NOAA Science Seminar Series

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Exploring sampling approaches for NSSL's UAS applications

Presenter(s): Alejandro Medina, Graduate Fellow, NOAA Office of Education, Educational Partnership Program with Minority Serving Institutions (EPP/MSI), NOAA Cooperative Science Center for Earth System Science and Remote Sensing Technologies II (CESSRST II) Cohort 3 Fellow at the University of Texas in El Paso

Sponsor(s): NOAA EPP/MSI Cooperative Science Centers

Seminar Contact(s): Audrey.Trotman@noaa.gov and oed.epp10@noaa.gov

Remote Access: Video call link: https://meet.google.com/jiv-gdsq-yqnOr dial: (US)+1 317-743-0482 PIN: 432472 357#More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/jiv-gdsq-yqn?pin=5794624055538

Accessibility: Google Meet closed captioning available.

Abstract: This research, conducted at NOAA's National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL), developed a framework to close critical data gaps in boundary-layer observations, a region essential for predicting severe weather. Traditional uncrewed aerial system (UAS) flights follow fixed paths, limiting adaptability to evolving atmospheric conditions. To address this, we introduced an unsupervised clustering algorithm trained on radiosonde data from the Integrated Global Radiosonde Archive (IGRA). The algorithm detects structural patterns in vertical temperature profiles and informs adaptive sampling strategies. The framework allows a UAS to first collect a baseline profile, then compare new flight data against clustering results to determine which atmospheric layers are undersampled or highly variable. The UAS can then adjust its flight behavior, spending more time in regions with sparse data rather than distributing measurements uniformly. Implementation combined Python-based preprocessing and clustering workflows with MATLAB and ArduPilot simulations, integrating the approach into CopterSonde, a boundary-layer UAS platform already used in NOAA OAR laboratories. Early tests show the feasibility of real-time adaptive sampling. This work paves the way for UAS operations that actively reduce data gaps, sharpen the resolution of boundary-layer measurements, and strengthen NOAA's forecasting capabilities in support of the Weather-Ready Nation initiative. The results are from the NOAA EPP/MSI CSCNERTO graduate internship project conducted with NOAA mentor Dr. Elizabeth Smith of the Oceanic and Atmospheric Research, National Severe Storms Laboratory. The NERTO aligns with NOAA CSC CESSRST-II's mission to advance earth system science, remote sensing, and data-driven environmental solutions, in support of NOAA's goals of a Weather-Ready Nation, Resilient Coastal Communities, and Climate Adaptation. The NERTO Exploring sampling approaches for NSSL's UAS applications also deepened the intern's understanding of NOAA operational workflows, scientific communication, and collaborative research environments, while strengthening professional skills such as technical reporting, cross-disciplinary teamwork, and real-time presentation of scientific results.

Bio(s): Alejandro Medina is a NOAA Cooperative Science Center Fellow for the Center for Earth System Science and Remote Sensing Technologies (CESSRST-II). Alejandro Medina is a master's student in Computer Engineering at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), where he also earned his B.S. in Electrical Engineering. In partnership with NOAA's National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL), Alejandro's current research focuses on developing unsupervised learning algorithms for adaptive sampling of atmospheric temperature profiles using UAS platforms. He aims to improve data coverage in the planetary boundary layer to enable more accurate weather forecasting. Beyond atmospheric sensing, his broader interests include embedded systems, remote sensing, and real-time data processing. He has completed internships at NSSL, Bell Helicopter, and the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), where he contributed to projects involving autonomous flight systems and time-sensitive networking. While many researchers focus on answering scientific questions, Alejandro is driven to improve the technological infrastructure that enables those answers. His passion lies in designing systems that empower others to explore, observe, and understand the natural world more effectively. Alejandro Medina is supported as a Cohort 3 Graduate Fellow in the NOAA Center for Earth System Sciences and Remote Sensing Technologies (CESSRST-II) award.For more information access the webpage for the Cooperative Science Centers, https://www.noaa.gov/office-education/epp-msi/csc/20212022-awards and NERTO, www.noaa.gov/eppnerto/.
Subscribe/Unsubscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Collaborative efforts reveal new insights into the ecology, behavior and evolution of Antarctic seals

