Dr. Candace Oviatt, 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner

2016 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner

Dr. Candace Oviatt of Richmond, R.I. 

Director of the University of Rhode Island’s Marine Ecosystems Research Lab

Dr. Candace Oviatt, director of the University of Rhdoe Island's Marine Ecosystems Research Lab, was awarded Save The Bay's 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award.
Dr. Candace Oviatt, director of the University of Rhdoe Island’s Marine Ecosystems Research Lab, was awarded Save The Bay’s 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award.

Dr. Candace Oviatt “is one of the most respected experts in the study of coastal ecosystems, with a particular emphasis on the study of Narragansett Bay,” Judith Swift and Tom Borden said in their nomination. As director of the University of Rhode Island’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 Oviatt has recently provided scientific input to the development of a new statewide shellfish management plan, supports workshops that bring together resource 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.”