

  As part of a NOAA Southeast & Caribbean Regional Team (SECART) stakeholder engagement, Susan White, Acting Deputy Director of the Center for Human Health Risk (CHHR) facilitated a regional discussion with members of the Southeast Regional Partnership for Planning and Sustainability (SERPPAS) on May 20, 2009 in Charleston, SC. The goal of the discussion was to identify and prioritize top trends in coastal environments, and the challenges and opportunities to address those trends. The Program Planning and Integration Office will use this information in the next NOAA Strategic Plan. SERPPAS members include multiple state and federal agencies, including military agencies, to promote better collaboration in making resource-use decisions. SERPPAS works to prevent encroachment around military lands, encourage compatible resource-use decisions, and improve coordination among regions, states, communities, and military services. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or Susan.White@noaa.gov
  
  Date Published: June 3, 2009




• Awards Reaffirm NCCOS’s Leadership in Workplace Safety

  For having logged almost six million hours without an injury or illness that resulted in employee time away from the job, the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) earned multiple coveted awards from the nonprofit National Safety Council. During the period of 2004-present, staff at each of NCCOS’s centers worked over one million hours without injury or illness that prevented them from working. The awards, which arrived at NCCOS the week of May 18, include the Perfect Record Award (for 12 consecutive months without sickness or accidents leading to time off) and the Million Work Hours Award (a similar award, but not restricted to a calendar year). NCCOS’s total working hours over the course of five years is 5,722,295 and still counting. For more information, contact Rick Meitzler, NCCOS’s Environmental Health and Safety Officer, at (843) 762-8842 or Rick.Meitzler@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: May 27, 2009




• Commercialization of Natural Antifouling Compound should Improve Marina Ecosystems

  Scientists from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS), working with colleagues at North Carolina State University, recently discovered that a naturally occurring compound from a Caribbean sponge, Agelas conifer, reduces fouling of marine vessels while exhibiting low toxicity to humans and marine species. Scientists have developed synthetic derivatives from the compound that companies hope to commercially manufacture. These agents could replace anti-fouling copper chemicals in marine paint formulas that, by legislation, companies must eliminate in 2009. The agents reduce fouling by stopping biofilms from forming on marine surfaces. A biofilm is a scum that bacteria produce to protect themselves. This scum forms a base for macrofouling, the collection of barnacles, algae, and other organisms often seen on the bottom of boats and ships. The compound and its derivatives were reported in February at the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) meeting as biofilm inhibitors for medical devices and as agents to re-sensitize resistant bacteria to current antibiotics making this sponge compound a multipurpose find for protecting human health. For more information, contact Peter Moeller (843) 762-8993 or Peter. Moeller@noaa.gov or Kevin Beauchesne (843) 762-8972 or Kevin.Beauchesne@noaa.gov.
  Biofilms and the subsequent macrofouling of marine vessels is a multi-billion dollar a year problem. Natural and less cytotoxic agents can replace harmful compounds and save money due to improved maneuverability and energy efficiency of vessels. Manufacturers must eliminate copper in marine paints in 2009 and these agents offer alternative active ingredients.
  Date Published: May 20, 2009




• New Publications

  Melander, C., P.D.R. Moeller, et al. 2009. Evaluation of dihydrooroidin as an antifouling additive in marine paint. International Biodeterioration and Biodegradation 63: 529-532 (online: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ibiod.2008.08.009). For more information, contact Peter Moeller at (843) 762-8993 or Peter.Moeller@noaa.gov. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ---------------- Mikucki, J.A., A. Pearson, D.T. Johnston, A.V. Turchyn, J. Farquhar, D.P. Schrag, A.D. Anbar, J.C. Priscu, P.A. Lee. 2009. A Contemporary Microbially Maintained Subglacial Ferrous “Ocean”. Science 324.5925(397-400) (online: http://doi.org/10.1126/science.1167350). For more information, contact Peter Lee at (843) 762-8858 or leep@cofc.edu.
  
