A new publication - "Monitoring MPAs by SCUBA in waters off Central California: 2007/8 results of PISCO baseline monitoring surveys" is NOW available.

The booklet describes the patterns in state marine reserves based on two years of baseline data collected by PISCO at 8 sites. The project represents the most extensive ecological surveys to date of central coast kelp forests, and the results will provide a basis for long-term evaluations of MPA and reference sites.

This publication was made possible through funding and in-kind contributions from Partnership for Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans (PISCO), Monterey Bay Sanctuary Foundation, California Grant Sea, and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Lead authors are Dr Mark Carr, Hugo Selbie, Dan Malone with PISCO, and Dr. Steve Lonhart with MBNMS.

Hard copies are available via an email request and an electronic version can be downloaded from the SIMoN website .

We will also be posting this publication to the MBSF website. As always check the website for updates, as new products are being uploaded for your use.

Thank you - The MBSF Team

The 2010 Field School in Maritime Archaeology is a joint ongoing research expedition conducted in Bermuda by faculty and students of Saint Mary’s College of California (SMC) and the University of Rhode Island. Students from other academic and maritime related institutions are invited to apply. The field school is a research-based learning experience that exposes students to the archaeological investigation and documentation of shipwrecks from the 17th through 20th centuries, and includes a variety of activities including archival research, artifact conservation, archaeological survey, and underwater excavation and documentation.

The field school will be conducted in the three-week period from July 19-August 8, 2010. Advanced scuba training, leading to the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS) Scientific Diver certification, and classroom work related to maritime history and maritime archaeological field methods will comprise week one of the field school. Underwater research and documentation of historic shipwrecks will be conducted in Bermuda during the remaining weeks.

Students may receive a one-course upper division anthropology credit. The field school generally meets the fieldwork requirement for anthropology majors or minors with an archaeology focus. Professor James M. Allan of the SMC Anthropology Department is the program director. Professor Allan has extensive experience in underwater archaeological field methods, archival research, and scientific diving.

Course enrollment associated with Saint Mary’s College will be limited to six students. There are no academic prerequisites, but all participants must meet scuba and AAUS scientific-diver-in-training requirements prior to beginning the field school and must have their own diving equipment (no tanks required). For local individuals, the SMC Anthropology Department will offer a scuba training class that incorporates AAUS requirements during the spring semester.
The Course is taught on campus July 19-23 and in Bermuda, July 25-August 9. FEE: $4,200 (not including airfare)

Contact: Email for more detailed information.

The primary responsibility of the NCB Coordinator will be to ensure the completion of baseline subtidal monitoring of 17 sites associated with the recently sited marine protected areas along the north central coast . Collaborators on the project will include UC Santa Cruz and the Department of Fish and Game. The NCB Coordinator will work closely with the RCCA Director and Regional Manager to ensure work is fully integrated into the statewide monitoring network and to help maximize trained volunteer involvement in the data collection.

This is a half-time position (80 hrs/month) based out of a home office which includes Divers Alert Network accident and workman's compensation insurance. A stipend will also be provided to support the purchase of dive gear. The position is currently funded for two years at $20/hour. Work on weekends and some regional travel will be required. Starting date will be approximately March 15, 2010.

Qualifications:

American Academy of Underwater Sciences certification (current certification preferred)

Minimum of 75 dives with at least 25 in cold water (< 65° F)

BS degree in biology or related field with good command of common California nearshore fishes, invertebrates, and algae.

Experience conducting, organizing, and overseeing field work on scuba in California (north of the Golden Gate Bridge experience preferred)

Experience with small boat handling

Experience conducting underwater visual census surveys (PISCO/CRANE or RCCA methodology preferred)

Experience with in-water and classroom instruction of divers

The candidate must be organized and capable of working independently. Successful candidates must have a strong work ethic coupled with a high level of self-motivation and enthusiasm. Applicants will need to have their own computer with reliable internet access. Special consideration will be given to applicants based in Sonoma or Mendocino counties.
Job duties include assisting in the training of volunteer divers, organizing and planning logistics for field excursions, regular correspondence with volunteers and research partners, data entry and basic summary analyses, building support from the diving community with dive shop visits and club talks, presentations at MLPA meetings, and writing articles for monthly newsletters
Applicants should submit a CV and cover letter via email by March 5, 2010 to Cyndi Dawson.

