Save the Bay, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and improving Narragansett Bay, has awarded Prof. Candace Oviatt, (PhD 1967), professor of oceanography at URI’s Graduate School of Oceanography, with a lifetime achievement award. Nominated by Judith Swift, Director of the Coastal Institute, and Tom Borden of the Narragansett Bay Estuary Program, Prof. Oviatt “is one of the most respected experts in the study of coastal ecosystems, with a particular emphasis on the study of Narragansett Bay,” Swift and Borden said in their nomination. As director of the University’s Marine Ecosystems Research Lab, Oviatt’s research, which has spanned decades, has provided strong scientific foundation for RIDEM actions requiring significant reductions in nutrient pollutant loadings to upper Narragansett Bay and has been instrumental in advancing water pollution control and protection of Rhode Island coastal waters. Swift and Borden add that she has recently provided scientific input to the development of a new statewide shellfish management plan, supports workshops that bring together resources managers and academic researchers with the goal of fostering information exchange, and leaves a legacy of graduate and undergraduate students who have been inspired to pursue degrees and careers in marine sciences.

Of her award, Oviatt says, “I am very surprised and honored to be chosen for Save The Bay’s Lifetime Achievement Award. I have always appreciated the advocacy work of Save The Bay for being the watchdog of the Bay and for the great restoration efforts for Bay habitats.”

Congratulations to Prof. Oviatt on this prestigious honor.