Petition to Create a New ESA Section on Coastal and Marine Ecology

Organized by Natalia López Figueroa, Shelby Rinehart and Michael Schram

Coastal and marine ecosystems serve as crucial components of our planet, offering a unique blend of biodiversity, invaluable resources, and essential ecological services. Yet, these environments face mounting threats from climate change, pollution, habitat degradation, and overexploitation. In this era of profound environmental challenges, it is imperative to recognize the significance of coastal and marine Ecology and the pressing need for a dedicated ESA section to address these critical issues.

These coastal and marine ecosystems are intricately linked to terrestrial ecosystems, climatological patterns, and everything occurring in between. However, there has long been a division between the realms of marine and aquatic ecosystems, resulting in a notable misrepresentation of this vital branch of ecology. As a community, we share a consensus that there exists a notable disconnect within ESA. Ecologists attending marine science talks often find themselves at odds with sessions tailored for applicability to their research. We believe it’s time for an interdisciplinary section that unifies these elements. By doing so, we can seamlessly collaborate with researchers across multiple disciplines. After all, marine and coastal environments are inherently interconnected with most sections within ESA.

Let’s bridge the divide and create an ESA Coastal and Marine Ecology Section to foster collaboration, innovation, and a deeper understanding of the intricate web of life that exists in our oceans and along our coastlines. This dedicated section will not only strengthen ESA but also enrich the collective efforts to protect and conserve these vital ecosystems for future generations. Together, we can make a compelling case for the creation of this much-needed section.

Toward this aim, we, the undersigned, support creating a section dedicated to coastal and marine ecology within ESA’s membership.

The benefits of this section include:

• Creating a home within ESA and the Society’s work for coastal and marine ecologists
• A dedicated voice representing the interests of coastal and marine scientists on the ESA Council
• Dues money to increase the participation of marine and coastal ecologists in ESA activities
• Enhanced networking opportunities for coastal, marine and terrestrial ecologists, including students and early career professionals

All ESA members who support these goals are encouraged to sign this petition; it does not obligate one to join the section if approved by the ESA Council.