Conserving Ocean Life in America – Reflections from State Managers and Practitioners on Implementing the National Ocean Biodiversity Strategy

On September 26 2024, the Lenfest Ocean Program and co-chairs of the Lenfest-supported project, Marine Biodiversity Dialogues, hosted a virtual panel featuring state and regional managers and legislators from across the U.S. The discussion focused on the critical partnerships and strategies needed to implement the National Ocean Biodiversity Strategy. Panelists shared insights into their ongoing efforts to protect marine biodiversity and connect their work to the Strategy. The event was introduced by Emily Knight and Jason Landrum of the Lenfest Ocean Program, along with Dr. Emmett Duffy of the Smithsonian Institution and Gabrielle Canonico of the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System, and moderated by Lauren Wenzel, Director of NOAA's MPA Center. Panelists included Ruperto Chaparro, Michelle Duval, Jenn Eckerle, Dylan McDowell, and Kawika Winter.