June 19, 2025
Rutgers University’s Center for Ocean Observing Leadership recently welcomed a distinguished delegation from Catalonia, Spain, and industry partners from California for two days of collaboration focused on advancing ocean observing technologies and sustainable fisheries management.
The visit, held June 17–18 at the Rutgers Department of Marine Science, brought together representatives from the General Directorate of Maritime Policies and Sustainable Fisheries of the Generalitat of Catalonia (DGPMPS), scientists from ICATMAR (Catalan Institute for Research for Marine Governance) and the Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC). Joining them were representatives from CODAR Ocean Sensors, Ltd., based in California, and Qualitas Remos, which operates CODAR Europe.
“This was an exciting opportunity to share ideas, compare best practices, and explore new ways we can work together to monitor and protect our oceans,” said Dr. Hugh Roarty, Research Project Manager at Rutgers.
The program featured presentations on current research activities, challenges, and emerging areas of collaboration. Participants discussed the use of high-frequency (HF) radar networks for coastal monitoring, fisheries management, and maritime governance. A highlight of the visit included a tour of Rutgers’ Glider Laboratory, showcasing the university’s cutting-edge ocean observing capabilities.
Roundtable discussions and working sessions allowed the group to exchange ideas on how to strengthen international cooperation, improve the management and sustainability of HF radar networks, and apply ocean data to real-world problems such as search and rescue operations, oil spill response, and offshore renewable energy.
“This collaboration demonstrates how research institutions and industry can come together to find solutions to shared challenges,” said Laura Nazzaro, Research Analyst at Rutgers.
The visit concluded with participants outlining next steps for joint research initiatives and planning a follow-up meeting in Catalonia in 2026 to continue building momentum and expand the network of partners involved.
Rutgers remains committed to advancing global ocean observing science while preparing the next generation of researchers to protect and sustainably manage our marine resources.