Presenter(s): Dr. Carolina Lewallen, Faculty, NOAA Office of Education, Educational Partnership Program with Minority Serving Institutions (EPP/MSI), NOAA Living Marine Resources Cooperative Science Center II (LMRCSC II) at Hampton University

Sponsor(s): NOAA EPP/MSI Cooperative Science Centers

Seminar Contact(s): Audrey.Trotman@noaa.gov and oed.epp10@noaa.gov

Remote Access: Video call link: https://meet.google.com/pzf-qeoj-kkrOr dial: (US) +1 240-560-3742 PIN: 466 019 871#More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/pzf-qeoj-kkr?pin=3742303332311

Accessibility: Google Meet closed captioning available.

Abstract: Antarctic seals are experiencing significant alterations in their abundance and distribution. Particularly in the north Antarctic Peninsula (NAP), sea ice loss has accelerated in the past two decades and a southward shift in krill distribution range is impacting krill-dependent predator populations. Yet, there are key gaps in our understanding of behavior and ecology of Antarctic seal species, due to the difficulty of accessing the remote habitat they occupy and their circumpolar distribution. Our Marine Mammal Molecular Ecology Lab (https://bonincarolina.wixsite.com/mammel) at Hampton University has been collaborating with scientists at the US Antarctic Marine Living Resources Program (US AMLR; NOAA SWFSC- US AMRL website) to employ genetic and genomic tools to help close some of these gaps. This talk will focus on leopard and Weddell seals' ecology at the NAP revealed by population genetics studies that were led by graduate students funded by NOAA LMRCSC, which were conducted alongside genomic studies funded by the National Science Foundation at Hampton University. Examples of our contributions include insights into effective population size and social structure of leopard seals and circumpolar gene flow in Weddell seals. In our studies, we leverage decades of monitoring and sampling work by US AMLR scientists while offering unique training opportunities to graduate students at Hampton University.

Bio(s): Dr. Carolina Lewallen, I am a marine biologist trained in population genetics and the use of molecular tools to study the ecology and behavior of marine mammals. I earned my PhD at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography University of California San Diego studying Antarctic fur seals and prior to that, I worked for many years for NOAA Southwest Fisheries Science Center, where I still active collaborations. My research interests are centered around three research avenues: 1) genetic diversity (how it is partitioned among populations and how it can inform us about past demographic histories); 2) marine mammal adaptations and their genomic/ epigenomic signatures; 3) marine mammal behavior; particularly social structure and mating systems. Dr. Carolina Lewallen is a faculty member in the NOAA Living Marine Resources Cooperative Science Center II (LMRCSC II) at Hampton University award. For more information access the webpage for the Cooperative Science Centers, https://www.noaa.gov/office-education/epp-msi/csc/20212022-awards and NERTO, www.noaa.gov/eppnerto/.
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NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Planktonic foraminifera shell morphologies as an indicator of ocean acidification along the West Florida Shelf

Presenter(s): Amonra Garrett-Mills, Graduate Scholar, NOAA Office of Education, Educational Partnership Program with Minority Serving Institutions (EPP/MSI), NOAA Cooperative Science Center for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems II (CCME II) Cohort 1 Scholar at Florida A&M University

Sponsor(s): NOAA EPP/MSI Cooperative Science Centers

Seminar Contact(s): Audrey.Trotman@noaa.gov and oed.epp10@noaa.gov

Remote Access: Video call link: https://meet.google.com/zwz-vgvq-wfcOr dial: (US) +1 631-820-6288 PIN: 337 393 351#More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/zwz-vgvq-wfc?pin=2746139714346

Accessibility: Google Meet closed captioning available.

