Interactive online training session set for Aug. 7
The Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST) will deliver a virtual training session for Alaskans so that they “can help make a difference for the environment.”
Participants will be asked to collect data on beach-cast carcasses of marine birds on a monthly basis to establish a baseline pattern of beached bird mortality on North Pacific beaches. Currently, nearly 1000 participants survey beaches in Washington, Oregon, California, and Alaska.
The three-hour Zoom workshop will help trainees become acquainted with COASST survey protocols, and have a chance to learn more about the seabirds that live in their area. The COASST training provides participants with the tools to monitor for potential changes in the marine environment and promote stewardship of local marine resources.
COASST is a citizen science project of the University of Washington in partnership with state, tribal, and federal agencies, environmental organizations, and community groups.
COASST believes citizens of coastal communities are essential scientific partners in monitoring marine ecosystem health. By collaborating with citizens, natural resource management agencies and environmental organizations, COASST works to translate long-term monitoring into effective marine conservation solutions.
Interested bird counters will need a computer or mobile device with a strong internet connection to stream the Zoom Webinar.
Participants need NO prior experience with scientific data collection — just a commitment to survey a specific beach at least once a month.
Reserve your training spot by registering in advance at this link:
https://washington.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_E4ykVxwETJOj-8vxe-dU4A
Learn more by calling COASST at 206-221-6893, emailing coasst@uw.edu, or visiting our website at coasst.org.