  Date Published: May 20, 2009




• Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor Plans to Protect Coastal Heritage

  A Center for Human Health Risk (CHHR) scientist and outreach coordinator participated in a public meeting to plan the Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor May 14, 2009 in Georgetown, SC. Both the CHHR and the Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research have data to inform the guiding commission of the environmental health of the corridor. The Commission is seeking partnerships to “recognize and sustain environment that celebrates the legacy and continuing contributions of Gullah/Geechee people to our American heritage.” Slaves were brought from West Africa between 1619 and 1808 to work on plantations growing indigo, rice, and other crops. At the end of slavery many of these people formed communities on coastal land practicing the cultural, farming, and fishing arts from their homeland. These people, along with their unique dialects, are called Gullah/Geechee. Established by Congress in 2006 (Subtitle 1 of Public Law 109-338) the Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor is supported by the National Park Service and extends from roughly Jacksonville, North Carolina to Jacksonville, Florida. The Commission is currently identifying the planning context for the management plan before the next step of developing goals, policies, and resource management strategies for the corridor. For more information, contact Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8824 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: May 20, 2009




• Scientists and Managers Develop Tiered Evaluation Strategy to Address Newly Identified Contaminant Threats

  A scientist from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science and a counterpart from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (a Hollings Marine Laboratory partner) helped develop a plan for incorporating chemical and biological monitoring in evaluating contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) in drinking and receiving waters. The plan outlines freshwater stream, groundwater, estuarine, and drinking water monitoring using a combination of chemical measurement and indicator organisms like mussels. The plan, developed with federal, state, and university experts, will be dynamic, allowing for a flexible monitoring and research strategy which can incorporate new techniques. CECs include pharmaceuticals, flame retardants, personal care products and pesticides, among others. Some persist through wastewater treatment, posing a hazard to humans and wildlife. This strategy was presented at a Southern California Coastal Water Research Project (SCCWRP) workshop in Costa Mesa, California April 28-29, 2009. For more information, contact John Christensen at (301) 713-3028 x153 or John.Christensen@noaa.gov, or John Kucklick at (843) 762-8866 or John.Kucklick@noaa.gov.
  Pollutants such as contaminants of emerging concern are potentially harmful to humans and ecosystems. Identifying and characterizing their presence and effects in coastal waters is important to developing strategies to reduce risks to ecosystems and people.
  Date Published: May 13, 2009




• Scientist’s Regional Research Insight Helps Prioritize Issues at Planning Workshop

  A scientist from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science’s Center for Human Health Risk, along with other state, regional, and federal invitees, worked to identify priority coastal research needs for the South Atlantic region at a research planning workshop in Savannah, Georgia. The workshop, hosted by the South Atlantic Regional Research Project (SARRP), was in support of developing a regional research plan, and was held from April 21-22, 2009. The goal of the SARRP—supported by the four South Atlantic Sea Grant Programs—is to develop a final research plan that unites management needs, stakeholder priorities, and research gaps into a plan that can generate and leverage resources for near- and long-term implementation. Priority regional-level research topics and associated research questions were developed to align with the National Science and Technology Council’s Ocean Research Priorities Plan (ORPP) and the draft Governor’s South Atlantic Alliance. It includes regional priority issues including: healthy ecosystems, working waterfronts, clean coastal and ocean waters, and disaster-resilient communities. For more information, contact Susan White (843) 762-8993 or Susan.White@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: May 6, 2009




• Tropical Fungus Range Expands into Northern Waters

  NOS website article, http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/weeklynews/apr09/lobomycosis.html, and Making Waves podcast, http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/podcast/apr09/mw41509.mp3, April 15, 2009. For more information, contact Lori Schwacke at (843) 762-8868 or Lori.Schwacke@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: April 29, 2009




• MUSC "Catalyst" article: Sea sponge survival key to possible cures

  The Catalyst, April 10, 2009, http://www.musc.edu/catalyst/archive/2009/co4-10sea.html. For more information, contact Peter Moeller at (843) 762-8867 or Peter.Moeller@noaa.gov, or Pam Morris at (843) 762-8803 or Pam.Morris@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: April 29, 2009




