Pratt opens Ocean Currents Lecture Series with presentation on beach erosion

11:30 a.m., May 3, 2011--The University of Delaware School of Marine Science and Policy’s popular Ocean Currents Lecture Series is returning for another summer of exciting marine-related talks at UD’s Hugh R. Sharp Campus in Lewes. 

The lectures, which are free and open to the public, take place once a month from May through August. Talks begin at 7 p.m. in Room 104 of Cannon Lab at the Lewes campus on Pilottown Road. The events are free, but reservations are required.

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• June 6-9: Food and culture series
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The 2011 series begins Thursday, May 26, with a talk titled "Beach Erosion and Management in Delaware." Giving the lecture will be Tony Pratt, administrator of the Shoreline and Waterway Management Section of the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC). The talk will provide an overview of the forces that cause beach erosion as well as what the state does to combat beach erosion and why. 

In his role at DNREC Pratt oversees programs that address issues such as beach nourishment, beach construction, and coastal hazards. Pratt, who is an adjunct professor in UD’s Marine Policy Program, is a vice president of the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association. He also serves as chair of the government affairs committee for that organization.

For reservations, which are required due to limited seating, contact Michelle Scorziello at mkscorzi@udel.edu or 302-645-4346. Light refreshments are served at the hourlong lecture.

Learn more about events held by the School of Marine Science and Policy, which is housed in UD’s College of Earth, Ocean, and Environment.

Article by Elizabeth Boyle