November 2013 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Maui's Masquerade - 1st Announcement for SMM Student Travel Fundraiser at the Biennial
by Charles Littnan 04 Nov '13

04 Nov '13

Greetings Potential SMM Biennial Conference Goers- We are a few short weeks away from the conference and plans for the ever-popular Student Travel Fundraiser are well on their way. In Quebec it was Seal Clubbing. In Tampa it was Manatee Mayhem. In Dunedin we hope to inject a little mystery into the celebrations and present to you… Maui’s Masquerade. The mission is the same…we want to raise funds to help get students to our biennial conferences. Our efforts in previous years have raised almost $20,000 and helped dozens of students. We need your help to add to that total. The party in Dunedin is going to happen on Tuesday Dec 10 at 8 PM at Capone's. Our website is live and full of useful information regarding the fundraiser. Please visit it early and often. http://mauismasquerade.weebly.com/index.html Event and raffle tickets are already available for purchase. We ALWAYS sell out so it might be a good idea to buy in advance. We will be selling tickets near the registration desk Sun – Tues. If you buy tickets online they will be available for pick up at our counter at the conference. As always we have great prizes available so make sure you buy lots of raffle tickets!! Remember, this is for a good cause, so even if you don’t plan on attending the conference or the party, there is still an opportunity to donate for student travel. Visit our website and just click on the HERO donation button and give what you can or donate directly to the SMM! Nurture our Society’s future! If you have any questions you can submit them on our webpage at: http://mauismasquerade.weebly.com/contact-us.html Sign up on our Facebook event page and help spread the word to your colleagues: https://www.facebook.com/events/437181099719589 Lastly, this is a masquerade people! Bring a mask! (check out our home page for tips on how to make them!) See you soon and thanks on behalf of all of the SMM's student members. Charles, Ari and Trudi.

1 0

Top Predators as indicators of climate change - PICES meeting in Kona, HI, April 15-18
by Elliott Hazen 04 Nov '13

04 Nov '13

Dear colleagues, I am pleased to announce a 1/2 day workshop at the FUTURE (Forecasting and Understanding Trends, Uncertainty and Responses of North Pacific Marine Ecosystems) Open Science Meeting April 15th-18th on the Kohala Coast on the big island of Hawaii (please see link below). Our workshop will be examining how climate variability and long term change affects top predator populations, ecology, and distribution with the hope of writing a synthesis paper at the culmination of the workshop. The abstract for the workshop and the link for registration are included below, with abstract submissions due December 15th. Travel support is also available for early career scientists to attend. Sincerely, Elliott Hazen and co-organizers http://www.pices.int/meetings/international_symposia/2014/2014-FUTURE-OSM/a… Top predators such as fish, turtles, marine mammals, and seabirds can serve to integrate multiple lower trophic level processes and can provide top-down control of marine food webs. Climate variability and changes affect the timing and strength of productivity at the base of pelagic ecosystems, which are integrated by top predator life histories. This could result in changes in breeding patterns, migration strategies and dietary switching, and ultimately in the fitness and reproductive success of the animal. There is a suite of information from top predators around the Pacific, including survey data, tracking data, diet data, and reproductive data, as well as extensive environmental and climate data that can be synthesized to examine differential ecosystem responses spatially as a function of climate variability and change. There are suites of statistical tools used to analyze climate change effects and part of our discussion would be to identify techniques and synthetic approaches for a potential pan-Pacific meta-analysis. We propose a half-day workshop, and invite topics addressing (1) oceanographic and top predator datasets that can be used to examine responses to climate variability and change, (2) statistical techniques that can be used in differentiating top predator responses to climate variability and climate change, (3) identification of sentinel species that respond directly to climate effects and can be used as leading indicators of ecosystem state, and (4) synthetic approaches to understanding how climate variability and change is incorporated in top predator distribution, abundance, or foraging datasets.