• Scientists Coordinate Research Plans for Ecological and Marine Animal Health Assessments in Sapelo Island NERR

  To better coordinate research efforts along the Georgia coast, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) and Estuarine Reserves Division (ERD) scientists met with other federal, state, and academic researchers with interests in the Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve (SINERR) and adjacent estuaries, in an information exchange from April 16-17, 2009. Organized by the Reserve Research Coordinator, the meeting focused on plans to initiate two coordinated studies of ecosystem health, including a reserve-wide assessment of the status of ecological condition, and an assessment of the health of bottlenose dolphins as a sentinel species in relation to contaminant exposure. The proposed studies build upon prior sentinel habitat and sentinel species assessments that suggested a potential input of legacy chemical compounds into the SINERR from nearby contaminated sites. The meeting supports an ERD/NCCOS long-term agreement to develop and synthesize data for better management of the NERRS. For more information, contact Lori Schwacke at (843) 762-8868 or Lori.Schwacke@noaa.gov, or Jeff Hyland at (843) 762-8652 or Jeff.Hyland@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: April 29, 2009




• New Information on Widely Used Antifoulant Chemical Underscores Need for Risk Assessment and Management

  National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science researchers have described the fate and transport of Irgarol 1051, a booster biocide included in marine paints to inhibit fouling, using a mesocosm simulation of a salt marsh ecosystem. Concentrations of Irgarol and its major degradation product in both water and sediments were found to be almost 100% of the initial Irgarol dose 35 days after its introduction into the system, thus providing strong evidence of the persistence of these toxic chemicals in the coastal environment. Another important finding was that over this same period Irgarol and its major metabolite accumulated largely in the mesocosm sediments, suggesting a potential, yet to be determined, risk to the health of vital benthic (bottom-dwelling) organisms that warrants further investigation. Mesocosms are self-contained and self-supporting systems for simulating an estuary ecosystem much as it exists in nature. Find the results of this study in the Journal of Environmental Monitoring. For more information, contact Yelena Sapozhnikova at (843) 762-8880 or Yelena.Sapozhnikova@noaa.gov, or Ed Wirth at (843) 762-8903 or Ed.Wirth@noaa.gov
  These findings advance the understanding of the risks to the health coastal ecosystems associated with Irgarol 1051, and provides evidence in support of rigorous assessment and management of such risks.
  Date Published: April 22, 2009




• Congressional Delegation Visits NOAA Facilities at Charleston

  Staff from the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee accompanied by National Ocean Service headquarters staff visited the Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research and the Center for Human Health Risk on Wednesday, April 15. Following overviews of the Centers’ science programs, the group toured laboratories at both Centers and walked the historical Fort Johnson campus, ending their day with a reception at South Carolina Department of Natural Resource’s Outdoor Classroom. For more information, contact Geoff Scott at (843) 762-8508 or Geoff.Scott@noaa.gov or Susan White at (843) 762-8993 or Susan.White@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: April 22, 2009




• Scientist’s Assistance Helped ExploraVision Entry Garner Honorable Mention

  A scientist from a Hollings Marine Laboratory partner, the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), recently mentored a student team that received an honorable mention in the Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision Awards (http://www.exploravision.org/). Mem Factor and Cailey Factor from Buist Academy for Advanced Studies entered their project “Marine Animal Patrol Patch” in the 2008/2009 competition. To enter the competition, students select a technology that is present in and relevant to their lives, explores what the technology does, how it works, and how, when, and why it was invented, imagines and explores what that technology could be like 20 years from now, and then prepares an in-depth report that conveys their vision to others. The students mentored by the MUSC scientist proposed creating a ‘patrol’ made up of marine animals that have special patches with sensors and transmitters attached to alert scientists if they encounter hazardous conditions. For more information, contact Anne Blair at (843) 762-8992 or Anne.Blair@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: April 15, 2009




