Skills Gained
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Marine ecological field sampling across a diverse array of coastal and offshore habitats
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Statistical analysis, GIS mapping and data visualization
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Marine spatial planning and stakeholder engagement
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Science communication and designing an environmental movement
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Public speaking and leadership development
Oceans are the new frontier of conservation. Scientists estimate that oceans contain more than one million species and report that less than one-quarter of these have been identified. Marine biodiversity has the potential to transform medicine, industry, environmental remediation, and energy production; and productive coastal ecosystems provide food resources for 100’s of millions of people worldwide. As articulated in the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (#14), human health is inextricably tied to effective management of marine resources. In recognition, the UN Convention on Biological Diversity’s Strategic Plan (2011-2020) called for 10% of ocean area to be protected by 2020 but humanity has fallen short of this goal. There is much work yet to be done and we need your help.
In spring 2021 Marine Biodiversity and Conservation students will focus their attention on the Southeast and Northeast U.S. Continental Shelf Large Marine Ecosystems (LMEs) along the US east coast; ocean ecosystems and resources shared with our international neighbors the Bahamas and Canada, respectively. These ecosystems include 100s of important fisheries species including snapper, grouper, and spiny lobster to the south and cod, scallop, and American lobster to the north that support coastal economies and food supplies worldwide. However, both LMEs are threatened by coastal pollution, habitat destruction, unsustainable fishing practices and climate change.
Regional research highlights will include the famed Gulf Stream current and enigmatic Sargassum algae to the south, the historic fishing areas of Chesapeake Bay and Georges Bank to the north, and migrating, endangered Right whales and offshore energy exploration and development that compete for space and protection in both regions.
Original research conducted by students during this project-based applied science and policy semester at sea program directly contributes to ongoing efforts to properly manage multiple stakeholder needs of these important marine resources.
On Shore I - Preparation in Woods Hole
Students will build a conceptual framework in marine ecology, governance and conservation while honing practical skills. Place-based conservation planning begins understanding how to identify and value important "natural capital" and "ecosystem services" that link humans to the ocean environment. Training in morphological, mapping and statistical techniques for measuring biodiversity as well as practical seamanship will prepare students for the research cruise.
At Sea in the Large Marine Ecosystems
The Florida Keys to Woods Hole, MA research cruise allows for first-hand exploration of this important coastal and near-coastal environment and western Sargasso Sea. In addition to measuring biodiversity for their research projects, students will collect archive samples for the global marine biodiversity assessment effort.
On Shore II - Analysis & Symposium in Woods Hole
Students will complete scientific data analysis and synthesis of conservation approaches. The program concludes with a capstone experience. Students will share their scientific research and conservation strategies for the SE and NE Large Marine Ecosystems with 8-10 experts in national and international marine conservation science and policy during a one-day professional Large Marine Ecosystem Symposium convened on the SEA campus.
Beyond building content knowledge and practical skills in conservation science and management, a critical goal of this program is to introduce undergraduates to the breadth of career paths available in ocean stewardship, from research science to natural resource economics and policy to public outreach. Students connect directly with a wide array of conservation professionals through guest lectures at SEA, visits to research facilities and institutions in Cape Cod, Florida Keys and through participation in the Symposium. These encounters provide opportunities for students to begin to form professional relationships with potential internship mentors, graduate school advisors, employers, and colleagues.