Capitol Hill Ocean Week

About This Event

Capitol Hill Ocean Week (CHOW) is the nation’s premier ocean and Great Lakes policy conference, hosted by the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation. Policymakers, scientists, entrepreneurs, conservationists, educators, and youth leaders come together to discuss and debate the most significant issues impacting our ocean and Great Lakes, to generate innovative solutions to these challenges and to build networks.

CHOW celebrates 25 years as the Nation celebrates its 250th anniversary. Join us in this moment to launch bold breakthroughs, ignite discovery and secure waters for all.

This year’s theme is “Voyages and Breakthroughs”. America’s history is maritime history. Our nation’s story is shaped by the ocean and the Great Lakes – rooted in exploration, innovation, and our evolving commitment to environmental stewardship.

Today, coastal communities are the anchors of America, serving as engines of opportunity and preserving our shared waters. As we sail into the future, the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation honors the earliest stewards of our waters and charts the course for the next generation of wavemakers.

By showcasing the cutting-edge advancements and emerging leaders that are shaping the future of ocean stewardship, CHOW 2026 spotlights transformative change across science, culture and heritage, resiliency, and innovation.