News and Updates
This section features stories that highlight how remarkable yet fragile the ocean is. It also speaks to the connection between humans and the ocean and our responsibility to protect it.
Stories, unless otherwise noted, are written by Pam Ferris-Olson, PhD. Pam has studied ocean creatures, worked in communication, and, as founder of Women Mind the Water, focuses on the relationship between humans and water. Her Wo(men) Mind the Water Artivist Series explores the work of artivists (artists +activists) and their impact in influencing change.
Vaccine Trials Underway in US to Protect Marine Mammals from Avian Flu
Highly pathogenic strain of H5N1 form 20,000+ sea lions in Chile and Peru and 17,000+ southern elephant seal pups in Argentina. Vaccine trial seeks underway to protect health and welfare of marine mammals.
Researchers Identify Chemicals From Turf Algae as Cause for Decline in Seaweed Forests
From the Baltic Sea to South Australia and from the Atlantic to the Pacific, researchers are investigating the rapid disappearance of kelp forests, which could have enormous repercussions on ocean health and marine ecosystems. Scientists are employing techniques akin to fingerprint identification to document the causal relationship leading to the loss of kelp forests.