1 0

New Publication: Population genetic structure of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Adriatic Sea and contiguous regions: implications for international conservation
by Stefania Gaspari 03 Nov '13

03 Nov '13

Dear MARMAM readers, We are pleased to announce a recent publication in: Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems, Entitled: Population genetic structure of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Adriatic Sea and contiguous regions: implications for international conservation. Authors: Stefania Gaspari, Draško Holcer, Peter Mackelworth, Caterina Fortuna, Alexandros Frantzis, Tilen Genov, Morgana Vighi, Chiara Natali, Nikolina Rako, Elisa Banchi, Guido Chelazzi and Claudio Ciofi Abstract: Habitat diversity plays a significant role in shaping the genetic structure of cetacean populations. However, the processes involved in defining the genetic differentiation of these highly mobile marine mammals are still largely unknown. Levels of genetic differentiation and dispersal patterns of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) were assessed in the north-eastern Mediterranean Sea, with a focus on the Adriatic Sea. This is a region characterized by diverse marine ecosystems and high levels of human-induced habitat degradation. Although this species seems almost uniformly distributed throughout the Adriatic Basin, genetic evidence rejected the hypothesis of a single stock. Pairwise estimates of genetic differentiation at 12 microsatellite loci, and mitochondrial DNA (entire control region, 920bp), revealed diverse levels of genetic differentiation among five putative populations from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Aegean Sea. A fine-scale genetic structure was recorded within the Adriatic Sea, where females appear to be the principal gene flow mediators. The assessment of recent migration rates indicates a relatively high level of gene flow from the North Adriatic towards adjacent areas. Indication of a fine-scale population structure across the Adriatic Sea is a factor to be carefully considered in the emerging marine management scenario set by the implementation of the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive (2008/56/CE), particularly when it comes to assessing and managing direct mortality caused by human activities (e.g. fisheries or maritime traffic). A good knowledge of population structure at the basin level is also fundamental for the identification of potential Adriatic Special Areas of Conservation for the bottlenose dolphin under the Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC). The paper is downloadable from: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1002/(ISSN)1099-0755/earlyview or write to Stefania Gaspari: stefania.gaspari(a)unifi.it Kind regards, ___________________________________ Stefania Gaspari, MSc, PhD Department of Biology University of Florence Via Madonna del Piano 6, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino (FI), Italy Tel +39 055 45774744 e-mail: stefania.gaspari(a)unifi.it stefaniagaspari(a)gmail.com skype stefaniagaspari

1 0

SCAR Open Science Meeting 2014, Top Predator Session
by Ari Friedlaender 02 Nov '13

02 Nov '13

Dear Colleagues, The 18th Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research Open Science Conference will be held from 25-29 August 2014 in Aukland, New Zealand. The call for abstracts is now open, and I encourage submissions (http://www.scar2014.com/call-for-abstracts/) Specifically, there will be a session entitled: Influence of top predators on ecosystem diversity around Antarctica: present processes and historical signal. This session will aim to consider the Influence of top predators on ecosystem diversity around Antarctica: present processes and historical signals. Using data from a range of taxonomic groups including seabirds, penguins, seals, and whales, we seek presentations that will explore the relationships between predators and their environment over a range of spatial and temporal scales. We encourage multi-disciplinary presentations that develop or test ecological relationships between top predators and the marine ecosystem. We will seek to bring together experts with a broad range of field and analytical methodologies (e.g. telemetry, remote sensing) to provide a foundation for our current knowledge on how predators influence ecosystem diversity as well as to stimulate ideas for collaborative research to address these issues in the face of environmental variability and climate-driven changes in the Antarctic marine ecosystem. Please email me if you have any questions, I look forward to seeing you at SCAR. Ari Friedlaender asf7(a)duke.edu Ari S. Friedlaender, Ph.D. Research Scientist Duke University Marine Laboratory 135 Pivers Island Road Beaufort, NC 28516 p 919 672 0103 f 252 504 7648 asf7(a)duke.edu

1 0

3rd International Marine Conservation Congress, Making Marine Science Matter
by Chris Parsons 01 Nov '13