• Newly Identified Sentinels Provide Additional Information on Coastal Pollution

  Levels of certain metals are lower in crab tissues from sites near less-developed areas, finds a survey of trace metals amounts in stone crabs from three estuaries with varied land uses. This National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science study was the first to examine the distribution and magnitude of 22 major and minor trace elements in tissues of the stone crab, Menippe mercenaria. Metal concentrations in edible tissues were below U.S. Food and Drug Administration levels of concern for shellfish. These findings were presented at the Carolinas Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry meeting in Charleston, South Carolina, March 27, 2009. For more information, contact Lou Ann Reed at (843) 762-8927 or LouAnn.Reed@noaa.gov, or Ed Wirth at (843) 762-8903 or Ed.Wirth@noaa.gov.
  Significance: The measurement of contaminant levels in shellfish may be one indicator of environmental quality and may also identify risks associated with seafood consumption.
  Date Published: April 8, 2009




• Presentation Judging Fosters High Quality Environmental Science and Communication

  Scientists from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) served as judges for student presentations at the Carolinas Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry Meeting, held March 26-28 in Charleston, SC. The judges talked with the students about their projects and provided helpful critiques to improve future scientific endeavors. Scientists also presented posters and platform presentations summarizing current research projects at the NCCOS Centers for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research and Human Health Risk. For more information, contact Marie DeLorenzo at (843) 762-8515 or Marie.DeLorenzo@noaa.gov, or Pete Key at (843) 762-8596 or Pete.Key@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: April 8, 2009




• Improving Diversity within NOAA Starts in Middle School

  Scientists from the National Center for Coastal Ocean Sciences and Hollings Marine Laboratory (HML) partners completed a two-year pilot project designed to enhance science education in sixth grade students from a largely minority-enrolled school. The scientists helped undergraduate students from historically black South Carolina State University (SCSU) mentor students from Felton Laboratory School. Mentors and students visited HML and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) during the study period to learn about coastal sciences, particularly water quality and ecosystem health using oysters as sentinel species. The mentors worked with the students to develop research questions, then design and conduct experimental projects for answers. On March 31, students presented their projects and discussed their questions with the scientists. This National Science Foundation-funded project is a collaborative effort between NCCOS, SCDNR, the Center for Ocean Science Educational Excellence Southeast (COSEE SE), and SCSU. For more information, contact Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8824 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov or Laura Webster at (843) 762-8623 or Laura.F.Webster@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: April 8, 2009




• Genomic Tools Evaluated for Forecasting the Effects of Climate Change on Marine Organisms

  To assess new tools and methods for their utility in evaluating and forecasting the effects of climate change on marine organisms, scientists from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) and Hollings Marine Laboratory partners led discussions during the South Carolina Marine Genomics Consortium “Marine Genomics and Climate Change” workshop in Columbia, South Carolina on March 16, 2009. The researchers considered the use of specific genomic techniques to complement long-term monitoring data for assessing and forecasting the effects of climate change on marine resources. The South Carolina Marine Genomics Consortium is a statewide consortium with a core collaborative mission to use cyber-enabled genomic and bioinformatic approaches to predict and address the impact of climate change and environmental stressors on ecosystems. HML partners include the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). For more information, visit http://www.genome.clemson.edu/activities/projects/marineGenomics/ or contact Pam Morris at (843) 762-8803 or Pam.Morris@noaa.gov, or Fran Van Dolah at (843) 762-8529 or Fran.Vandolah@noaa.gov [06H00019] (CHHR, CCEHBR)
  
  Date Published: April 1, 2009




• Award Win Underscores Environmental Leadership and Commitment

  As announced in a Commerce-wide email on March 18, NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) won a 2009 DOC Environmental Stewardship Award for their Environmental Management System (EMS). NCCOS’s EMS ensures environmental goals are a part of all aspects of the Program Office and promotes the highest level of environmental stewardship. The system encompasses five organizational research centers geographically distributed from South Carolina to Alaska. Jack Dunnigan, Assistant Administrator for the National Ocean Service, said in an email to all of NOS on March 20, “we have all looked to NCCOS to lead the way. This recognition indicates that the time has come for the rest of us to begin down the path. We will be working with all of the office directors to identify opportunities for NOS to lead in this area.” For more information at HML contact Rick Meitzler at (843) 762-8842 or Rick.Meitzler@noaa.gov or Raluca Semeniuc at (843) 762-8870 or Raluca.Semeniuc@noaa.gov.
  Significance: Because of conscientious efforts to incorporate care of the environment into day-to-day activities, NCCOS employees are making their workplaces even better, and their efforts heighten NOAA’s awareness of the need to remain vigilant and committed to doing what is right.
  Date Published: March 25, 2009




