Dear Colleagues,
Are you interested in building your pinniped entanglement response knowledge and skills? If so, please consider joining us for our 5th SMM Pinniped Entanglement Response Workshop "
Advancing global pinniped entanglement response: A practical workshop on specialized tools, medical response, and tracking" https://www.smmconference.org/workshops/#1780359160898-56b6bc05-d550.
WHEN: Sunday, October 18th, 2026; 8:30-5:30.
WHERE: SMM2026, Centro de Convenciones Pedro Roselló González, San Juan, Puerto Rico. WHAT TO EXPECT: Marine debris and discarded fishing gear represent an escalating, lethal threat to global pinniped populations. Addressing this crisis requires more than isolated efforts—it demands a synchronized, global response. Aligned with the conference theme "One Ocean, One Future," the Pinniped Entanglement Group (PEG) https://pinnipedentanglementgroup.org invites responders, researchers, and managers to our
fifth international workshop.
This session bridges the gap between field expertise and scientific innovation. Whether you are a seasoned expert or a newcomer to the field, this workshop provides a collaborative platform to refine techniques, enhance communication, and advance prevention strategies.
- Global Perspectives and Expert Insights: A deep dive into pinniped entanglement response by international presenters and veterinary experts. We’ll cover field-tested methods from across the globe, including risk assessment, human and animal safety, veterinary-guided chemical/physical restraint, and behavioral diagnostics.
- Scenario-Based Problem Solving: Interactive case studies to master response ethics and step-by-step field protocols.
- Hands-on Skills: Practical training with cutting tools and net handling; medical assessment protocols
- Post-Release Innovation: Gain proficiency in sampling, tagging, and tracking technologies (satellite, radio, and acoustic) to monitor long-term health and survival.
Why Join Us?
Join our international community to share field-tested techniques, discuss complex response challenges, and strengthen the global PEG network. By synchronizing our efforts, we can turn international collaboration into measurable success for pinniped conservation.
SUPPORT: For the first time ever, PEG can provide support to cover four workshop registration fees ($120.00 each).
Criteria to be selection for workshop registration:
- First come, first served – must request by July 15, 2026
- PRIORITY goes to PEG members actively involved in pinniped entanglement response from low-income regions (based on SMM criteria using the most recent World Bank classification)
- Students currently studying marine mammal pollution, marine debris, or a relevant field who: 1) request financial aid and 2) include a justification with their request to workshop organizers
- Participants agree to be included in an upcoming website blog
Sign up soon – the workshop is limited to 25 participants.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Thank you,
Kim Raum-Suryan and Greg Frankfurter