In Memoriam: Gerry Eastman Studds

Gerry Eastman Studds, 69, passed away October 14th. Mr. Studds represented Massachusetts for 12 terms in the US Congress, and of particular note to all who care about the marine environment, played an active role in developing marine-related legislation. He supported the Marine Mammal Protection Act, sponsored the Magnuson Act of 1973, limited oil drilling on Georges Bank, helped to create the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area, found financing for the Coast Guard and marine science, and secured the regulatory infrastructure to enforce the law. Mr. Studds chaired the Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries from 1990-1994, and served as chairman of the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Navigation as well as chairman of the House Subcommittee on Fisheries, Oceans and Wildlife. His marine and fisheries interests continued after his retirement. As just one example, he served as a director and later advisor to the Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies.

Many of us enjoy the incredible whale watching and impressive array of marine life on Stellwagen Bank, now protected for future generations and superbly displayed on the Sanctuary's web site. The next time you're out there take a quiet moment in gratitude for one of the people most responsible for the sanctuary whales, humans and so much else now enjoy. Thank you, Mr. Studds! - William Rossiter