Our Vision

To empower the people of New York, Indigenous Nations, and all visitors to make informed decisions that enhance and sustain healthy coastal ecosystems, communities, and economies.

Our Mission

“Bringing science to the shore” through high-quality research, extension, and education that fosters informed collaboration among individuals, communities, businesses, and decision-makers. Together, we work to conserve, use, and restore coastal resources to support sustainable and resilient environments, economies, and cultures.

Our Commitment

We are dedicated to fair and respectful engagement with all who live, work, and visit across New York’s coastal and Great Lakes regions. Our programs aim to reflect the range of perspectives and knowledge held by the many communities we serve. Through our work, we remain focused on building understanding, strengthening local capacity, and providing reliable information and services.

Our Values & Principles

Excellence, Objectivity, Integrity and Responsiveness 

We are committed to providing high-quality, science-based programs that reflect honesty, transparency, and a strong service ethic.

Stewardship and Sustainable Development

We promote practices that support the continued health and productivity of coastal ecosystems and economies for future generations.

Collaboration and Partnership

We work closely with partners from many sectors to identify needs, share knowledge, and develop solutions that reflect local priorities.

Education and Continuous Lifelong Learning

We offer programs for learners of all ages to enhance environmental literacy and build understanding of coastal issues, science, and solutions that can be applied in real-world settings.

Professionalism and Objective Competence

Our team is dedicated to ongoing learning and to responding effectively to emerging challenges and local concerns with timely, practical, and science-informed support. As a neutral party, we maintain a commitment to objective, unbiased, and non-advocacy research and programming, including in the development and delivery of trusted information, tools, and services.