Abstract: Rising atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations and CO2 dissolution into seawater trigger a series of chemical reactions that lower ocean pH and reduce carbonate (CO3) ion availability. The resulting ocean acidification (OA) adversely affects marine calcifiers by diminishing the bioavailability of CO3 ions required for shell and skeletal formation. Microcalcifiers like planktonic and benthic foraminifera demonstrate decreased calcification rates and increased shell dissolution under these altered conditions. X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) scanning enables high-resolution visualization and analysis of shell surface features, internal structures, and dissolution severity. A standardized methodology for scanning and acquiring real-world comparable density measurements of microcalcifiers supports the use of these organisms as proxy tools for seawater carbonate chemistry in the Gulf of America and Atlantic. These tools can provide insight into ecosystem dynamics. Imaging archived samples contributes to our understanding of species-specific responses to environmental stressors and improves our ability to predict how other micro-calcifiers may respond to future ecosystem changes. This seminar presents results from the NOAA Experiential Research and Training Opportunity (NERTO) conducted at NOAA/AOML. Preliminary findings indicate dissolution in the shells of Hoeglundina elegans, an aragonitic benthic foraminifer collected from the West Florida Continental Shelf Escarpment in the Gulf of America.

Bio(s): Amonra Garrett-Mills is a NOAACCME-II graduate scholar and an environmental science master's student at the Florida A&M University School of the Environment specializing in marine and estuarine ecosystems. She holds a bachelor's degree in Environmental Science from Florida A&M University where she developed a strong foundation in environmental research and policy. Her academic and research interests center on addressing the impacts of climate stressors and developing practical, science-based solutions to protect vulnerable ecosystems and communities. As part of her training, Amonra participated in a NOAA Experiential Research and Training Opportunity (NERTO) under the guidance of Dr. Emily Osborne with the NOAA AOML Ocean Chemistry and Ecosystems Division. Amonra is passionate about advancing environmental sustainability and contributing to innovative strategies that address today's most pressing climate challenges.Amonra Garrett-Mills is supported as a Cohort 1 Graduate Scholar in the NOAA Center for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems (CCME-II) award.For more information access the webpage for the Cooperative Science Centers, https://www.noaa.gov/office-education/epp-msi/csc/20212022-awards andNERTO, www.noaa.gov/eppnerto/.
Subscribe/Unsubscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov withthe word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Living Shoreline Research, Outreach, and Training

Presenter(s): Narita Ramirez, Graduate Scholar, NOAA Office of Education, Educational Partnership Program with Minority Serving Institutions (EPP/MSI), NOAA Cooperative Science Center for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems II (CCME II) Cohort 4 Scholar at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

Sponsor(s): NOAA EPP/MSI Cooperative Science Centers

Seminar Contact(s): Audrey.Trotman@noaa.gov and oed.epp10@noaa.gov

Remote Access: Video call link: https://meet.google.com/wfs-ugbj-croOr dial: (US) +1 762-847-5194 PIN: 574 837 848#More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/wfs-ugbj-cro?pin=2372778667807

Accessibility: Google Meet closed captioning available.

Abstract: The nearshore land-sea continuum is a vital ecological zone that supports shoreline stability, habitat diversity, and water quality. Along the Mississippi"Alabama coasts, accelerating habitat loss has increased reliance on hard-armoring methods such as bulkheads and seawalls, despite their ecological impacts. Living shorelines, a Natural and Nature-Based Feature(NNBF), provide a sustainable alternative by stabilizing shorelines while creating habitat and improving water quality. This internship evaluated the Mississippi State University Coastal Research Extension Center (MSU CREC)Living Shoreline Technical Assistance Program, which offers free shoreline assessments, designs, and permitting support to private property owners. Stakeholder engagement revealed barriers to adoption, including limited access to materials, funding, and permitting guidance, which constrain broader use. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated research, outreach, and policy. Initial findings highlight the importance of technical assistance programs in raising awareness, reducing obstacles, and supporting monitoring to evaluate ecological performance and advance resilient coastal management. The results are from the NOAA EPP/MSI CSC NERTO graduate internship project conducted with NOAA mentors Dr. Jennifer Webster of NOAA NESDIS and Dr. Eric Sparks of MS-AL Sea Grant. The NERTO aligns with the NOAA CCME-II award's goals of advancing nature-based solutions for resilient coasts and promoting community engagement in shoreline management.