01 Nov '13

*CALL FOR PROPOSALS FOR SYMPOSIA, WORKSHOPS, AND FOCUS GROUPS* - NB several marine mammal conservation proposals already submitted - Only 2 weeks left ! The 3rd International Marine Conservation Congress, Making Marine Science Matter, will be held from 14-18 August 2014 at the Scottish Exhibition & Conference Centre, Glasgow, Scotland, UK. The call for proposals for symposia, workshops, and focus groups is now. All proposals must be submitted online by *5pm (GMT) on 15 November 2013*. Decisions will be made by 15 December 2013. The selection process is highly competitive. For submission guidelines and more information, please visit: http://www.conbio.org/mini-sites/imcc-2014/registration-participation/sympos ia-workshops Have questions or need help? You can reply to this post or send us messages via FaceBook (www.facebook.com/scbmarine) or Twitter (@SCBMarine). *Be sure to forward the IMCC3 Call for Proposals to anyone who may be interested!* <https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-zkBvoRYexEM/Um-3CVyb9QI/AAAAAAAAAvI/3w2k XPYSjxw/s1600/Making+Marine+Science+Matter.jpg>

1 0

Marine Scientist Position Shell Upstream Americas
by louis.brzuzy＠shell.com 01 Nov '13

01 Nov '13

Shell Upstream Americas is seeking an individual for a one to two year contract assignment who can provide marine science expertise, with an emphasis on the environmental effects of marine sound on aquatic life, to the Shell companies in Upstream Americas. In this capacity, the individual will be responsible for the review and interpretation of scientific information, and the design and coordination of scientific studies within Shell and with our industry partners. The individual may be asked represent Shell on industry, government, and other public committees. Because of the diverse nature of this position, it is important that the individual have a broad educational and applied background in the marine sciences Responsibilities: * Support Shell's strategy to address critical science and policy issues related to sound in the marine environment and the impacts of industry-generated sound on marine mammals, fish, turtles, and invertebrates. This includes scientific review of potential environmental impacts and development of technical comments in support of potential new regulations in these areas. * Coordinate, advise, and provide other inputs to advance the work of Shell's Sound and Marine Life Project Team. * Maintain awareness of advances in marine science, design and coordinate scientific studies within Shell and with our industry partners, and otherwise employ a scholarly approach to the review, interpretation, and use of scientific information. * Develop strong scientific foundation to inform Shell's efforts and engagements with key stakeholders to promote balanced discourse on ocean resources use and protection, environmental issues (with an emphasis on protected species and habitats), and energy policy. * Engage in outreach efforts with regulatory agencies, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations on principal marine science issues. * In conjunction with Upstream Americas Regulatory Policy Team, identify emerging environmental science issues that may affect business objectives, and provide scientific review and critique as warranted. Requirements: * Advanced degree in the marine sciences with broad experience. PhD preferred. * Oceanography or marine acoustics expertise with emphasis on the impacts of anthropogenic sound on marine life. * Understanding of and experience in conducting deep sea ecological studies, including practical aspects for conducting marine research. Support the establishment of baseline marine science requirements for ongoing operations and future developments * Familiarity with ecosystem based management, valuation of ecosystem services, and management of protected species and biologically sensitive areas * Good verbal and written communication skills for engaging with audiences ranging from internal employees to industry colleagues, members of the public, and government. * Self-starter, ability to work well in teams, and under pressure. * Organizational and project delivery skills. * Flexible and able to adapt to changing job demands and priorities * Must have legal authorization to work in the US on a fulltime basis for anyone other than current employer Additional preferred knowledge, skills, and experience: * Three to five years of work experience post graduation and demonstrable credentials. Alternative combinations of education and work experience will be considered * Familiarity with policies affecting the offshore oil and gas industry, particularly understanding of regulatory processes, is preferred * Familiarity with major environmental laws in the U.S. including the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Ocean Dumping Act, the Coastal Zone Management Act, the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, and others. Work Location: Shell prefers that the individual work at a Shell location, either in Houston, TX or New Orleans, LA. Alternative arrangement will be considered based on ability to meet demands of the position. Flexible work schedules are available including a 9/80 work plan. Travel: Moderate travel is required, mostly in the U.S. Responses: Please include the following in your response to this request. 1. Resume/CV of individual(s) from your company proposed for this position 2. Hourly rate for individual (s) 3. Rates for any other associated expenses. All correspondence and inquiries regarding this request should be sent to: Mr. Kent Satterlee III Manager Regulatory Policy - Offshore Upstream Americas Shell Exploration & Production Company One Shell Square, P. O. Box 61933, New Orleans, LA 70161-1933, United States of America Tel: +1 504 728-4143 (Office) +1 713 992-9634 (Mobile Email: kent.satterlee(a)shell.com Electronic submission of the proposal to the e-mail address above is the preferred submission option.

