URI Surf Research Forum October 10th

The URI Surf Research Forum brings together Rhode Island surfers and researchers to connect, share ongoing research, discuss local surf-related issues, and identify key questions that can shape future research initiatives at URI.


Agenda Highlights

6:30-7:00 PM – Local Surf Film & Pizza
Get settled with pizza and a local surf film screening.

7:00-7:15 PM – Welcome & Introduction
Introductions and overview of purpose of forum.

7:15-7:30 PM – Local Surf History

  • Presentation on surf breaks in Aquidneck Island (Dave McLaughlin, RI Department of Environmental Management).
  • Open floor for others to share local surf history.

7:30-8:15 PM –  Collaborative Surf Science Panel & Q&A

  • Coastal resource economics (Peter Freeman, Coastal Resources Center – Moderator).
  • Surf protection law and public access (Jesse Reiblich, URI Marine Affairs).
  • Shoreline change (Nate Vinhateiro, Coastal Institute)
  • Coastal management and participatory science (Pam Rubinoff, Coastal Resource Center).
  • Water quality (Stan Brauer, Surfrider Foundation RI).
  • Social inclusion (Satya Sullivan, URI Marine Affairs).

Audience Q&A and additional questions, such as surfers’ role in citizen science and water quality.

8:15-9:00 PM – Opportunities for Future Research and Collaboration
Group brainstorming on future research topics.

9:00 PM – Wrap-Up
Closing remarks, thanks, and next steps.