FULL TIME, ELIGIBLE FOR BENEFITS

The Mammalogist is responsible for the care of all animals in collection and for assisting the Curator/Assistant Curator in the training of volunteers and intern mammalogists. Under the direction of the Curator/Asst. Curator, the individual coordinates the care and treatment of the Aquarium’s animal collection with the veterinarinan, and is responsible for the training and husbandry of animal collections. The individual is expected to act as a positive role model to other staff members and must carry an in-depth expertise of natural history, husbandry, and training of animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Provides the highest possible quality of care to the animals in his/her care

Prepares food and feeds the animals; plans diets, determines appropriate base levels and makes adjustments as needed

Observes and recognizes medical conditions that may require treatment; promptly reports those conditions to the Curator or Asst. Curator; coordinates care and treatment with the veterinarian

Oversees the training of the animal collection by developing training stategies and long term training plans; instructs and communicates to other staff those techniques to ensure consistency

Assists the Asst. Curator in coordinating activities and communicating changes in policy with other staff working with the animal collection

Responsible for presentation quality by performing in and evaluating public presentations on a daily basis

Ensures the proper care of life support and other equipment by adhering to a regular preventive maintenance schedule and by keeping all items clean and in good working order

Promptly reports all non-functional life support equipment to the Curator, Asst. Curator or Facilities Supervisor for immediate repairs

Assists with system design and fabrication of holding facilities

Maintains a clean and organized area to facilitate a presentable and safe environment for work and behind-the-scenes tours

May occasionally provide interviews to the media under the direction of Public Relations

Communicates regularly with other departments, professional colleagues, other institutions and outside contractors

Maintains all records pertaining to the Aquarium’s collection of marine mammals

Under the direction of the Curator/Asst. Curator, oversees the selection, training, and work of volunteers and interns assigned to work with animal collection

Performs routinely in public presentations and animal behavioral demonstrations

Adheres to all established safety protocols (fire, OSHA, diving, etc.) and reports unsafe conditions to the area Curator, Asst. Curator, or Safety Officer to be remedied

Works closely with Life Support staff to maintain proper water and air quality (temperature, pH, chlorine, ORP levels, etc.) to ensure the health of the animals and high water clarity

Interprets gallery of exhibits in public areas Interacting with and educating guests in a personal manner

Performs diving operations for cleaning, collecting, and research; diving may require advanced training with special equipment, such as dry suits or full face regulators

Serves as the Aquarium liaison to the USDA-APHIS, in the absence of the Curator and Asst. Curator

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

Maintains a high level of knowledge and expertise of the operation and theory of all life support systems

Presents workshops, seminars, lectures, member programs, behind-the-scenes tours and other interactions with guests and staff

Higher understanding of animal care practices, such as training , quarantine, exhibit maintenance and animal handling

Proficient in public speaking

Increased proficiency in general animal husbandry with collection of animals

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelors degree in Biology or related field, or equivalent experience

Minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience as an animal keeper/trainer (paid) in a zoological facility

Excellent written and oral communication skills

Possession of a valid driver’s license

SCUBA certification from a nationally recognized agency

Must possess demonstrated proficiency in the training, capture, handling, transfer, and transportation of marine mammals in exhibits and holding facilities

Must possess demonstrated knowledge of necessary safety measures (relating to animals and exhibits) required when working in and around sea otters, pinnipeds, and other animals

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.

