New England’s Great White Sharks and Growing Seal Population, by Jon Dodd

Welcome to our 2026 Connecticut River Lecture Series - Biodiversity in the Connecticut River Watershed. RSVP and attend our third lecture, by Jon Dodd, entitled: New England’s Great White Sharks and Growing Seal Population, followed by a Q&A session.

Jon Dodd, Executive Director, Atlantic Shark Institute

New England’s Great White Sharks and Growing Seal Population

The Great White Shark is an iconic species that is known throughout the world. This
discussion will focus on the white shark research that the Atlantic Shark Institute has
been conducting in Rhode Island and surrounding waters, as well as the growing
population of seals that has caught the attention of the ASI team and research
partners. We will also discuss the presence of sharks in our ecosystem, why they are
important, the tagging methodology used in this research, and more.  
Jon Dodd is the executive director of the Atlantic Shark Institute. He has also worked as
a staff volunteer for the NMFS Apex Predator Investigation, holds an Advanced Open
Water Dive Certification and is a Fellow of the prestigious Explorers Club, NY, NY.

The lecture is free, but seating is limited. We ask that you respond (acceptances only) by calling our office: (860) 598-4218 or registering online: 
https://ctaudubon.org/events/rtp-estuary-center/ct-river-lecture-series-jon-dodd/
Thursday, April 2, 5-6pm
Old Lyme Town Hall
52 Lyme Street
Old Lyme, CT 06371

Find out about our other upcoming, fantastic lectures in the 2026 Lecture Series: Biodiversity in the Connecticut River Watershed here.

Whether you are a nature enthusiast, educator, or curious community member, this series offers a deeper understanding of the Connecticut River as a dynamic, living system: one that connects us all. 
This program brings together scientists, conservationists, and storytellers to explore the remarkable species shaped by—and shaping—New England’s largest river system.
From the delicate, continent-spanning migration of monarch butterflies to the quiet resurgence of black bears in forested corridors; from tautog navigating rocky coastal habitats to bald eagles reclaiming river skies; and from river outflow to the surprising presence of sharks in connected waters, these experts reveal how land, water, and wildlife are inseparably linked. Together, the lectures illuminate ecological connections, conservation challenges, and hopeful success stories across the watershed.
Together, the lectures illuminate ecological connections, conservation challenges, and hopeful success stories across the watershed. 
The Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center, is located in the Connecticut River Estuary, an area designated as one of the world's "Last Great Places." 
The mission of the Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center is the conservation and stewardship of the coal and estuarine environment of southeastern Connecticut, with a particular focus on the Connecticut River Estuary and its watershed. 
Our center is dedicated to the conservation and preservation of the estuary ecosystem and for children, teens and adults, facilitating scientific research and promoting outreach and advocacy to preserve, protect and conserve its beauty for generations. 
We invite you to learn more about us. Stroll around our property. Visit our website at ctaudubon.org/rtpec and explore the many programs and activities we offer. Register for a program.