Hack for the Sea 2018

Take on challenges in marine science, research, and industry at The 3rd Annual Hack for the Sea.

A "hackathon" is an attempt to ideate and make progress toward solutions to shared challenges. Hack for the Sea is slightly different than many other hackathons in that:

1. It focuses on marine science exclusively
2. All submissions must be released as open source
3. It is meant to be a healthy, inclusive, and outcome-driven event.

Challenge Statements

This year's challenges come from our beneficiary organizations: the Consortium of Universities for the Advancement of Hydrologic Science, Inc. (CUAHSI), the Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute (GMGI), The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, Ocean Alliance, and the MassBays National Estuary Program.

1. How does a changing coastal watershed impact coastal waters?

2. Where and when will Cod spawning occur?

3. Can a whale be identified based on their blowholes?

4. Can a mooring be designed that is not only eelgrass-friendly, but also user-friendly?

More details about challenges and prize structure to follow.

Special thanks to our technology purveyors:

• Balsamiq
  
• Get.tech
• Microshare

FAQs

What does my ticket get me?

• Participation in the weekend as a Hacker
• A free month's access to our "Marine Hacker Sandbox"
• Food during the event.
• Immediate access to the Hack for the Sea Slack channel
• Access to any pre-hackathon Q&A Google Hangout sessions (schedule TBD)
• A Snotbot Sticker
• A Hack for the Sea waterproof dry bag.
  
• A personal email from the organizer to confirm your registration to open lines of communication early.

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

This is a family-friendly, kid-friendly event, and there are no age restrictions. 

"Hackathon?" What is that? I'm not technical, so I'm not going to be of much use.

You should still come. Your skill sets will be useful to any team, provided you share a love of and passion for the ocean. And no, it's not that meaning of "hack." We're just tinkerers.

What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?

The American Legion is walking distance from the Gloucester Commuter Rail station, and there is public parking available.

What can I bring into the event?

This year, we are trying something new - bring pre-existing work in. Whatever makes it easiest for you to achieve the objectives of the challenges to the benefit of our organizations... go for it.

But doesn't that give some teams an unfair advantage?

This year we're also doing judging differently - you will be judged holistically based on your efforts and conduct during the weekend. More details to follow.

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Yes. Reach out at mark@mrh.io