Ability to swim

Full functional range of motion in all major body joints

Ability to SCUBA dive aquarium habitats or open ocean

Ability to stand for long periods of time

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Hot and cold environments

Outdoor and indoor environments in varying weather conditions

Wet and dirty surfaces and walkways

Elevated platforms

Small vessels

Aquarium habitats and open ocean environments

Uneven surfaces

INTERESTED AND QUALIFIED?

If you meet the requirements of this position, please apply online by clicking on APPLY NOW at the end of the position description. You will be directed to our web application process, the successful completion of which is required by all applicants.

The Aquarium of the Pacific is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Pennington Marine Science Center

Camp Emerald Bay, Santa Catalina Island, CA

Title: Aquarist Intern

Company/Organization: Camp Emerald Bay, Western Los Angeles County Council, Boy Scouts of America

Location: Camp Emerald Bay, Santa Catalina Island, CA. 33° 28' 08" N, 118° 31' 52" W

Duration: May 30 – September 1, 2010

Pay Rate: Room and board provided for the duration of the internship in camp style housing and dining facilities as well as a small weekly stipend.

Description: The Camp Emerald Bay - Pennington Marine Science Center Aquarist Internship is designed to provide instruction and opportunities to learn aquatic animal husbandry skills. These skills can be marketed to a number of organizations and businesses such as public aquariums, research groups, aquaculture production facilities, aquarium service businesses, and the ornamental fish trade including retail and wholesale production levels.

The job of aquatic animal keepers, also known as aquarists, is a physically active job. Besides the potential for SCUBA diving, other job duties include lifting boxes of frozen fish (50 lbs), climbing up and down stairs or ladders, bending over, carrying buckets of water, restraining and netting animals. Days are frequently spent standing on your feet and usually consist of feeding, monitoring, and otherwise caring for aquatic animals. Aquarist Interns may clean, disinfect, monitor water quality, and design or build exhibits. Additionally, aquarists may keep records of feedings, treatments, and animals received or discharged.

Aquarists have an extremely varied set of responsibilities, and therefore need an equally diverse range of knowledge and skills to do their jobs. The personal characteristics aquarists identified as being important for this profession also reflect this variety: self motivation, creativity, a willingness and ability to learn, resourcefulness, intuition, thoroughness, and the ability to work with others are just some of the key qualities that aquarists believe are important in order to do their jobs well.

As a summer staff member of Camp Emerald Bay and the Pennington Marine Science Center, you will be involved in many different aspects of camp and aquarium operations including: animal care, record keeping, facility maintenance, merit badge instruction and camp staff required work activities. Through your participation, you will gain many specific skills, experience working with captive animals in an educational setting, and something new to put on your resume. If you choose to get the most out of working here you will have the knowledge of a basic aquarist; however, you will also gain a strong background in animal behavior, animal health and husbandry, public interaction, and be exposed to much more. Like most things in life, how much you get out of this experience will depend on how much you put in.

Emerald Bay is located on the West End of Catalina Island. A far cry from the bustling tourist destination of Avalon, the West End offers camp staff unparalleled opportunities for diving, hiking, trail running, swimming, snorkeling, mountain biking, kayaking, camping, and many more activities that are just a plus of working on this end of the island. The nearest town is Two Harbors, with about 20 year-round residents, and is a 30-minute car ride on dirt roads. Because of our isolated location applicants must consider this since it’s very difficult to “run into town” for anything and while there is one general store, the emphasis must be placed on “general”. Creature comforts are hard to come by, but the island’s spectacular beauty and atmosphere more than make up for any lack of modern conveniences.

During the summer, the Aquarist Interns assist the Marine Science Director in aquarium maintenance and operations, teaching aquarium related BSA classes, and all aspects of maintaining a healthy, diverse aquarium. Additionally, Aquarist Interns will be asked to perform camp staff tasks as needed; these duties are required of all staff, camp wide, no matter which area they work. Aquarist Interns must have a strong scuba background since they will be assisting on the remaining specimen collection dives as well as experience operating small boats in the ocean under varied conditions.

