Greater Farallones Association (GFA) is proud to host its first Conservation Science Fellowship program in 2022, supporting college students or early-career professionals from backgrounds underrepresented in the sciences. This paid fellowship was made possible through grant support from JW & HM Goodman Family Foundation.
The GFA Conservation Science Fellowship provides a well-rounded experience for young scientists to train in multiple ecological field methods, data management, data analysis, statistical modeling, and reporting recommendations to managers. They are provided the opportunity to directly interface with coastal resource managers, scientists, and restoration practitioners, while working on projects related to ocean conservation and national marine sanctuaries. A key goal of this fellowship is to elevate underrepresented voices in marine science and help diversify the field of conservation.
With close collaboration and mentorship provided by GFA’s Conservation Science staff, the 2022 fellow integrated data from two community science programs operated in partnership with the Sanctuaries: Beach Watch and LiMPETS.
-
- Beach Watch connects 150 volunteers annually to the ocean and has assisted in the early detection of and rapid response to natural and human-caused environmental events. Beach Watch monitors over 300 species of birds and 30 marine mammals that are important sentinel indicators of ecosystem health, as well as documents oil and human uses, along the North-central California coast.
- LiMPETS (Long-term Monitoring Program and Experiential Training for Students) involves high school students in a meaningful scientific endeavor and increases their awareness of, and interest in, the marine environment. Students are immersed in a scientific fieldwork experience. They acquire and practice valuable observational and data-collection skills while learning about the scientific process, ecosystems, and how scientists understand and monitor coastal habitats.
For questions about the Conservation Science Fellowship, please contact Kirsten Lindquist at klindquist@farallones.org.
