June 2017 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

CRRU Summer Field Courses 2017
by Dr Kevin Robinson 10 Jun '17

10 Jun '17

The field dates for the Cetacean Research & Rescue Units 2017 Whales and dolphins of the Moray Firth project in Scotland this summer (running from May to October) are presently listed at: http://www.crru.org.uk/join_the_team.asp Field teams are run in the form of a highly organised and formal training / educational programme, with structured lectures, seminars and presentations by the research team, practical training in field methodologies and data collection and analysis, and of course direct participation in the research, education and rescue work of this dynamic and outgoing conservation charity. The cost for an 11 day internship in 2017 is £1150, and this will cover you for full board (all your accommodation and food costs), full equipment for boat work etc and ALL associated field costs during your stay with us in the picturesque heritage fishing village of Gardenstown, near Banff, in Aberdeenshire. You'll simply need to arrange your own travel itinerary to Banff, Scotland (nearest airport Dyce, Aberdeen, approx. 1½ hours from the field base by coach) plus any personal spending money. For full details, please visit the CRRU project page at www.crru.org.uk/join_the_team.asp <http://www.crru.org.uk/join_the_team.asp> , or email us directly at info(a)crru.org.uk <mailto:info@crru.org.uk> for further information and a pdf copy of the full Project Briefing and an booking/application form. For a list of scientific publications and reports by the CRRU research team, please visit: www.crru.org.uk/publications.asp With all best wishes and thanks Dr. Kevin Robinson Director, CRRU <mailto:kev.robinson@crru.org.uk> kev.robinson(a)crru.org.uk Cetacean Research & Rescue Unit, PO Box 11307, Banff, AB45 3WB, Scotland, UK | ( +44 (0)1261 851696 | <http://www.crru.org.uk/> www.crru.org.uk Whale and Dolphin Research | Environmental Educational Outreach | Marine Wildlife Rescue | Consultancy | MMO Services Recognised Scottish Charity No. SC035473 <http://www.facebook.com/crru.org.uk> <http://www.twitter.com/crru> <https://www.youtube.com/c/CrruOrgUk_CRRU> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/cetacean-research-&-rescue-unit-crru-> P Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail

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World Cetacean Alliance Responsible Whale Watching Guide Course
by Dylan Walker 09 Jun '17

09 Jun '17

*Dear colleagues,* This July, the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is holding an intensive 5-day training programme to become a certified WCA Responsible Whale Watching Guide. *Dates:* Monday 17th – Friday 21st July 2017 *Location:* WCA Headquarters, Brighton, UK *WCA’s Responsible Whale Watching Guide Course* The course will include: * WCA Responsible Whale Watcher course and certification * Lectures and training from seasoned professionals, including: WCA CEO Dylan Walker; Ian Rowlands from WhaleFest and Gina Gow from Incredible Oceans * Workshops * Guide training * Data collection and feedback * Practical activities, including boat work * Final presentation/assessment After successful completion of the course, participants will be placed on a database of qualified guides from where WCA Partner whale watching companies, NGO's, and affiliates will be able to select suitable candidates for internship and guiding opportunities. Any successful placement will be subject to the terms and conditions of the WCA Partner or affiliate. *Applications* * Limited places available, so early application is strongly encouraged. * Please send a full CV (maximum two pages) and a cover letter, including: previous experience, why you would like to participate in the course and, what you hope to achieve after completing the course to projects(a)worldcetaceanalliance.org * Applications will be open until 23rd June, and places will be confirmed by 28 June 2017. * Successful applicants will receive a welcome pack, including a WCA t-shirt. * A participation fee of £350 is required from all successful candidates, with a 10% discount for students and WCA members (£315). * Accommodation and travel expenses must be covered by the participants, but we can work with successful candidates to find something suitable. To apply, please email Lynne Burrell at: *projects(a)worldcetaceanalliance.org <projects(a)worldcetaceanalliance.org>* Regards, Dylan Walker Chief Executive Officer *World Cetacean Alliance * *[image: http://worldwhaleconference.org/] <http://worldwhaleconference.org/>* *T *+44 (0)1273 355011* M *+44 (0)7900 471490* S *dylan.wca *E *dylan(a)worldcetaceanalliance.org* W *worldcetaceanalliance.org *W2 *whaleheritagesites.org *W3 *worldwhaleconference.org <http://www.worldwhaleconference.org> *A *Studio 3, Lower Promenade, Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1ET, UK *The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is a Partnership of over 90 non-profit organisations, whale and dolphin watching tour operators and individuals in 40 countries worldwide working collaboratively to protect cetaceans and their habitats. World Cetacean Alliance, the Secretariat to the Partnership, is a UK registered Charity no. 1160484. * *The content of this e-mail is intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed. If you have received this communication in error, be aware that forwarding it, copying it, or in any way disclosing its content to any other person, is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the author by replying to this e-mail immediately.* *Please consider the environment before printing this email or it's attachments. *