• Poster Judging Fosters High Quality Estuarine Science and Communication

  The acting Deputy Director for National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science’s Center for Human Health Risk judged student posters at the spring meeting of the Southeastern Estuarine Research Society (SEERS) from March 19 to 21, 2009. This work promotes student involvement in applied coastal science conferences and encourages scientific collaboration among academic and government scientists. The SEERS is an educational organization dedicated to the informal exchange of interdisciplinary information related to estuaries of the southeast U.S., and is an affiliate society of the Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8993 or Susan.White@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: March 25, 2009




• MUSC Student Wins Conference Grant

  Maria Vizcaino, a Ph.D. student at Hollings Marine Laboratory (HML) has been awarded a 2009 American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Cooperative Activities Program Student Travel Grant (for $500) to attend the ASM’s 109th General Meeting in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to be held from May 17-21, 2009. Maria’s winning abstract is titled ‘Characterization of Marine Antimicrobial Compounds from a Pseudovibrio sp. Associated with the Surface Mucopolysaccharide Layer of a Caribbean Coral.’ At HML, she is co-mentored by Center for Human Health Risk (CHHR) scientist Peter Moeller and Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) scientist Pam Morris, and is a student in the MUSC Marine Biomedicine and Environmental Sciences Center (http://www.musc.edu/mbes/), which posts many of its students at CHHR and the Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research. For more information, contact Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8824 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: March 25, 2009




• "Really Simple Syndication" Improves Access to Science

  To improve dissemination of information Really Simple Syndication (RSS) is being used to alert institutional partners, other scientists and the public to new information. National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science is using RSS to provide update feeds of weekly highlight reports to webpages and blogs. RSS is a web feed format that publishes frequently updated works, such as the NCCOS’s weekly reports. (http://www.hml.noaa.gov) For information, contact Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8824 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov or Kirk Yedinak at (843) 762-8939 or Kirk.Yedinak@noaa.gov .
  
  Date Published: March 18, 2009




• High School Students Learn About Coastal Ecosystem Research

  Twenty-three junior and seniors from Charleston, SC’s West Ashley High School learned about careers and research at the Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research and the Center for Human Health Risk on March 10, 2009. Students spent the morning learning about toxicity testing, the Southeast Phytoplankton Monitoring Network, biotoxin research, protected species, man-made pollution, natural toxins, and the National Ocean Service role as the steward of coastal ecosystems. These marine science students learned that estuaries are complex environments with sensitive organisms that are subjected to many stressors. For more information, contact Katy W. Chung at (843) 762-8588 or Katy.Chung@noaa.gov
  
  Date Published: March 18, 2009




• Media Coverage--Shrimp Scamper, Tiny athletes go the distance for scientific study

  Runners World, April 2009 p.20 For more information contact Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8824 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov
  
  Date Published: March 18, 2009




• Media Coverage--Offshore coral at risk? – Divers report bleaching

  Bo Peterson, The Post and Courier, March 9, 2009. (http://www.postandcourier.com/news/2009/mar/09/offshore_coral_at_risk_divers_report_ble74333/?print) For more information contact Cheryl Woodley at (843) 762-8862 or Cheryl. Woodley@noaa.gov
  
  Date Published: March 18, 2009




• Joe Wade and CCEHBR Honored with CFC Awards

  At the March 5, 2009 annual Coastal Carolina Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) awards luncheon celebration, Joe Wade was presented the 2008 Esprit dé Combined Federal Campaign Award for his dedication and perseverance. Joe’s care helped to make this one of the best CFC campaigns ever for the organization. Joe also accepted the Gold Award for the Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research, the Center for Human Health Risk and the National Institute of Standards and Technology for reaching their collective 2008 Goal Achievement of $29,300 in this very challenging year. Congratulations Joe!
  
