The Center for Urban Waters (CUW) at UW Tacoma is a highly collaborative applied-science program dedicated to finding globally applicable solutions to urban water-quality problems in the Pacific Northwest. Founded in 2010, CUW has become an important part of the conversation about the restoration, protection and future of Puget Sound. With locally relevant research and a wide network of partners, internships and employment opportunities, CUW offers students unique learning opportunities in dealing with complex environmental issues. The center provides resources for legislators, including the Encyclopedia of Puget Sound, which offers scientific research on a range of topics such as marine life, toxics pollution and invasive species.