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Call for Panelist and visual materials for the SMM 2017 Canadian Celebration and Trivia Event!
by Katie Kowarski 09 Jun '17

09 Jun '17

Do you or someone you know have a cool story to share about an experience you’ve had with *marine mammals in Canadian waters*? Maybe the first time you saw a whale, seal, or polar bear, the most moving or rare behaviour you have observed, or just a funny tale from your field work? Are you also an engaging speaker? Then contact the SMM organizing committee! At the *2017 SMM Biennial Conference in Halifax, Nova Scotia* we are hosting a Canadian Celebration on the evening of *Tuesday, October 24th 2017* with the aim to inspire a fascination for marine mammals and an appreciation for Canada’s contribution to the field in a format inclusive for both conference attendees and the public; primarily via a visual display and *storytelling*. *We are looking for 5-6 panelists* representing different Canadian regions and species to share stories, answer questions from the audience, and have a great time! Following the panel, we’ll invite a larger group of you to join our panelists to face the challenge of the Great Marine Mammal Trivia Game! *Honour and glory will be up for grabs!* In addition to panelists, we are also looking for *videos and images of marine mammals* and marine mammal research in Canadian waters to include in a video to be presented as an introduction to this event and via our social media outlets! If you are interested, would like to recommend someone, or have materials you’d like to contribute, please contact us at CanadaCelebration(a)marinemammalscience.org Sincerely, Katie & Tonya Your SMM 2017 Canadian Celebration Committee

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New Publication: Availability correction factors for bowhead whales exposed to seismic operations
by Frances Robertson 09 Jun '17

09 Jun '17

Dear Colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce that the following publication is now available. *Correction factors account for the availability of bowhead whales exposed to seismic operations in the Beaufort Sea. * Robertson, FC, WR Koski, JR Brandon, TA Thomas, and AW Trites (2015). J. Cetacean Res. Manage. 15: 35-44. Abstract The accuracy of estimates of cetacean density from line-transect survey data depends in large part on how visible the target species is to the observer. Behavioural data (i.e. surface and dive times) from government- and industry-funded aerial observation programmes (1980–2000) were used to calculate availability correction factors needed to estimate the number of bowhead whales (*Balaena mysticetus*) from aerial survey sighting data. Correction factors were calculated for bowhead whales exposed and not exposed to seismic operations. Travelling non-calf whales were found to be less likely to be available for detection than other whales, and their availability further declined in the presence of seismic operations. Non-calves were also less available to observers during autumn when exposed to seismic operations than when not exposed, regardless of activity (travelling or otherwise)*. *Such differences in availability appear to reflect behavioural responses to the sound of seismic operations that alters the surfacing and diving patterns of bowhead whales. Localised abundance estimated from aerial surveys may range from 3% to as much as 63% higher in areas ensonified by seismic operations if correction factors are applied to account for differences in availability associated with the presence of seismic operations, compared to abundance estimates derived from assessments that only account for changes in availability of undisturbed whales. These results provide the first empirical estimates of availability for bowhead whales exposed to seismic operations and highlight the implications of not correcting for disturbance-related availability in density assessments in the vicinity of seismic operations. This paper is open source and may be accessed through the following link: http://www.distantfin.net/uploads/6/5/4/8/6548806/rs5745_15_pp35_44_roberts… Please direct any questions to frances.c.robertson(a)gmail.com Best regards Frances -- Frances C. Robertson, PhD *Marine Mammal Biologist* *~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~* *Research Scientist SMRU ConsultingElevate Post Doctoral Fellow Simon Fraser University~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~* c: (+1) 360 819 9821 e: frances.c.robertson(a)gmail.com t: @distantfins www.distantfin.net www.northeastpacificminke.org www.coastalconnectionvancouver.com

