Categorized | Education, Volunteering

ReefWatchers training, presentation Feb. 28

MEDIA RELEASE

ReefWatchers is hosting a morning of information, training and a presentation on reef ecosystems Saturday, Feb. 28.

The morning will include new information on Hawaii’s reef ecosystems, presentation by Linda Preskitt, ReefWatcher information exchange, report on ReefWatchers’ 2008 coral spawning project and preparation for 2009 spawning, and an orientation for newcomers.

ReefWatchers are people of any age who enjoy being near or in the ocean and are willing to spend one day per month (or as often as you want), weather permitting, to observe and document marine life.  Some folks count fish, some folks observe life in a tidepool.   

ReefWatchers are trained to observe certain species of fish and other ocean inhabitants. The goal and strength of this program is to observe and record change over time. 

Some ReefWatchers have monitored their area for five years or more.  ReefWatchers provide the best possible ‘watching’ service for state resource managers. ReefWatchers have provided the state Division of Aquatic Resources with early warnings of unusual events on the reef, and are recognized as valuable contributors to science.

ReefWatcher training consists of a one day lecture/activity training, then a one day field identification training.  ReefWatcher resource materials are provided.  Thereafter, over the years, updates by marine biologists and other resource management experts are hosted by U.H. Sea Grant College Program.

Training for new ReefWatchers and updates for current members is 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Feb. 28 at the Natural Energy Laboratory Conference Room (drive to end of the asphalt road at Natural Energy Lab, follow the yellow signs).  

— Find out more:

University of Hawaii Sea Grant Extension Service: 329-2861, peck@hawaii.edu, www.soest.hawaii.edu/seagrant/education/reefteach.html

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