  Date Published: March 18, 2009




• Scientists and Managers Meet to Align Research and Communications for Improved Decisionmaking

  To better align National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) research efforts with the science needs of state coastal managers, and to increase communications between both groups, NCCOS scientists participated in the NOAA’s Annual Oceans and Coastal Program Managers Meeting in Washington D.C., from February 23-26, 2009. An NCCOS scientist facilitated a roundtable discussion developed by NOAA’s Coastal Services Center to focus discussions on sea level rise mapping, data needs, and potential state applications to improve coastal management decisions. Other discussion topics at the meeting included assessing community resiliency and vulnerability, smart growth, developing adaptation plans, climate modeling, and marine spatial planning. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8893 or Susan.White@noaa.gov.
  To protect the quality of coastal resources, NCCOS produces information and products to assist coastal managers in decisionmaking. Aligning research and communications with coastal managers assures that priority work is conducted and used.
  Date Published: March 11, 2009




• Scientist’s Participation in Charleston Science Fairs Assists Development of Young Scientists

  On March 2-3, 2009, scientists from the Center for Human Health Risk, the Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research, and partner institutions at Hollings Marine Laboratory judged science fair projects at St. Andrews School of Math and Science and Porter Gaud Middle School in Charleston, SC. Projects ranged from environmental science, chemistry, physics, engineering, botany, zoology, and health and social science. This work supports NOAA’s cross-cutting priority of promoting environmental literacy by inspiring the next generation of scientists. For more information, contact Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8824 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov or Yelena Sapozhnikova at (843) 762-8811 or Yelena.Sapozhnikova@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: March 11, 2009




• Interagency Workshop to Integrate Ecosystem, Animal, and Human Health Data

  Scientists from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science’s Center for Human Health Risk with the Center of Excellence in Oceans and Human Health at Hollings Marine Laboratory helped to organize and participated in an Interagency “One Health Workshop” to discuss potential approaches for integrating ecosystem and animal health data across NOAA and with other federal agencies. A collaborative effort would provide the capability for synthesis and integrated analysis of ocean health data to support resource managers and the public health community. The development of integrated information management systems will be critical to surveillance, detection, forecasting, and management missions. The workshop, held February 18 and 19 in Silver Spring, MD, included participants from the NOAA Oceans and Human Health Program, the U.S. Geological Survey, the Centers for Disease Control, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, NOAA Fisheries Service, and NOAA Ocean Service. For more information, contact Lori Schwacke at (843) 762-8868 or Lori.Schwacke@noaa.gov or Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or susan.white@noaa.gov
  
  Date Published: March 4, 2009




• Newly Found Sponge Compound May Aid Struggle Against Antibiotic-resistant Microbes

  Researchers from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, with a Hollings Marine Laboratory partner, have identified a unique anti-biofilm chemical. This chemical, derived from a sponge, could potentially reverse antibiotic resistance in many strains of harmful bacteria such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Acinetobacter baumannii. When researchers mixed this anti-biofilm agent with antibiotics and applied them to microbial infections in humans, they appear to re-sensitize organisms resistant even to current-generation antibiotics. The anti-biofilm agent may explain why some marine organisms such as the sponge Agelas conifera can survive when others appear to be struggling when exposed to the same infection. This collaborative effort between NCCOS, the Medical University of South Carolina, and the North Carolina State University was highlighted at the 2009 AAAS conference held in Chicago February 12-16. For more information, contact Peter Moeller at (843) 762-8867 or Peter.Moeller@noaa.gov.
  Newly discovered products from the sea assist environmental and medical scientists solve marine animal and human diseases. This link between Oceans and Human Health reinforces the benefits marine research brings to the American public.
  Date Published: February 25, 2009




• Scientist Informs NOAA Ocean and Coastal Resource Managers about Preliminary Results and Future Research in and Near SINERR

  A National Center for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) researcher presented preliminary results from assessments in the Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve (SINERR) and an adjacent coastal region to program managers in the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resources Management in Silver Spring, February 4. This included information on high levels of some chemical contaminants that have been detected in a sentinel species (bottlenose dolphin). Along with these early findings, the scientist presented and discussed plans for ongoing and future research efforts. These activities are being conducted by NCCOS in partnership with NOAA Fisheries Office of Protected Resources, Georgia State Department of Natural Resources and SINERR. For more information, contact Lori Schwacke (843) 762-8862 or Lori.Schwacke@noaa.gov.
  