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New Publication: Reconstructing variability in West Greenland ocean biogeochemistry and bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus) food web structure using amino acid isotope ratios
by Corinne Pomerleau 09 Jun '17

09 Jun '17

Dear MARMAM Colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of the following article in Polar Biology: Reconstructing variability in West Greenland ocean biogeochemistry and bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus) food web structure using amino acid isotope ratios. by Corinne Pomerleau, Mads Peter Heide-Jørgensen, Steven H. Ferguson, Harry L. Stern, Jacob Høyer and Gary A. Stern. Abstract: Climate change is causing physical and biological changes in the polar marine environment, which may impact higher trophic level predators such as the bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus) and the structure of their food webs. We used bulk stable isotope analysis and compound specific isotope analysis (CSIA) of individual amino acids (AA) to examine bowhead whale trophic position and the biogeochemistry of one of their feeding grounds, Disko Bay, West Greenland, over a period of 7 years (2007-2013). We also examined whether environmental conditions such as sea ice concentration and sea surface temperature were causing any interannual variation in isotope data. Bulk ?15N values were consistent across the 7 years of sampling and were similar between sex classes. Bulk ?13C and essential-AAs ?13C values displayed an overall temporal decline of 1.0 and 1.4%, respectively. A signi?cant positive linear relationship was found between ?13C of bulk skin and essential-AAs suggesting that some of the observed isotopic variation in bowhead whales between years re?ect changes in the carbon at the base of the food web. There were no correlations between the ?13C and ?15N values of isotopic tracers with sea ice concentrations or sea surface temperatures. The trophic level of bowhead whales remained stable over time despite large interannual variability in ice and temperature regimes. Our results indicate that the recent environmental changes in West Greenland resulted in no trophic perturbation being transferred to bowhead whales during that time period. Our study shows that the novel approach of CSIA-AA can be used effectively to study the combined temporal variation of bowhead whale food web structure and ecosystem isotopic baseline values and detect changes at the species and ecosystem levels. Here is the link to the article: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00300-017-2136-x/fulltext.html Best regards, Corinne Pomerleau, Ph.D. University of Manitoba, Center for Earth Observation Science Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3T 2N2, Canada corinne.pomerleau(a)umanitoba.ca

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Cetacean Photo-identification Volunteer Position in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand
by Krista Rankmore 08 Jun '17

