The Great Lakes region stands as a crucial ecosystem, supporting diverse species, habitats, and communities integral to both environmental health and human livelihoods. Despite its significance, this area has historically lacked robust scientific data, leaving sensitive ecosystems and underrepresented communities vulnerable to various threats such as pollution and invasive species. OR&R supports the protection and restoration of natural resources of the Great Lakes from oil, chemical, marine debris, and disasters. OR&R has supported research and development on oil spills in the Great Lakes, working with our close partner and collaborator, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Great Lakes Oil Spill Center of Expertise (GLCOE).