Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust will host an online program on the presence of Atlantic White Sharks in the Gulf of Maine from 4 to 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 21. 

As recent sightings and “shark tracker” apps indicate, Atlantic White Sharks are an established summertime presence on the coast of Maine. This apex predator seems to inspire equal parts of fear and fascination – and raises questions. Many people wonder about the likelihood of encountering a shark and whether it is safe to be on the water. 

Guest speaker Kristen Smith, Community Engagement Manager with the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy (AWSC), will present the latest white shark research and what it means for coastal communities. Smith will share videos and photographs from the research season, take questions from participants, and provide information about how people can get involved in shark and ocean conservation. 

This program is free of charge, thanks to member support. Registration is required at coastalrivers.org/events.  

Kristen Smith is the community engagement manager for the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy (AWSC), a nonprofit organization supporting scientific research, educating the community, and improving public safety with respect to white sharks. Kristen attended Coastal Carolina University, where she assisted with the university’s shark research program and received a degree in marine science. She has been with the AWSC since 2016, involved in education, outreach, and research. Kristen has been featured on the “Today Show,” “Channel 7 News Boston,” and “Good Morning America” highlighting the AWSC’s white shark ecotourism program and public safety programs.