08 Jun '17

Cetacean Photo-identification Volunteer Position in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand A volunteer is required to assist with an ongoing study investigating the site fidelity cetaceans in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand. This project is part of the ongoing research for the Hauraki Gulf Cetacean Project under the Coastal-Marine Research Group (C-MRG) at Massey University Albany, Auckland. DATES: While the field season runs year round, currently volunteers are needed from September 2017 – January 2018. A minimum commitment of three months is required and priority will be given to those who can commit for longer periods. LOCATION: Auckland, New Zealand FIELDWORK: The volunteer position involves conducting field surveys, primarily collecting photo identification on common dolphins, Bryde’s whales, bottlenose dolphins and killer whales. The successful applicant will gain valuable experience in conducting marine mammal field research, identifying individuals based on dorsal fin characteristics, and the use of databases for archiving field data. Field work is physically and at times mentally demanding but it is a great opportunity to gain knowledge in visual cetacean surveying, to get hands-on field experience in relation to survey techniques, photo-identification, behavioural observations, and improve practical skills (data analysis, photo-identification). Fieldwork is weather dependent and can vary between weekdays and weekends. Surveys will be conducted from a 20m whale and dolphin watching vessel. RESPONSIBILITIES: . Assisting with boat-based photo-identification surveys from a local whale and dolphin watching vessel collecting environmental, location, and behavioural data. . Subsequent data entry and archiving of photo-identification information. As this is a volunteer position, there is unfortunately no monetary compensation or living provisions. The successful candidate should arrange their own accommodation in Auckland, living expenses, travel costs and visa. PREREQUISITES: . Be reliable, adaptable, hardworking and patient as fieldwork is highly weather dependent. This means time off during bad weather and long consecutive days in the field when weather permits. . Have a mature and independent attitude towards marine mammal research . Be able to work independently . Speak fluent English . Be sociable, enthusiastic and have a positive attitude . Strong interest in the marine environment and conservation . Participants should be comfortable working on boats QUALIFICATIONS: . The project is well suited to upper level undergrads, recent graduates and graduate students who have some background in biology, marine biology, ecology, zoology or related fields . Basic computer proficiency in MS Office (especially Excel) Preferred qualifications but not required: . Field research including photo-identification experience . Previous experience in survey techniques and especially in marine mammal research . Prior experience working on research vessels APPLICATION PROCESS: Applicants should send a short email to K.Hupman(a)massey.ac.nz, using “photo-identification position” as the subject line. The email should include an outline of why you would like to work on this project, the dates when you are available to assist on the project, your qualifications and relevant experience. Please also attach a brief CV including at least one reference acknowledging your relevant experience. Early application is recommended as applications will be examined in order of reception. All the best, Krista ---------------------------------- *Research Associate* *Krista Hupman, PhD* *Coastal-Marine Research Group* *Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences* *Massey University* *Private Bag 102 904* *Auckland, New Zealand* *Tel: +64 (0)220 256 290* *Email: k.hupman(a)massey.ac.nz <k.hupman(a)massey.ac.nz>* *Web: **http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz/* <https://owa.massey.ac.nz/owa/redir.aspx?C=QIoA5pdRuUCToTWBw5X7lA6HAVO4K9EIs…>

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Whalefish Professional Development Course: Marine Research Techniques & Conservation
by Els Vermeulen 08 Jun '17

08 Jun '17

Dear Colleagues and students, A few places remaine on our upcoming Whalefish Professional Development Course: Marine Research Techniques & Conservation: aimed at marine science students, graduates and environmental professionals looking to enhance their career skills. This course follows the success of Whalefish's 2015 workshop and is accredited by the *Institute of Marine, Engineering, Science & Technology (IMarEST). <http://www.imarest.com/>* The three-day training course includes lectures, interactive discussion and practical sessions aimed at introducing scientific techniques in marine megafauna research and conservation and covers themes such as marine mammal health, photo identification, passive acoustic monitoring and elasmobranch tracking. There is also advice on careers in marine science and science communication. The course is delivered by Whalefish Directors Niru Dorrian, Dr Els Vermeulen, Lorenzo Scala and Whalefish Education officer Amy Niven and Elasmobranch ecologist Dr James Thorburn. Full price: £300 Student: £250 Price includes bed & breakfast, lunches and evening meals for 2 nights. Course material and a certificate of attendance. Accommodation at FSC Millport is provided for two nights inclusive of all meals and is based on two persons sharing a twin room, with shared shower facilities. Single bedrooms are available upon request for a supplementary fee. Should you wish to be placed with a colleague or friend please inform us at the time of booking and we will strive to arrange this. https://www.whalefish.org/whalefish-course Kind regards, Els ------------------------------- Els Vermeulen, PhD Co-founding Director - Whalefish www.whalefish.org +27 (0)60 9714301 Connect - Share - Inspire