Two Aquarist Interns will be competitively chosen on the basis of knowledge, abilities, experience, attitude, reliability, punctuality and recommendations. We recommend contacting your registrar’s office in order to earn college credit for this internship. Preference will be given to those who can stay for the duration of the internship and that meet the qualifications above. Aquarist Interns will work on a research project of their choice and report the results by the end of the internship.

Drug Testing: PMSC staff must understand that if they are involved in a workplace accident or it is determined by their supervisor or the camp director that there is a reasonable suspicion that they are under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, the intern may be subject to saliva drug testing.

If interested, please contact the Marine Science Director by email or phone for an application.

Applications are due by Friday, March 12, 2010.

Requirements: A successful applicant will possess the following:

-Undergraduate, graduate student or recent graduate in/with a related degree.

-SCUBA certification. The more experience the better. Must own mask, fins, and booties. All other gear is provided.

-Strong writing skills and organization.

-Mechanical aptitude / willingness to work with your hands.

-Strong background in record keeping with Microsoft Excel.

-Interest in marine aquaria, marine conservation, and the teaching of marine science.

-Ability to work with a variety of people in close quarters for long hours as well as independently.

-A sense of adventure.

Contact: Kevin Erickson

Marine Science Director

Pennington Marine Science Center

1-310-510-1795 ext 36

The Reef Check Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit marine environmental organization, is seeking a marine biologist to help manage our California Program. The Program's goals are to:

1. Train citizen scientists to use our standard reef monitoring protocol to collect quality data using key indicators of rocky reef ecosystem status;


2. Maintain and expand the representative network of 70 reef sites monitored annually;
   
3. Provide our monitoring results to the public and marine managers;


4. Facilitate the use of RC data by scientists and resource managers to improve marine management;


5. Build an informed constituency of divers and other stakeholders supportive of community-based scientific monitoring and marine conservation in California and internationally.

The Project Scientist will be responsible for managing daily operations including ensuring the quality and development of the training program for California volunteer divers, supervising program staff, data management and dissemination, producing peer-reviewed scientific publications, building and maintaining institutional partnerships, and grant writing/fundraising. The Scientist will coordinate with state agencies, marine managers and scientists throughout the state. This job requires extensive scuba diving work, regular work on weekends during the training and dive season, and statewide travel. Potential for career advancement as the RCCA program evolves. Position location in California is flexible.

REQUIRED SKILLS:

• MS or PhD in marine biology and experience in monitoring design


• Experience with Project Management, supervising staff and leading by example


• Comprehensive knowledge of California kelp forest and rocky reef ecosystems and their ecology, including at least 2 years of experience in a field project in these systems


• NAUI or PADI Scuba Instructor (or equivalent) with 3 years experience diving in CA


• American Academy of Underwater Sciences (current certification preferred)


• Familiarity with marine management and the MLMA and MLPA processes.


• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office suite, Microsoft Access and at least one statistical analysis packages (e.g. SPSS, Systat)


• Experience using Microsoft Access and working with relational databases


• Strong work ethic, highly self-motivated and able to work with minimal supervision


• Proven ability to communicate effectively and work in a team environment

Salary/Benefits:
Salary commensurate with experience please include recent salary history in application and desired range. Medical/Dental Plan and 401(k) with company match.

Please submit resume and cover letter via email NO LATER than January 31, 2010 to: rcinfo @ reefcheck.org Subject: RC Cal Project Scientist. Start date of March 15, 2010.

See PDF here for more information.

*Job Description:* We are looking for an enthusiastic individual to assist in scientific research in the nearshore oceanographic environment for the Partnership for Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans (PISCO). The primary responsibilities are to assist in conducting oceanographic research along the Oregon coast. At sea work includes: participating in research cruises on the R/V /Elakha/ and R/V /Kalipi/; deployment, maintenance, and retrieval of oceanographic instruments; and occasional SCUBA to observe and recover moorings. Shore and lab work includes: constructing moorings and other sampling devices; assisting with downloading and maintaining oceanographic data and data logs; mussel growth measurements; assisting with instrument calibrations; assisting with water sampling collection and processing; and assisting professors, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students in their research as needed. This position requires working weekends and early mornings, and very long hours in the field. It may also require staying at housing on the coast for short periods.