Bio(s): Narita Ramirez is a NOAA EPP Center for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems-II graduate scholar pursuing her M.S. in Environmental Science at Texas A&M University"Corpus Christi. Her research is supervised by Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Harte Research Institute's Endowed Chair for Marine Policy and Law, Kristina Alexander, J.D. She previously earned a B.S. in Environmental Science with a concentration in Marine and Coastal Resources from TAMU-CC in Fall 2022. Narita's research focuses on how post-construction monitoring terms for living shoreline projects along the Texas Gulf Coast can mitigate effects of rising sea levels and how itis crucial for long-term coastal management. This shift aims to ensure that these nature-based solutions are not only effective in present times but also resilient and adaptive to future climate challenges. Through this research, she wants to understand how the design and implementation features of living shoreline projects around the Texas Gulf Coast affect the ability to maintain shoreline stability over time in the face of sea-level rise. Upon completion of her M.S., her future goal is to work for NOAA participating in field assessments gathering data to evaluate the effectiveness and ecological benefits of living shoreline projects along coastal ecosystems.Narita Ramirez is supported as a Cohort 4 Graduate Scholar in the NOAA Center for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems (CCME-II) award.For more information access the webpage for the Cooperative Science Centers, https://www.noaa.gov/office-education/epp-msi/csc/20212022-awards andNERTO, www.noaa.gov/eppnerto/.
Subscribe/Unsubscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov withthe word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Winter Weather Applications of LEO Imagery and Products
LEO Science Seminar Series

Presenter(s): Bill Line, Physical Scientist and Imagery Product Lead, NOAA/NESDISCenter for Satellite Applications and Research (STAR), Fort Collins, Colorado

Sponsor(s): NOAA/NESDIS Office of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Observations

Seminar Contact(s): Amy Leibrand (amy.leibrand@noaa.gov)

Remote Access:
Google Meet joining info
https://meet.google.com/njw-nqst-rmv
Or dial: (US) +1 317-947-4502 PIN: 928 573 905#


Accessibility: N/A

Abstract: This seminar will highlight how LEO imagery and products support winter weather forecasting. Applications of VIIRS single-band imagery and RGBs will be discussed, including detection of low clouds and fog, identification of blowing snow and visibility hazards, snowpack monitoring, and assessment of sea spray and freezing spray. Snowfall rate products, NUCAPS soundings, and CrIS water vapor imagery will be shown for diagnosing snowfall intensity, thermodynamic structure, and synoptic-scale features. These capabilities provide the greatest benefits over Alaska, and are valuable supplements to GOES over the CONUS.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Request from Seminar Contact

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NOAA Science Seminar Series



Title: The irresistible force meets the immovable object: change in fishery-independent surveys

Presenter(s): Derek Bolser, NOAA Fisheries, Office of Science and Technology

Sponsor(s): Groundfish Seminar Series - Alaska Fisheries Science Center, Resource Assessment and Conservation Engineering Division, Groundfish Assessment Program

Seminar Contact(s): Lewis Barnett (lewis.barnett@noaa.gov)

Remote Access:
https://noaanmfs-meets.webex.com/noaanmfs-meets/j.php?MTID=mbe01f3e169bea7a0f4e6d171ab60eb39
Meeting number: 2826 201 4288
Password: gfish25
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Meeting number: 2826 201 4288

Accessibility: Closed captioning is available live during the via a WebEx toggle.

Abstract: TBD

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Seminar recordings will be posted here within a week of the presentation if permission is granted by the presenter.

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NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Statistical Spills, Numerical Models, and Most Likely Outcomes from a Major Spill in the Salish Sea

Presenter(s): Rachael Mueller (NOAA OR&R & Genwest Systems, Inc.)

