Founded by marine scientist Dr Deborah Brosnan as an innovative way that scientists can use their unique skills and knowledge to help solve environmental problems, SEI is an established leader in integrating science into environmental decisions. The Institute uses its “SEI Process,” a scientific review method, to successfully resolve critical environmental issues and controversies nationwide. Over 400 top scientists are formally affiliated with SEI through its Conservation Science Network. They form the backbone of SEI’s mission allowing it to tackle a diversity of issues. Dr. Steven Courtney directs the Institute’s activities.

OVERVIEW — Go here for a recent one page summary of “about, who, and what” of SEI. Use the side navigation on this page to navigate to more detailed information as well as archives. (Note- we are currently updating much information on this site.)

PROJECTS — Here you’ll find information on projects and initiatives, with links to events, transcripts, and reports.

New and Featured

SEI ALERT- Myanmar Cyclone: The ongoing tragedy in Myanmar has shocked us all. Dr Deborah Brosnan, marine natural disaster expert, is in touch with the situation there as far as possible. The Irrawaddy Delta bore the brunt of destruction,and there are a host of human, ecological, and endangered species concerns. Many pre-date the cyclone. The need for humanitarian and environmental response is great. Dr Brosnan has activated a SEI science advisory network. You can read more about the issues at www.deborahbrosnan.com. Also read the recent press article on the ecological connection to the future of the people in this region.

USGS Comprehensive Sturgeon Research Program Review: *FINAL SCIENTIFIC REPORT RELEASED* Download here. Read more about the Missouri River research.

Everglades Restoration: *FINAL SCIENTIFIC REPORT RELEASED* Download here. SEI is convening an avian/ecosystem review at the request of USFWS and the South Florida Ecosystems Restoration Task Force. There are several workshops, live webcasts, and reports. Go here for more information. The scientific findings and conclusions have been released in a main report and summary report. Next upcoming event—task force presentation, December 5-6, 2007.

Follow the ongoing work of Dr Deborah Brosnan in the science of natural disasters and how they impact lives, from SE Asia tsunami, to Hurricane Katrina and other global events. She founded the Tsunami Reef Action Fund to provide scientific and financial aid to devastated communities. And you can follow her latest marine efforts and adventures at deborahbrosnan.com (Contact her at 503 869 5769, or dehaan@deborahbrosnan.com)

Endangered Marine Atlantic Salmon - The scientific review panel has completed its findings.

Science, Law, and The Environment. Dr Brosnan together with environmental law professor Dan Rohlf is one of the founders of a new inter-disciplinary effort “Ecosynthesis” that brings law and science together. They recently convened an invitational workshop at Lewis and Clark’s Northwestern School of Law. Watch for Dr. Brosnan’s article on the making of a new discipline to appear in Environmental Law journal in the coming months, and for the new ecosynthesis blog-based website.