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 <https://www.smmconference.org/>, 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 <https://blogs.worldbank.org/en/opendata/understanding-country-income--world-bank-group-income-classifica> ) - 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 Questions? Contact Kim at 2009PEG@gmail.com or kim.raum-suryan@noaa.gov