Sponsor(s): NOAACoastal Ocean Modeling Seminars: https://coastaloceanmodels.noaa.gov/seminar/

SeminarContact: Alexander.Kurapov@noaa.gov

Remoteaccess: Connect with Google Meet meet.google.com/kti-ktaw-nes,
PhoneNumbers (US)+1414-856-5982 PIN: 248 179#

Abstract: The Salish Sea hosts around 8,300 deep draft vessel transits each year, ~45 billion liters of oil transported as cargo each year, eight marine oil transfer terminals, five oil refineries, two major shipping ports, andyeseven a partridge in a pear tree. Although it is a major shipping corridor between Vancouver Island and the mainlands of the United States and Canada, this semi-enclosed, estuarine environment is most known for its rich ecosystem and diversity of lives and livelihoods across two non-Indigenous nations and over 80 Indigenous nations. This research aims to support planning and preparation for a major spill event to help protect this legacy. We created a Monte Carlo method to statistically generate 10,000 oil spill scenarios and outcomes using 2018 Automatic Identification System (AIS) ship traffic data, state regulated oil transfer data, and a suite of numerical models. The MOHID oil spill model simulated these 10,000 spill scenarios with 3D hydrodynamics from SalishSeaCast to capture the distinct oceanographic regions of surface and vertical transport in the Salish Sea, between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2018. Similarly, Wave Watch III HRDPS models were used as inputs for wave and wind forcing. Each of the 10,000 oil spill scenarios was run individually and includes weathering from biodegradation, dissolution, dispersion, emulsification, evaporation, and spreading. Our approach captures monthly variability in 2018 marine traffic and represents the risk of spilled Alaska North Slope Crude, Bunker-C, and Marine Diesel under a variety of environmental conditions. We show that heterogeneity of 3D circulation in this estuarine environment, combined with 2018 marine traffic footprints, creates regionally-variable risks of the timing, location, and type of potential oiling within the Salish Sea.
Slides, Recordings, OtherMaterials: TBDSubscribe to the NOAA ScienceSeminar Series weekly email: Sendan e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body.Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions andideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Fishy Love Songs: Eavesdropping on Fish Chorusing in California National Marine SanctuariesSeries: National Marine Sanctuaries Webinar Series

Presenter(s): Ella Bea Kim, PhD Candidate at Scripps Institution of Oceanography and NOAA Dr. Nancy Foster ScholarRegister: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7141419733301360220

Sponsor(s): NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries

Seminar Contact(s): Claire.Fackler@noaa.gov

Abstract: The iconic deep bass of whale song and high frequency echolocation clicks of dolphins are familiar to many, yet few know of the croaking and drumming of fish. Fish chorusing is when many, usually male fish, produce sound together, often for mating purposes. By eavesdropping on fish sounds, we can better understand which, where, when, and how fish reproduce, and use this knowledge to protect important fishes and habitats. Join PhD candidate, Ella Kim, as she shares about all we can learn when we listen to fish!

Accessibility: English captions will be provided for the recording.Recording: The presentation will be recorded; once captioned it will be hosted on the archived webpage: https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/education/teachers/webinar-series-archives.html.

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NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Applications of the Joint Polar Satellite System in Observing Long-Term Changes on the Earth
LEO Science Seminar Series

Presenter(s): Josh Reiter, Satellite Imagery Producer and Communicator, Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA) / ColoradoState University

Sponsor(s): NOAA NESDIS Office of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Observations

Seminar Contact(s): Amy Leibrand, amy.leibrand@noaa.gov

Remote Access:
Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/sud-vjom-efk
Or dial: (US) +1 414-909-5174 PIN: 656 870 196#

Accessibility: N/A

Abstract: Since the launch of Suomi-NPP in 2011, there has been over a decade's worth of high-resolution imagery from all over the world captured by the Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS). Over that period, many changes have occurred across the Earth's surface, and JPSS has been there to document them, utilizing the onboard VIIRS instrument. Examples such as the changing water levels of hydrological systems over a sustained period will be included. From natural processes to manmade developments, this presentation will showcase imagery from JPSS of these features observed over the course of months to years.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials:Email the seminar contact.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Waste from Space: Characterizing Wastewater in the Tijuana River Estuary using Laboratory, In Situ, and EMIT Satellite Spectroscopy

