Coastal Carolina University will host the 46th Annual Marine Benthic Ecology Meeting (BEM) jointly with the Southeastern Estuarine Research Society (SEERS) at the Sheraton Convention Center April 12-15. A number of sessions and events are open to the public.

"Sustainable Oceans in Theory and Practice" is the theme of the gathering, which will be attended by more than 600 marine scientists from around the nation and the world.

Of particular interest to the public, a panel on Thursday, April 13, from 10:30 a.m. to noon held in the main ballroom at the Sheraton Convention Center will present "Using Marine Science to Reset Damaged Coasts and Communities" and will focus on "Success stories of Restoration and Recovery from the Southeast and Gulf Coasts."

"We find ourselves in a political climate where many openly question the value of science in policymaking and providing solutions for the common good," says Keith Walters, professor of marine science at CCU and coordinator of the meeting. The special panel session will showcase research and evidence-based solutions to some critical environmental issues affecting our coasts.

Presenters include: Jennifer Pollack, Texas A&M University (oyster reefs); Brittany Blomberg, University of South Alabama (living shorelines); Susan Bell, University of South Florida (mangroves); E. V. Bell, South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium (salt marshes); Martin Posey, University of North Carolina Wilmington (oyster reefs); and Louise Firth, Plymouth University (hard shorelines).

This session will share case studies designed to evaluate the ability to restore damaged and preserve existing coastal ecosystems. With a spotlight on the Southeast and Gulf coasts, panel scientists will demonstrate how eco-engineering; recycling or up-cycling existing infrastructure; salt marsh, mangrove and oyster reef restoration; and sustainable aquaculture can benefit society, save money, improve coastal management and support the long-term health and resilience of coastal ecosystems and the people and communities who depend on them.

Also of public interest is a film festival on Thursday, April 13, with two showings between 6 and 8 p.m. in Wheelwright Auditorium on the CCU campus.

The "Beneath the Waves Film Festival" will include marine ecology films; the film festival is in its eighth year offering a selection of films highlighting marine issues that are designed to inspire conservation and discourse about the oceans and marine life.

For more information, contact Walters at 843-349-2477.