Abstract: principal investigator: kelly montenero primary contact: jessica riera, 4600 rickenbacker cswy, (305) 421-4183

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) awarded $155,210 to the University of Miami through the Cooperative Institute (Inter-Agency Funded Activities) program (CFDA 11.405) for the period October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2027. Under this Cooperative Agreement, the University of Miami's Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science (RSMAS), in collaboration with NOAA scientists, will develop and enhance the CETACEAN data platform—a comprehensive, user-friendly web-based system designed to compile environmental threats and animal data for cetacean population health analyses. The platform will consolidate whale and dolphin health datasets currently collected by multiple organizations using disparate formats and services, providing integrated data management capabilities for assessing marine mammal population health and associated stressors.

The project deliverables include development of ecosystem indicators for the interactive data platform and accompanying ecosystem infographic, implementation of spatial and temporal trend analysis tools to facilitate population comparisons, and evaluation of environmental and anthropogenic stressors affecting cetacean distribution patterns in the Gulf region. The funded work leverages CIMAS staff expertise working off-campus at NOAA facilities, with budget allocation covering salaries, associated employee expenses, and travel costs. Upon completion, the platform will serve trustees, restoration planners, responders, and other stakeholders requiring user-friendly access to comprehensive cetacean and ecosystem health assessment data.