Presenter(s): EvaScrivner, Universityof Connecticut

Sponsor(s): NOAA Ocean Color Coordinating Group (NOCCG)

Remote Access: https://meet.google.com/hnd-zams-bgo

Seminar Contact(s): Cara.Wilson@NOAA.gov

Abstract: Hundreds of millions of liters of untreated wastewater aredischarged into the Tijuana River annually, impacting communities on both sidesof the US-Mexico border. Current monitoring methods are resource-intensive andlimited in coverage. Optical satellite imaging may enable broaderspatiotemporal monitoring, yet retrievals of bacterial concentrations and otherkey water quality indicators remain challenging. Herewe investigate the utility of spectroscopic sensors to monitor the presence ofwastewater in this estuarine-coastal system, as a proxy for bacterialconcentrations and other water quality parameters. We prepared dilutions ofuntreated wastewater and uncontaminated seawater, measuring visible throughshortwave infrared (VSWIR; 350"2500 nm) reflectance spectra of eachsample. At high wastewater concentrations, a distinct spectral feature centerednear 620 nm strongly correlated with paired water quality measurements.This feature is additionally observed in multispectral resolution, in fieldobservations, and in hyperspectral satellite imagery. An example application ofplume mapping with this feature is presented, representing one of the earliestadoptions of EMIT hyperspectral satellite imagery for water quality monitoring. These results are promisingfor the use of spectroscopic sensors to map and monitor wastewater pollution inthe Tijuana River Estuary and potentially, similarly polluted coastal andestuarine systems.Speaker

Bio(s): Eva Scrivner is an optical oceanographer whose workcharacterizes phytoplankton bio-optics and coastal dynamics through in situand satellite spectroscopy. She is currently a PhD student at the University ofConnecticut under the advisement of Dr. Heidi Dierssen, where she investigatesthe dynamic phytoplankton bio-optics of the Western Antarctic Peninsula towardimproving retrievals of pigments and productivity in Antarctic coastal waters.
Previously, Eva was a research assistant at San Diego StateUniversity, where she developed remote sensing approaches for coastalwater-quality monitoring in the Tijuana River Estuary, an ecosystem affected bymore than 40 years of frequent to near-continuous hazardous wastewaterdischarge. She has also contributed to approaches for discriminating benthicgreen macroalgae from seagrass using hyperspectral satellite imagery (PRISMA),work that has led her to now serve on the IOCCG Benthic Reflectance Expert WorkingGroup.Eva's research is unified by a central goal: to leverage insitu optical observations to best refine and develop hyperspectral remotesensing algorithms across diverse systems and applications.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Slides can be found at this link about 24 hours after the live webinar: https://www.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/star/PastSeminars_NOCCG.php

Subscribe to the One NOAA Science Seminar weekly email: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. https://www.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/star/OneNOAASeminars.php. For more information visit: https://www.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/star/NOAAScienceSeminars.php

NOAA Science Seminar Series
Title: Identifying the bacteria responsible for sea star wasting disease in the sunflower sea star (Pycnopodia helianthoides)

NOAA Library Seminar

Presenter(s): Melanie Prentice, Research Scientist, Hakai Institute

Sponsor(s): NOAA 'Omics and NOAA Library

Seminar Contact(s): Nicole Miller (nicole.miller@noaa.gov) and library.seminars@noaa.gov

Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/5534109

Abstract: Beginning in 2013, a prolific epidemic of sea star wasting disease (SSWD) swept the Pacific Coast of North America. Today, outbreaks of SSWD in this region continue. Across the two dozen asteroid species suspected to be afflicted by SSWD, the sunflower sea star has experienced the greatest losses, >90% of the global population of P. helianthoides has been lost in the last decade.The rapid disappearance of P. helianthoides further contributed to a trophic cascade involving unchecked population growth of their sea urchin prey which then overgrazed kelp forests. Key to the recovery of P. helianthoides and the kelp forest ecosystems, is the identification of the causative agent for SSWD. In this talk we present data leveraged from controlled challenge experiments and natural field outbreaks of SSWD in P. helianthoides to identify Vibrio pectenicida strain FHCF-3 as a causative agent of this disease.

