Ocean Seminar Series 2006-07
Oceans are coming under increasing stress and scrutiny as the last largely unregulated commons. Numerous fisheries have collapsed, coastal areas are prime spots for both development and natural disasters, the seabed is an important source of oil and gas, and our oceans are being targeted for many new uses, particularly to meet our energy needs.
ELI believes it is crucial for today’s environmental professional to understand ocean law and policy and the far-reaching effects this area has. For example, the lack of unified regulatory authority over coastal and ocean development makes siting and permitting ocean projects such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals and wind farms high risk propositions in need of skilled legal and technical advice. As a result, ELI is presenting a series of five Associates Seminars to tackle this important topic.
The five sessions are summarized below. The dates and locations of the final seminars will be announced shortly. As always, ELI members may elect to attend seminars in person or to audit the seminar via teleconference.
April 18, 2006, Environmental Law Institute, Washington, DC
We provided a background understanding of current ocean law and policy issues including a broad discussion of the activities that have occurred since the release of the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy and Pew Oceans Commission reports.
July 25, 2006, Environmental Law Institute, Washington, DC
This seminar explored some of the major legal and policy issues related to shipping and the environment, including whale strikes, ship noise, and invasive species introduction.
November 1, 2006, Environmental Law Institute, Washington, DC
Experts will discuss the governance of international waters and fisheries, the existing efforts to regulate and manage these international resources, and the environmental impacts of fisheries and aquaculture.
January 10, 2007, The DC Bar, Washington, DC
The U.S. oceans hold vast energy resources, both renewable and non-renewable, which can help satisfy U.S. energy needs. This series of panel discussions will assist participants in understanding the legal and policy issues associated with developing our energy potential on the Outer Continental Shelf.
February 6, 2007, Environmental Law Institute, Washington, DC
The U.S. currently imports approximately 70% of its seafood, and of this, 40% is farm-raised. This seminar will discuss the current environmental challenges facing aquaculture, laws and policies that regulate existing aquaculture practices, and expanding and emerging sectors such as offshore aquaculture.
Domestic Fisheries
Date and Location TBA
There is significant pressure for reauthorization of the Magnuson-Stevens Act this year. This seminar will discuss these developments on the Hill along with regulation of recreational fishing, creation of Marine Protected Areas, and expanding aquaculture – both onshore and offshore.
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