Support SMAST

UMass Dartmouth’s School for Marine Science and Technology leads the way in informing policy change, advancing science and innovation, and stewarding the next generation of scientists who will solve these critical threats to our ecosystem.

Through pioneering research and collaborations with state and federal agencies, SMAST faculty researchers, scientists, marine biologists, and engineers focus on four key directives that lead to growth and innovation in marine science, sustainability, and policy changes that address these challenges and preserve the health of our ecosystems regionally and around the world.

Protecting our oceans, securing our future

The coastal communities of New England are on the front lines of climate change. Our waters are being impacted more than anywhere else in the world with rising sea levels, warming waters, and disruptions to marine ecosystems. Here at UMass Dartmouth, the School for Marine Science and Technology (SMAST) is at the forefront of finding solutions to these critical environmental issues.

SMAST's work has real-world results both globally and locally.

• Bolstered New Bedford's fishing industry: Our stock assessments have helped make New Bedford the highest-valued fishing port in the U.S.
• Leading the way in offshore wind: We played a key role in environmental impact studies for the nation's first commercial-scale offshore wind project.
• World-class ocean modeling: Our lab is used by 38 countries to predict ocean currents, assess water quality, and more.
• Partnerships for change: We collaborate with state and federal agencies to inform policy decisions on fisheries, aquaculture, and coastal resilience.
• Innovative research tools: We develop cutting-edge technology like underwater video and trawl surveys to assess fish stocks.
• Education for the future: 94% of our graduates work in marine science fields, prepared to tackle the world's environmental challenges.

SMAST presents solutions to critical environmental issues

SMAST is a leader in informing policy change, advancing scientific research, and training the next generation of marine scientists. Our faculty researchers, scientists, and engineers focus on critical areas:

• Climate Change and Ocean Impacts: We study the complex interactions between climate change and our oceans, developing solutions for ocean preservation.
• Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture: We advance the science and technology needed for effective fishing management strategies and responsible aquaculture.
• Sustainable Energy Development: We conduct research to balance the needs of renewable energy with healthy fisheries and vibrant coastal communities.
• Coastal Ecosystem Resilience: We are dedicated to protecting and restoring coastal ecosystems to ensure biodiversity and resilience in the face of climate change.

Your investment will directly impact the health of our oceans and the future of our coastal economies.

Join us in making a difference

An investment in SMAST is an investment in the health of our planet, and the development of innovative solutions for a changing world. Your gift may be used to:

• Advance research capabilities: Upgrade our ocean modeling lab, build a glider fleet for improved surveying, and develop a coastal resilience program.
• Offer more programs: Your contribution will help us invest in our faculty and create new centers with endowed chairs on coastal system processes and windfarm impact.
• Serve more students: You can help increase scholarships and expand academic programming with additional minors and collaborations with the Honors College.

Together, we can ensure a healthy and vibrant future for our oceans and the coastal communities that depend on them.