  Date Published: February 4, 2009




• Expanded Distribution of Tropical Disease Alerts Managers to Potential Impacts of Climate Change

  Scientists from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, working with NOAA Fisheries Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response researchers, have identified multiple cases of lobomycosis in stranded and live, free-swimming bottlenose dolphins from coastal North Carolina. Lobomycosis is a chronic fungal infection of the skin and has previously only been reported in people and dolphins from tropical (South America) and transitional tropical (Florida) regions. The cases represent a potential change in the northern distribution of Lacazia loboi, the fungus that causes lobomycosis. For more information, contact Lori Schwacke at (843) 762-8868 or Lori.Schwacke@noaa.gov, or Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8824 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  Significance: Understanding shifts in distribution of marine pathogens is important to assess potential health risks and to effectively forecast ecological impacts. Understanding changing ecological and human health risks will help ecosystem and public health managers to develop effective response strategies.
  Date Published: February 2, 2009




• Newly Discovered Bleaching Mechanism Provides Information to Help Coral Conservation

  Investigators from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science and their collaborators discovered that light and heat stress induce corals to consume their symbiotic algae, one characteristic of bleaching. During a stress event, the mechanism maintaining symbiosis is destabilized, and in a survival response, the symbiont is ingested through a mechanism that also controls the way cells ingest bacteria and maintain damaged cell parts. This information is published in February 2009 issue of the journal Autophagy. For more information, visit http://www.landesbioscience.com/journals/autophagy/article/7405 (subscription required), or contact Cheryl Woodley at (843) 762-8862 or Cheryl.Woodley@noaa.gov, or Susan Lovelace at (843) 762-8824 or Susan.Lovelace@noaa.gov.
  Significance: Coral bleaching is a major contributor to the global declines of coral reefs. Understanding the cellular mechanisms involved in coral bleaching and how environmental stressors initiate this process contribute to conservation efforts worldwide.
  Date Published: February 1, 2009




• Scientists Forge New Partnerships with NERR Counterparts

  To better address the needs of the National Estuarine Research Reserves (NERRs), scientists from several NCCOS centers met with NERR research coordinators to give form and substance to the recent cooperative agreement between the two program offices. By applying NCCOS’s research capabilities with NERRs’ ongoing monitoring and stewardship programs, the sites will be better characterized and used to help assess the Nation’s coastal challenges. The presenters, in the context of NOAA’s recent emphasis on Integrated Ecosystem Assessments, focused on research partnerships in such areas as estuarine habitat characterization, chemical contamination at NERR sites, climate change and sea level rise impacts, the use of NERR sites as mercury pollution sentinels, and the exploration of links between environment and human health and well-being. The coordinator’s annual meeting was held January 26-28 in St. Augustine, Florida. For more information, contact Susan White at (843) 762-8811 or Susan.White@noaa.gov
  
  Date Published: January 26, 2009




• Center for Human Health Risk Hosts South Carolina Information Network

  The Center for Human Health Risk (CHHR) is the regular host for meetings of the South Carolina Coastal Information Network, the latest of which was held on January 23. The Network, http://www.sccoastalinfo.org/, formed to enhance coordination of coastal community outreach efforts in South Carolina, also serves to facilitate partnerships for designing and implementing education and training events. Partners include South Carolina Sea Grant, National Estuarine Research Reserves, coastal Councils of Government, academic institutions, state agencies, the Coastal Services Center, Hollings Marine Laboratory, and the CHHR. All partners are working together to provide a series of introductory climate change workshops relating to coastal South Carolina during the summer of 2009.
  
