Marine Policy Institute

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the Marine Policy Institute at Mote created?
In 2003, as part of an overall strategic planning process, Mote Marine Laboratory’s Scientific Advisory Committee identified the need for a new policy component to complement the Research, Education and Aquarium divisions. The goal is to provide decision-makers with unbiased, credible and timely scientific information. The Institute will combine natural, physical marine science programs with social science research components. A key focus will be on two-way communication with policy makers, resource managers and stakeholder groups.

What is Marine Policy Institute’s mission?
The Marine Policy Institute’s primary mission is to improve the connection between scientific research and society. This involves providing timely, credible policy assessments and advice to decision-makers and stakeholders. Analyses will include diverse aspects of an issue (marine science, economics, societal components) and the ramifications of potential solutions. The Institute synthesizes and integrates research from a diverse range of scientific disciplines in addition to conducting its own research on the societal aspects connected to marine science. It also tries to stimulate better communication among different stakeholder groups, translating and mediating wherever possible.

How does the Marine Policy Institute differ from public outreach efforts?
In addition to creating the interface between the natural and social sciences, the Institute’s main audience will be policy makers and resource managers.

Why did Mote take on this role?
As an independent, nonprofit organization, Mote has long been recognized for its rigorous approach to science, so creating the Marine Policy Institute is a natural next step. Mote recognizes a real need for better ways to educate policy makers and the public about diverse aspects of pressing marine science issues and potential solutions. Such a need has been underscored in national reports (Pew Ocean Commission, U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy).  Mote also strongly believes that its independent status can be an advantage to help the Policy Institute act quickly when new issues arise.

Is the Marine Policy Institute an advocacy or lobbying organization?
No. The Marine Policy Institute’s goal is to provide answers to lawmakers about specific actions or policy. For instance, the Institute may look at an issue and provide information about likely outcomes, depending on various actions taken or not taken. The Institute will focus on synthesizing scientific studies and integrating them into policy analysis. It will not stake out policy positions as much as it will try to clarify risks, costs and benefits of policy options.

Does the Marine Policy Institute take positions on policy issues?
Occasionally, but it is not the Institute's main goal. If the Institute’s analysis suggests that a particular policy is or will be especially harmful or especially helpful, it will certainly say so. Mote believes that the Marine Policy Institute can be most effective as an honest broker in contested areas of science, rather than as a champion of a particular policy agenda.

Who works at the Marine Policy Institute?
Dr. Frank Alcock, Assistant Professor of Political Science at New College of Florida, is the Institute’s director. Other members include Ms. Barbara Lausche, an international environmental lawyer and an Adjunct Policy Associate at Mote and Dr. Michael Orbach, former Director of the Duke Marine Laboratory in Beaufort, N.C. and current member of Mote’s Scientific Advisory Board. Dr. Orbach also served as an adviser to the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy and the Pew Commission on Oceans.

What issues does the Marine Policy Institute address?
The range is broad. Subject to available resources, the Institute will respond to the needs of both the marine science and marine policy communities. Initial priorities included Florida red tide, marine zoning, fisheries management issues and a sustainable seafood initiative.
Click here for the Institute's first major policy assessment: An Assessment of Florida red tide: Causes, Consequences and Management Strategies.
Click here for the Institute's second major policy assessment: Policy Tools for Local Adaptation to Sea Level Rise.

How does Mote support this effort?
The New Amsterdam Charitable Foundation provided the initial start-up funding. The Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice has also provided key support for the Institute, which seeks grants from foundations, agencies and individuals. In appropriate cases, the Institute may also apply for state or federal dollars to support research projects or programs.