With its noninvasive and easy collection, environmental DNA (eDNA)—the genetic material that organisms shed into their environment—could revolutionize how we detect, protect, and manage aquatic life. Using just water samples, eDNA can reveal what species were recently present in a location—useful information when monitoring water quality, identifying endangered or invasive species in a particular area, and studying the ocean’s biodiversity and ecosystem. This panel will cover state of the art eDNA science and the infrastructure needed to realize the full potential of eDNA as a tool.