January 2009
Sunbathers' towels will cover this Cape Henlopen beach during summer, but for now, ice blankets the sand. CMES researchers continuously work to understand the state's and the world's long-term climate patterns. Some are improving our understanding of past climate history, while others are studying ongoing changes to our ocean and coastal environments. CMES researchers also are looking at ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the use of alternative energy. (Photo by Lisa Tossey)

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February 2009
From its smooth black shell to its pearly violet interior, the blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) is an attractive Delaware seafood resource. A plethora of other shellfish and finfish are found here as well, and Delaware Sea Grant educates members of the public and the seafood industry on how to prepare them healthfully and safely. For information on workshops, publications, and more, call 302-831-8083. (Photo by Lisa Tossey)

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March 2009
As one of the largest estuaries on the East Coast, Delaware Bay provides a unique living library for researchers. This photo shows a view from the aft (rear) deck of the University of Delaware's research ship, R/V Hugh R. Sharp, taken during a study of fish larvae entering the bay from offshore spawning areas. The Sharp supports a wide variety of research in chemical, geological, physical, and biological sciences. (Photo by Tim Targett)

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April 2009
White Clay Creek's emerald banks and rocky bottom might not conjure thoughts of the coast, but that's where these waters flow. You can help ensure cleaner ocean water by using less fertilizer this spring. Rain washes lawn chemicals into local waterways, which make their way to the sea. Once in the waterways, the chemicals can fuel an overgrowth of algae and disturb ecosystems. (Photo by Lisa Tossey)

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May 2009
This laughing gull enjoys a marsh in Rehoboth Bay, but the tranquil spring scene belies a struggle at hand. Many marshes like this one face rising sea levels, which may outpace wetland plants' ability to build up the soil as they grow, die, and decompose. Delaware Sea Grant botanists are working to identify the best varieties of native plant species that thrive in the face of rising waters. (Photo by Lisa Tossey)

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June 2009

Each May and June, hundreds of thousands of horseshoe crabs come to Delaware's sandy shores to spawn. Concurrently, migrating shorebirds make a pit stop here, where they gobble up the crabs' nutritious eggs. Delaware Sea Grant economists are measuring this event's economic value to birdwatchers and to the general population of the state. This information will be useful in evaluating the degree to which horseshoe crab harvest limits help the red knot and other migrating bird species. (Photo by Lisa Tossey)

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July 2009

Class is in Session — At the Beach - For these CEOE students, the world is their classroom. In addition to gaining critical field skills—as they are here, during a field trip to Delaware Seashore State Park—students work directly with faculty and perform independent research. CEOE students leave the university prepared to tackle complex environmental challenges in rewarding careers at institutions and agencies around the globe. (Photo by Adam Skarke)

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August 2009

Flower Power - The brilliant flowers of the salt-tolerant seashore mallow (Kosteletzkya virginica) may look pretty, but this native plant is more than an eye pleaser. CEOE researchers are studying seashore mallow's potential as a source for biofuel. Not only might it serve as a possible renewable energy resource, but its ability to grow on nonarable land preserves farmland for growing food and conserves freshwater resources. (Photo by Jennifer Halchak)

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September 2009

Inland Jewels - The shallow waters and dense bottom grasses of Delaware's Inland Bays—Rehoboth, Indian River, and Little Assawoman—provide habitat for many aquatic creatures. However, increased development and recreational use have put pressure on this diverse ecosystem. Delaware Sea Grant is working with local organizations and citizens to monitor pollution levels, restore native populations of shellfish, and ensure these waters will be enjoyed by future generations. (Photo by Lisa Tossey)

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October 2009

A Sea Celebration - At Coast Day, the University of Delaware's annual celebration of the sea, thousands of visitors learn about the local and global importance of the ocean and coastal environment through ship tours, cooking contests, touch tanks, and other activities. Sponsored by CEOE and Delaware Sea Grant, the event is held every first Sunday in October at the Hugh R. Sharp Campus in Lewes, Del. (Photo by Bob Bowden)

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