*Required Qualifications: *

* SCUBA diving certification and significant diving experience
* Boating experience and resistance to motion sickness
* Ability to work collaboratively as part of an ecological research
team
* Interest in physical and biological oceanography

*Desirable Qualifications:*

* Strong attention to detail
* First Aid and CPR certification
* AAUS scientific diving certification
* Cold water/ dry suit diving experience
* Physically fit, hardworking and willing to work required hours
* Marine biology and/or oceanography coursework and/or fieldwork
* Handy with tools and electronics

*Program:* This project is part of the Partnership for the Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans (PISCO), a large-scale marine research program that focuses on understanding the nearshore ecosystems of the U.S. West Coast. An interdisciplinary collaboration of scientists from four universities, PISCO integrates long-term monitoring of ecological and oceanographic processes at dozens of coastal sites with experimental work in the lab and field. We explore how individual organisms, populations, and ecological communities vary over space and time.

*Salary:* $11/hr.
*Dates: *Approximately* *mid-March 2010 through September, 2010.
*Location:* Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon
*Housing: *We do not offer housing.
*Transportation: *Transportation to and from field sites and dock is provided.
If you would like to apply for this position, please email with Job ID# PO1 2010 as subject:

* a letter of intent explaining your interest in this work, your background, your dates available, and other pertinent information
* a CV or resume
* a copy of your college transcripts (unofficial copies accepted)
* a copy of your dive logs
* email and phone contact information for at least two references

To: Jerod Sapp; PISCO lab manager.
For more information, contact Jerod by email or check out our website.

Review of applications will begin February 15.

Most data are collected underwater using scuba and surface-supplied air. The intern will also assist with a three-month terrestrial vegetation monitoring program. Desirable candidates would have a minimum of 50 logged cold water dives, an AAUS-recognized scientific diving certification, some vessel experience, excellent references, the ability and willingness to make up to five dives per day in water temperatures ranging from 50-73°F. Dive depth is typically less than 65 ft, frequently in dense kelp forests and exposed offshore locations. Applicants should be willing and able to hike 10 miles in remote, rugged off-trail terrain. Remuneration includes a stipend of up to $640/month in addition to $650/month for housing, accident and medical insurance, and $2,000 to purchase scuba equipment. A $1,250- $4,725 Americorps Education award may also be available. Background on SCA is available at www.thesca.org. To apply, send a resume with cover letter to David Kushner; 805-658-5773). Diving history and biological experience should be described and references listed. Packages should be submitted immediately since candidate selection is to be made by the end of January.

The Shipboard Scientific Services Group is looking for a Dive Safety Officer. This is a regular full-time position and is eligible for benefits.

JOB SUMMARY:

The WHOI Dive Safety Officer (DSO) is responsible for insuring that all WHOI compressed gas dive operations are safely carried out and conform to the requirements of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS). The WHOI DSO will also maintain the dive facility and its equipment while also assessing new dive related technology. This position reports to the Manager of Shipboard Scientific Services Group.

Oversee all compressed gas diving done by institution employees at any location or by non-WHOI employees on WHOI property or research vessels. Manage and maintain the institution's dive locker, compressors and all related diving equipment. Establish a training and certification program that conforms to the AAUS requirements for research diving. Approve all dive plans submitted for review for dive operations that fall under the control of the WHOI dive program. Maintain all training and medical records for the dive program. Catalog the assets of the diving resource library.

Support WHOI ship operations for vessel underwater maintenance or repair when possible. Operates and maintains a 17' dive boat. Maintain logs of WHOI dive operations and provide periodic reports to the WHOI Dive Control Board. Prepare yearly budgets for operating and new equipment costs. Attend conferences and seminars related to science diving.

