This program provides an overview of the work of the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy. The lecture covers a wide range of topics – from public perception of sharks to the role of sharks in our marine ecosystem. The ongoing white shark research taking place off the coast of Cape Cod is explained in detail, as well as how that research is connected to white shark conservation. The program wraps up with a discussion on how the presence of white sharks close to shore has specifically affected the Cape community. This program is recommended for adults; a Q&A period will follow the talk.

Since 2013, the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy has worked in collaboration with shark science experts, community partners, public and government officials, researchers, donors, friends, and followers to augment scientific research, improve and influence factors that affect public safety, and educate both the local and broader community to inspire a greater understanding of white sharks and conservation of the species.

Kristen Kibblehouse works as the Community Engagement Manager for the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy and has been with the organization since 2016. Kristen always had a fascination with sharks since she was a child and decided to make that fascination her career. Kristen attended Coastal Carolina University in Conway, South Carolina, where she studied marine science and aided in her university’s shark research program. Kristen moved to Massachusetts in 2016 for an internship with Dr. Greg Skomal. Since then, she has been involved in education, outreach, and research related to the white shark research being conducted off of Cape Cod.

For a link to the Zoom event to watch from home, please email elewis@rocklandmaine.gov by 4 p.m. on September 30 and identify the event you are interested in attending in the subject line. There will be limited seating available to view the program via projector at the library.