Capitol Hill Ocean Week Marks 25th Anniversary with Focus on Maritime Heritage and Ocean Policy

The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation has announced the official program for Capitol Hill Ocean Week (CHOW) 2026, the nation's premier ocean and Great Lakes policy forum, marking a significant milestone as the event celebrates its 25th anniversary alongside the nation's broader 250-year celebration. The 2026 program is designed to honor and recognize leaders making substantive contributions to maritime heritage, marine conservation, and ocean exploration—reflecting the growing importance of ocean stewardship in contemporary policy discussions. Capitol Hill Ocean Week has established itself as a critical convening point where marine scientists, policymakers, industry stakeholders, and conservation advocates gather to shape the future of ocean governance and marine resource management. The event brings together diverse perspectives on critical maritime issues affecting both coastal communities and the broader national economy. The 25th anniversary edition underscores the evolving nature of ocean policy in the United States, recognizing both historical maritime achievements and emerging conservation challenges. With the Great Lakes representing a significant freshwater marine ecosystem, the expanded focus on both ocean and Great Lakes issues reflects a comprehensive approach to aquatic resource stewardship. This year's program emphasis on maritime heritage during the nation's 250-year commemoration highlights the historical significance of the nation's maritime traditions while positioning current conservation and exploration efforts within that broader historical context. Industry participants and policymakers are expected to examine contemporary challenges including marine sanctuary management, ocean sustainability, maritime exploration initiatives, and governance frameworks that balance economic and environmental interests across America's waters.