In September 2023, PI Dr. Victoria Keener and Project Specialist Chelsey Bryson traveled to Mo’orea, French Polynesia to attend the semi-annual International Ocean Science, Policy and Law Conference. The conference was organized by the Jon Van Dyke Institute (JVDI) and the Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, and the theme was Te Ara Moana, or “ocean pathway.” The meeting encompassed a range of sessions dedicated to blue pathways to island sustainability. It also served as the inaugural meeting of the Pacific Islands Marine Stations Association (PIMSA), created by JVDI to provide a vehicle for collaboration on ocean science and data, to disseminate information about funding and research opportunities, and to elevate young scholars and researchers.

The conference provided a unique setting where leading legal scholars came together with research scientists to discuss a wide range of pressing topics covering ocean threats, governance, science, and solutions. The week started with a visit to the CRIOBE International Research Station (pictured below), where participants heard from marine research stations across the Pacific and PI Dr. Victoria Keener gave a presentation on the current trends and impacts of climate change in the Pacific region, providing the climate background and context for working across science and policy spaces for the week ahead.

Later in the week, at UC Berkeley’s Gump Station, Project Specialist Chelsey Bryson gave a presentation on the opportunities and challenges of the Green Climate Fund in the Pacific as part of a larger discussion about governance and funding opportunities. Chelsey was also one of three rapporteurs, who presented the key themes of each day at the end of the meeting, such as access to scientific information and data, equity in community involvement, and regional engagement. From there, participants decided on goals and next steps for PIMSA.

On the last day, participants were given a tour of the nearby cultural and community center and heard from Hinano Teavai-Murphy, the Cultural Director of the Tetiaroa Society, before sharing a delicious last local Tahitian meal together.

Communications Manager Krista Jaspers happily tagged along for the week as well, eager at the chance to dive in Moorea’s crystal-clear waters. After a week of fruitful meetings, Chelsey and Victoria joined her on tour to swim with humpback whales on the south side of the island, where the team was greeted by a curious humpback calf – a powerful and welcome reminder of why we are dedicated to this work.