The Ocean Science Advisory Council (SAC) is made up of nine scientists with expertise in the marine sciences and data management assembled to assist the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs in the science and technical aspects of developing and implementing the Massachusetts Ocean Management Plan. The SAC assists with: reviewing data sources and identifying other viable data, assisting in the development of the Baseline Assessment and characterization of the Massachusetts Ocean Management Planning Area, identifying "big picture" questions to improve understanding of the natural systems and/or human uses and influences, and helping to formulate a long-term strategy for addressing information gaps.
SAC Members
M.G.L. Chapter 21A, Section 4C(d), requires three scientists from specified categories (academic institutions; private, nonprofit organizations; and government agencies). It also requires scientists from four specified organizations (indicated with asterisks).
Academic Institutions
- University of Massachusetts Dartmouth School for Marine Science and Technology* - Kevin Stokesbury
- University of Massachusetts Boston, School for the Environment* - John Duff
- University of Massachusetts Boston, Urban Harbors Institute - Kristin Uiterwyk
Private, Nonprofit Organizations
- Massachusetts Fishermen's Partnership* - Jonathan Grabowski
- Conservation Law Foundation - Priscilla Brooks
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium - Jessica Redfern
Government Agencies
- Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game’s Division of Marine Fisheries* - Mark Rousseau
- Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management - Todd Callaghan
- U.S. Geological Survey Woods Hole Science Center - Laura Brothers