About the Sponsors
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Sea Grant
Founded in 1966 by Congress, the National Sea Grant College Program is a 
network of 32 programs working to promote the conservation and sustainable development of our marine resources through research, education, and outreach. Their rigorous research program, dedicated outreach programs and integrated educational projects that are aimed at providing real-world solutions to coastal questions and at helping to create the coastal stewards of tomorrow.
Website: http://www.seagrant.mit.edu/index.php
Julie Simpson/Coastal Ecologist
Her primary interests are in the effects of climate change on salt marshes and other coastal habitats, the ecology and physiology of fresh- and saltwater plants and algae, water quality regulation, and the transport and fate of terrestrially-derived pollutants to the coastal ocean.
Email: juliesimpsonmit@gmail.com
Judith Pederson/Marine Ecologist
In addition to her research over the past 20 years, Dr. Pederson has further contributed to water-quality monitoring, clean-up efforts in Boston Harbor and other areas of Massachusetts.
Email: jdpederso@mit.edu
City of Chelsea, Massachusetts
Chelsea is an inner urban suburb of Boston, the capital city of 
Massachusetts, with a diverse population of 35,080. Its location bordering Boston, gives it ideal access by water, rail, land and air. The local economy centers on this access. A charter change in 1995 designed an efficient council-manager form of government, which has focused on improving the quality of service the city provides to its residents and businesses. Increased emphasis on economic development and capital improvement has lead to a remarkable influx of new business and home buyers interested in taking advantage of superior services and unparalleled access.
Website: http://www.ci.chelsea.ma.us/Public_Documents/index
John DePriest/Director of Planning and Development
The Planning and Development Department relates to the physical, economic, social, and environmental needs of the City.
Email: 
JDePriest@chelseama.gov
Andrew DeSantis/Assistant Director of the Department of Public Works
The Department of Public Works (DPW) provides professional quality maintenance, repair and construction services for the city.
Email: ADeSantis@chelseama.gov
Alexander Train/ Planner & Project Manager
Email: ATrain@chelseama.gov
Toni Marie Pignatelli/Planner & Land Use Administrator
Email: TPignatelli@chelseama.gov