1 0

Job Post: shore based PAM Operators
by Sarah Hancock 01 Nov '13

01 Nov '13

Seiche Measurements Ltd are looking to recruit shore based PAM Operators to support our remote monitoring team. S/he must have some science / marine background or preferable have an environmental qualification. You must also be a team player. The work will be in shift patterns for a period of 6 months starting in November 2013 ending in May 2014 and located in North Devon. If you require more information please ring Leona Marsh on 01409 404050 Sarah Hancock Training Co-Ordinator Description: cid:3383135004_1047591 Seiche Measurements Limited Bradworthy Industrial Estate, Langdon Road, Bradworthy, Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 7SF, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1409 404050 Fax: +44 (0)1409 240276 Mob: +44 7825544436 <http://www.seiche.eu.com/> http://www.seiche.eu.com Registered in England & Wales No. 3475558, Registered Office: The Custom House, The Strand, Barnstaple, Devon

1 0

SMM Workshop Announcement - Mass Stranding Response 2: Rescue and Research (PLUS Marine Mammal Medic Training Opportunity)
by Emma Betty 31 Oct '13

31 Oct '13

Dear colleagues, The Institute for Applied Ecology New Zealand (Auckland University of Technology) and the Coastal-Marine Research Group (Massey University) are pleased to announce that they will sponsor the first 20 student member placements for the workshop "Mass Stranding Response 2: Rescue and Research" which will take place on Sunday 8 December, 9am-5pm - immediately prior to the SMM biennial. The first 20 students members to register will be able to do so at a reduced rate of US$10. Please contact emma.betty(a)aut.ac.nz<mailto:emma.betty@aut.ac.nz> for further details. Workshop description Mass strandings of cetaceans occur in many locations around the world, with varying frequency and levels of response. Response goals, protocols and outcomes are often dependent upon the species involved, existing stranding response infrastructure, and resources available. At the 2011 SMM biennial conference in Tampa, the 'Cetacean Mass Stranding Response' workshop provided a forum for mass stranding responders and researchers to share information that was otherwise available only anecdotally. An important outcome of this workshop was establishing relationships between mass stranding responders around the world to facilitate on-going data sharing and support. It was agreed among participants that the SMM conference presents a great opportunity for mass stranding responders and researchers to network and disseminate current protocols/ research findings on a biennial basis. This workshop is therefore intended as a follow-on session from the 2011 workshop. As a full day workshop, the morning will be dedicated to selected speakers presenting on their agencies and/or groups response protocols and outcomes, and mass-stranding-related research. In the afternoon, we will switch to a discussion format to allow greater networking and information sharing between attendees. Outputs of the workshop will be to: 1) continue to build relationships between mass stranding responders around the world to facilitate on-going data sharing and support, 2) compile existing response protocols and related results (for those willing to share) into a centralised reference repository and 3) potentially develop working groups to address the more pressing or complex problems faced by mass stranding responders. Registration is now open on the conference website: http://www.marinemammalscience.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=articl… Standard registration fee (in US dollars): $50 student members, $100 members, $100 student non-members, $150 non-members. Fees cover the cost of space, audio-visual equipment, catering (lunch and coffee breaks), etc. and will be collected directly by the workshop organisers. For further information, please contact Emma Betty emma.betty(a)aut.ac.nz<mailto:emma.betty@aut.ac.nz> On behalf of workshop organisers: Emma Betty (Auckland University of Technology), Karen Stockin (Massey University), Daren Grover (Project Jonah) and Laura Boren (Department of Conservation) Marine Mammal Medic Training Opportunity!!! On Saturday 14 December, Project Jonah will be running a public session of their Marine Mammal Medic training in Dunedin. All conference participants are welcome to attend, to learn stranded whale and dolphin first aid skills and use their floatation equipment. The course has been developed over 25 years and the skills developed have been used internationally. Places are selling fast so book your place today for $120 here: http://www.projectjonah.org.nz/Get+Involved/Become+a+Marine+Mammal+Medic.ht…

1 0