  Date Published: January 23, 2009




• Elementary Students Discuss Ideas for Addressing Climate Change Issues with Scientists

  On January 22, a group of fourth to sixth graders from Buist Academy in Charleston County, SC sat down with scientists from the Center for Human Health Risk (CHHR) to discuss their ideas for addressing climate change-related sea level rise in the South Carolina Lowcountry. Two ideas they proposed relate to salt-tolerant plants that might serve as biofuel material, and naturally selected or genetically adapted food crops. Scientists from CHHR, as well as plant geneticists from industry and academic sectors joined in the meeting and discussed the benefits and risks of the students’ proposals. The students plan to share their ideas with community associations and farmers.
  
  Date Published: January 22, 2009




• Coastal Carolinas Ecosystem Services Workshops and Public Outreach

  The Center for Human Health Risk (CHHR) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducted public meetings and two workshops to learn about the ecosystem service needs of Carolina communities and identify data that can contribute to answering ecosystem service questions The public meetings—held from February 12-15 in South Carolina—allowed researchers opportunities to listen to citizens discussing the ecosystem services they most value and feel are most threatened. The constituent workshop engaged state and local government and non-profit group participants to measure and map ecosystem services, and to identify and characterize links to health and well-being. They discussed their needs for planning and governing communities while protecting ecosystem services for their citizens. The research workshop gathered information about available data and research needs in the coastal Carolinas. Later, EPA and NOAA researchers met to discuss the priority needs for the development of a five- to ten-year research plan in which the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science researchers may work collaboratively with EPA. Scientists from both CHHR and the Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research participated in the public meetings, hosted by environmental non-profit groups in Bluffton and Litchfield, a constituent workshop at the Coastal Services Center, a research workshop at the SC Department of Natural Resources, and a planning meeting at the Hollings Marine Laboratory.
  
  Date Published: November 23, 2008




• Raluca Semeniuc receives NOS Team Member of the Year Award

  Ms. Semeniuc an Industrial Hygienist at the NCCOS, Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research in Charleston, SC. She is recognized for her applied technical skills in the multi-year development and implementation of NCCOS's Environmental Management System (EMS), so that NCCOS can now certify to National EMS Standards, one of the few components of NOAA to do so at this time. She has further developed extensive electronic record-keeping of all safety plans, policies and documentation associated with numerous chemical and biological research laboratory operations, providing ready staff and management access to extensive information regarding bio-safety controls and protection for employees. Ms. Semeniuc has shown exceptional technical expertise, dedication to achieve in a highly complex arena, and commitment to serve people, which have led to Center, NCCOS and NOS accomplishments in Environmental Management and Safety of personnel that would not otherwise have been possible. Congratulation Raluca!
  
  Date Published: November 21, 2008




• Peter D. R. Moeller Receives Commerce Department Gold Medal

  HML researcher Peter Moeller received a 2008 Commerce Gold Award for scientific/engineering achievement. Moeller, a researcher at the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science’s Center for Human Health Risk received a Department of Commerce Gold Medal for developing marine natural products research, which led to the discovery of the Pfiesteria toxin generated by the marine algae Pfiesteria piscicida. With this accomplishment, he has advanced NOAA's leadership on harmful algal blooms. Congratulations Peter!
  
  Date Published: November 20, 2008




• New Printer Ink Technology Reduces Environmental Footprint

  All printers in the new office building of the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science’s Center for Human Health Risk (CHHR) at the Hollings Marine Laboratory will use Xerox solid ink technology in an effort to reduce CHHR’s negative environmental impact. Solid ink is a resin-based non-toxic stick that makes handling safer, easier, and cleaner. Environmental benefits also include a cartridge-free design and minimal packaging, which reduces the amount of waste produced at CHHR. There is an average of 95% less waste produced by solid ink printers compared to standard cartridge-based toner printers. Manufacturing of solid ink and reduced packaging require less energy and allow more space for better transportation efficiency and fewer delivery trucks on the road. For more information, contact Rick Meitzler at (843) 762-8842 or