Some sea duty may be required. This position requires the ability to be able to lift up to 75 lbs independently, extended periods of standing/walking, manual dexterity and mobility, vision requirements including depth perception and ability to see peripherally. Candidate may be exposed to various weather patterns including excessive heat/cold and inclement weather.

EDUCATION DESIRED:

Degree in a Marine Science or related field. Must possess a current instructor's certificate from a nationally recognized agency and have at least 4 years of varied diving experience, plus 100 hours of underwater time using SCUBA or surface supplied equipment. Must exhibit thorough knowledge of diving theory, safety practices, operational procedures, and diver training. Previous teaching experience is desired.

Must be able to obtain TWIC Card and membership to AAUS.

WHOI is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V. Applications are reviewed confidentially.

Apply online here.

Part-time position with Reef Check CA Program based in the LA area and a perfect position for an undergraduate or graduate student. The primary duties are training volunteers and conducting subtidal surveys using the RCCA methodology. Former or current AAUS training, leadership level dive certification and experience with PISCO like surveys are a plus.

See this PDF for more information.

Down we go. John spies a bug, moves down to the bottom, and presents a sea hare. Lobster attacks, John floats up, Dan moves down for a close-up. After 10 sec, Dan moves up, and I move down with the shrimp. This operation is orchestrated without words, in three dimensions, completely improvised. Spontaneous movement in three dimensions. We were deep enough (30 feet), where you can control your buoyancy by breathing. Take a somewhat deep breath, and you slowly rise off the bottom. Take shallow breaths and you sink down. The cool thing is, this is not just showing off. John noticed a few weeks ago, and I’ve now seen it too, that lobsters often spy the bioluminescence when you kick your fins or make any other movements, and shy away. So don’t kick down to get into place, let out a long breath, and empty your lungs instead. This is tricky. You can’t hold your breath (this risks getting an air embolism and a consequent underwater stroke), but instead only inflate your lungs a little bit, then let it way out. Yoginis can do this easy, I guarantee you. But it’s a bit tricky for the rest of us. Anyway, presentation 1: lobster eats sea hare, lobster eats shrimp. Not test there, but still nice to know

For the entire story, click here.

I'm always looking to publish original pieces about science diving, from virtually any vantage point (as long as it serves to educate), so please email me with yours.

And Billy, if you're reading this, thanks for sharing!

Active REEF and Reef Check diver Mike Bear, along with a group of other interested divers, have initiated a photo database showing the unique "freckles" of the bluntnose sevengill shark in order to provide data to any researcher wishing to monitor the activities of the animal. Sevengills have recently been seen by divers in increasing numbers in the San Diego area of the California coast. I encourage all divers, both recreational and scientific, to contribute. Watch this site in the next few days for more information on the sevengills.

Scientific monitoring of them is a grad school project waiting to happen! -Dida Kutz

contributed by Mike Bear, email

Given the fact that divers in the San Diego area are having increasing numbers of encounters with the Bluntnose Sevengill Shark, Notorynchus cepedianus, also known as the Broadnose Sevengill shark, some of us have decided to begin assembling an informal, photographic database of Sevengill sightings.

There are several reasons for this:

1. We are seeing repeated sightings of this species in the same areas, but without a system to identify individual animals, we have no way of knowing if the same shark is being seen over and over........or, there are multiple sharks in the area. This can best be resolved by comparing photographs which show the unique pattern of dark "freckles" on the backs of each shark, similar to the patterns seen on whale sharks.

2. To our knowledge [please correct us if we are wrong], the marine science community does not appear to be tracking what appears to be a resurgence in the population of this species. While we have done no scientific population studies, because we are not scientists, it would appear that this species is being sighted dramatically more often within the last 2 years than 5-10 years ago. We don't know if it's due to the cessation of the use of gill nets, migration of prey, or just randomness.

3. Some on this list have already generously contributed their photographs to this informal database and we would like to "grow" it, because the more evidence you collect in aggregate form, generally, the higher the accuracy of the data.