Keywords: Sea star wasting disease, sunflower sea star, pathogen identification

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Central Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: From Data Deficient to Big Data in Shark Conservation

NOAA Library Seminars

Presenter(s): Francesco Ferretti, Virginia Tech, Assistant Professor of Fish and Wildlife Conservation

Sponsor(s): NOAA Education and NOAA Library

Seminar Contact(s): library.seminars@noaa.gov

Remote Access: https://vimeo.com/event/5495366

Accessibility: Captions are available during the live presentation and once uploaded to the NOAA Library YouTube Channel automatic captions are added. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.

Abstract: Citizen science and digital technologies offer cost-effective ways to address critical knowledge gaps for endangered, data-poor species like sharks, many of which are declining due to overfishing. To meet this need, we developed sharkPulse, a platform that automates the ingestion of online shark images to build the largest database of shark occurrence records to date. This approach provides a blueprint for leveraging AI, crowdsourcing, and big data to transform biodiversity monitoring and support conservation of data-limited populations.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Supply links here for slides, recordings, and any other supporting materials. You may also note here that materials will be linked here after the seminar.

Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Library YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Moving Toward Ecosystem Based Fisheries Management: Operationalizing the use of Ecosystem and Socioeconomic Profiles in management decisions

Presenter(s): Stephanie Owen, NOAA NEFSC

Sponsor(s): U.S. Climate-Fisheries Seminar Series; coordinator is
Vincent.Saba@noaa.gov Location: Webinar

Abstract: TBD

Bio(s): TBD

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an email to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the One NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information.

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: December NWS Alaska Climate Outlook Briefing


Presenter(s): Rick Thoman, Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness

Sponsor(s): NOAA/OAR/Climate Program Office and the Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Preparedness (ACCAP)

Seminar Contact(s): Ed Plumb (ewplumb@alaska.edu) & Genie Bey (genie.bey@noaa.gov)

Remote Access: https://uaf-accap.org/event/dec2025-climate-outlook/

Abstract: During this month's Climate Outlook Briefing, we will review recent and current climate conditions around Alaska, discuss forecasting tools, and finish up with the Climate Prediction Center's forecast for January and early spring. Join the gathering online to learn what's happened and what may be in store with Alaska's seasonal climate.

Bio(s): Rick Thoman is the ACCAP Alaska Climate Specialist and has many years of experience producing reliable Alaska climate information and graphics describing Alaska's changing environment. His work spans the bridge between climate modeling, Alaska communities, and the media.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Slides, links shared during the presentation, and a recording may be found after the meeting at the URL listed above.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: A Web-Based Deep Learning Tool for Automated Coral Reef Halo Monitoring

Presenter(s): Elizabeth Madin, PhD (Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawaii at Mnoa) and Simone Franceschini, PhD (Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology)

Sponsor(s): NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program

Seminar Contact(s): Caroline Donovan, caroline.donovan@noaa.gov

Accessibility: Closed captioning available through Google Meet platform

Abstract: Coral reef halos, distinct sand rings surrounding patch reefs, offer a powerful ecological signal that can provide insight into predator presence, herbivore behavior, and overall reef health. In this talk, we will introduce our new web-based platform built in Python, which leverages deep learning to detect and quantify halo patterns from high-resolution satellite imagery automatically. Our goal is to demonstrate how AI-enabled detection can complement traditional survey methods, reduce manual interpretation time, and reveal spatial or temporal changes that might otherwise go unnoticed. The presentation will highlight opportunities for collaborative use of the platform, pathways for operational integration into NOAA programs, and upcoming features aimed at expanding accessibility for managers, researchers, and conservation partners.

Recordings: Seminar recording will be available afterward, as requested.

