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Meet Monty Graham, New Director of SERC

This summer, oceanographer and jellyfish biologist William "Monty" Graham took the helm at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, with a mission to build bridges across space and time.
Director's Letter: The Smithsonian's Long Now

"'The long now' says that everything we are and do on a daily basis has two reaches: one to the past that leads to today, and one to the future, for everything that will feel the effects." (Photo: Hampton Bridwell)
Study: First Deep Look at River Otter Diets in Chesapeake

A SERC study looked at the diets of river otters in Chesapeake Bay for the first time—and discovered river otters are eating food riddled with parasites. And that may be good for the larger ecosystem. (Photo: Matthew Fryer)
Special Report: SERC's 60th Anniversary

Celebrate 60 years of science on Chesapeake Bay and with communities around the world, in our special 60th anniversary newsletter. (Photo: Roy Rich)
Request a Tour or Speaker

Want to hold a group tour at SERC or have a SERC speaker at your event? Our expert docents can provide tours, talks and table hosting.
School Field Trips: What To Know

Educators: Give your students an up-close encounter with Chesapeake science, with an on-site field trip! SERC offers timed entry and rotating stations. Details and schedule on our School Programs page.

What's New

Steve Canty Named New Director of the Smithsonian’s Marine Global Earth Observatory Network

Photo: Shelby Brown
Oceanographer Monty Graham Takes Helm as New Director of SERC

Photo: Kristen Goodhue
River Otters Unfazed by Feces and Parasites While Eating… And That’s Good for Ecosystems

Photo: Calli Wise

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Ecosystems on the Edge

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Shorelines Blog

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Upcoming Events

Visiting Hours

New hours: SERC is open for hiking and paddling Monday through Sunday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.!

Our Woodlawn History Center is located just past the security kiosk and is open Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and some Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Find out which Sundays are open.

Plan your visit!

60 Years of Discovery

For six decades, SERC scientists have taken on environmental issues on the Chesapeake Bay and around the world and, uncovered new ways to protect the planet. Learn more about SERC’s history and discoveries.