Welcome to NMEA 2009
One World Conserving One Ocean

Join us June 29-July 3, 2009 at Asilomar Conference Grounds in Pacific Grove, California.  Bring your comfortable shoes and some layers! It may be sunny and warm or cool and foggy.  This beautiful wooded site is only a block from the beach.  We’ll be walking outside everyday between exciting sessions, outstanding speakers and special evening events as well as during our field-based workshops on Thursday.

Pre-registration is required.
Registrations will not be accepted after June 19 or at the conference.

Why Come to Central California for NMEA 2009?

The South West Marine Educators Association (SWMEA) invites you to spend a week on the scenic Monterey Peninsula this summer.  Sleep, eat and learn at historic Asilomar where the first NMEA conference was held in 1976.  Walk the beach at sunrise or sunset.  Enjoy the beauty of the Monterey Bay while networking with friends and colleagues, old and new! 

Come join the sea otters and sea lions in the pristine Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.  Watch their antics along the rocky shore, at Fisherman’s Wharf or from a kayak.  Dive in a kelp forest or relax on a sailboat.  Experience spectacular scenery, hike in the forests, play on the beach, spend time on a world famous golf course or learn the history of the City of Monterey, the first capital of California.  You don’t want to miss this conference!

Attend one of the optional all-day professional development workshops on Monday or just arrive and check-in at Asilomar sometime that day.  Listen to our first featured speaker, come to the Exhibitors Reception in the afternoon, and then relax around the bonfire after dinner that night.

Concurrent sessions begin on Tuesday.  That evening, you can experience the weekly Farmer’s Market in downtown Monterey to sample the local produce and soak up the history of the area.  Choose a strolling dinner while looking and nibbling, dine in one of our famous restaurants or take a cruise on the bay!

We’ll have lots more interesting sessions again on Wednesday, and then you’ll have a chance to buy some one-of-a-kind souvenirs at our fabulous annual auction.  Our Thursday sessions will be held at a variety of outstanding field sites.  During our final evening together, you can connect with colleagues and be inspired to conserve our ocean as you explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium!

Check-out Friday morning or book an optional field trip and play at one of many local sites.  Maybe you’d like to observe marine mammals and learn the history of Pt. Lobos.  Try kayaking, scuba diving, sailing, biking or whale watching on the Monterey Bay or go wine-tasting in Carmel Valley.  Make a difference by participating in a habitat restoration.  You’ll have so many choices that you just  might want to extend your stay over the 4th of July weekend!