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Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Date & Time: 14 January 2026, 3 - 4 pm ET

Title: Habitat Heartbeats: Listening to What Oysters and Mussels Can Tell Us about Southern California Estuaries

Presenter(s):

• Luke Miller, San Diego State University

• Kristen Goodrich, Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve

Sponsor(s): This webinar is sponsored by the NERRS Science Collaborative

Seminar Contact(s): Doug George (douglas.george@noaa.gov) or Nick Soberal (nsoberal@umich.edu)

Remote Access: https://umich.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_c2ajZAyBSTewP3k0SnIKzQ

Abstract
Southern California's estuaries can experience large swings in water quality due to events like freshwater inflow, sewage spills, and estuary mouth closures. The Tijuana River NERR (TRNERR) monitors several estuaries in San Diego County to better understand how biological communities respond to changes in water quality. Through an iterative process with TRNERR and other users, this project team co-developed a biosensor monitoring system that uses shellfish (oysters and mussels) as biosentinels. Alongside state and local land managers and other wetland and aquaculture professionals, the team designed an open-source electronic sensor that attaches to shellfish and monitors gaping behavior and heart rate. These metrics that can be used as indicators of physiological stress in response to environmental changes.

In this webinar, the project team will describe their collaborative process within the team and with additional potential end users. Potential users included resource managers, aquaculture practitioners, and research biologists working with these bivalves in other settings. The team will describe the basic components of the biosensor equipment and approaches used in the field and lab for gathering and analyzing data. Data from the focal estuaries will be used to illustrate individual and group responses of the biosentinel bivalves to rapidly-shifting water quality conditions.

Bio(s): Please visit here for more information about the webinar.

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Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Whales, Wonder, and the Santa Barbara Channel: How Whale Heritage Areas Inspire Conservation and CareSeries: National Marine Sanctuaries Webinar Series

Presenter(s): Holly Lohuis, Marine biologist, naturalist and Co-Director of the Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage AreaRegister: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/802884732754132054

Sponsor(s): NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries

Seminar Contact(s): Claire.Fackler@noaa.gov

Abstract: Join marine biologist, naturalist, and Co-Director of the Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage Area, Holly Lohuis, as she shares stories of the diversity of whales that feed and travel through the Santa Barbara Channel and the waters of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Through the lens of the Whale Heritage Area designation, discover how responsible tourism, community engagement, and education play a vital role in protecting whales and fostering a deeper connection to our ocean.

Accessibility: English captions will be provided for the recording.Recording: The presentation will be recorded; once captioned it will be hosted on the archived webpage: https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/education/teachers/webinar-series-archives.html.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail:
Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!

NOAA Science Seminar Series

Title: Low Earth Orbit Satellite Observations: A Key Element in Enhancing Tropical Cyclone Predictions
LEO Science Seminar Series

Presenter(s): Dr. Isaac Moradi, Research Scientist, Earth System Science Interdisciplinary Center (ESSIC) / Cooperative Institute for Satellite Earth System Studies (CISESS), University of Maryland, College Park, and NASA Global Modelling and Assimilation Office, Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC)

Sponsor(s): NOAA/NESDIS Office of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Observations

Seminar Contact(s): Amy Leibrand, amy.leibrand@noaa.gov

Remote Access:
Google Meet joining info
https://meet.google.com/oqb-wusn-jqu
Or dial: (US) +1 414-909-7504 PIN: 764 065 528#


Accessibility: N/A

Abstract: Tropical cyclones are among the most destructive natural disasters, causing widespread damage and loss of life each year. Accurate forecasting, driven by satellite observations and high-resolution numerical models, is essential for mitigating their impact. This seminar examines how assimilating observations from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites and increasing model resolution enhance cyclone track predictions, helping to prevent delayed warnings and minimize unnecessary evacuations.

Slides, Recordings, Other Materials: Email seminar contact.

Subscribe to the NOAA Science Seminar Series weekly e-mail: Send an e-mail to OneNOAAscienceseminars-request@list.woc.noaa.gov with the word 'subscribe' in the subject or body. Visit the NOAA Science Seminar Series website for more information. We welcome your suggestions and ideas!