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New Website Address for the US Navy's Living Marine Resources (LMR) Program
by Kumar, Anurag CIV NAVFAC EXWC, EV LMR PM 07 Jun '17

07 Jun '17

The US Navy's Living Marine Resources (LMR) program's website address has changed due to migration of the site to a new host server. The new website address is http://greenfleet.dodlive.mil/LMR. The old website address is no longer functional. We will post the announcement for soliciting proposals on specific research topics on the website in late summer this year. Also, we recently posted the LMR winter/spring newsletter and the 2016 annual report. v/r Anu Anurag Kumar Living Marine Resources Program Manager NAVFAC EXWC (CODE EV) 1000 23rd Avenue Port Hueneme, CA 93043

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Vivamar and Bottlenose dolphins off Istria, Croatia - still having few spots for the volunteers in 2017
by mag. Darja Ribaric 07 Jun '17

07 Jun '17

Vivamar Society, founded in the year 2002, is still having some free volunteer spots for this summer. This year our main focus continues to be studying the influence of nautical tourism to the local bottlenose dolphin population (T. truncatus). With the help of students and volunteers we have achieved great results in obtaining baseline data about the local dolphin population (distribution, abundance) and are helping in shaping the conservation steps for these dolphins. Activities in raising the awareness of the local people, nautical tourists, and communication to fishermen are running in parallel to present the importance of dolphin preservation for the entire marine ecosystem. During the stay students will, along with the research methods, learn also how to prepare and deliver the key messages, which might remain as a good learning experience also for the everyday life and later for the employment. VIVAMAR teams are small and offer intense connection between the team members and an attention of a researcher to the motivated students. The program comprises numerous lectures on the Marine Mammals topic and offers hands on experiences in the field research, including methodology, data analysis and possible engagement in Vivamar awareness activities to the local people. For the team dates please check here: http://vivamar.org/volunteer/ You can see more about our activities: http://vivamar.org/research-projects/ Besides doing a research, this is an excellent offer to students that would like to visit a new country, yet to help in conservation of the last constantly present marine mammals in the area of the NE Adriatic. DURATION, COST and APPLICATION: Please write to info(a)vivamar.org for more information about the 11 day team dates. You will get the costs details, a welcome pack, logistic details and how to apply. Required Qualifications and conditins: * no previous experience is mandatory but is an advantage, * min work on a programme 4-6 hours/day; you will work 8 out of 11 days, * strong interest to study marine mammals, positive attitude to other team members, * being able to recognize the importance of dolphin conservation & research for the local Marine Ecosystem and through this - Vivamar efforts in the area, * independent work, as well as in the group, * basic computer literacy in Microsoft Office and possible ability in writing the reports (or at least a will to learn that); Let's meet this summer in the sensitive NE Adriatic for the Dolphin Conservation, DARJA RIBARIČ, Master of Philosophy in Biol. President and Head researcher darja.ribaric(a)vivamar.org VIVAMAR Society for the Sustainable Development for the Sea Dolphin Research & Conservation / Marine Wildlife Awareness www.VIVAMAR.org <https://www.facebook.com/vivamar?ref=hl> <https://twitter.com/infoVivamar> <https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=14368368&trk=nav_responsive_tab_pr ofile_pic> Recognised in the Ministry for Environment as being in the public interest 215-10/2007/4

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JOB ADVERT: Marine Acoustic Scientist
by Maja Nimak-Wood 07 Jun '17

07 Jun '17

[cid:image001.jpg@01D2DF76.0FC0BC30] Gardline Marine Wildlife and Environmental Department is a member of the Gardline Marine Sciences Limited Group of companies. We are seeking to expand our team and are pleased to offer and excellent opportunity for enthusiastic candidates for the role of; Marine Acoustic Scientist The acoustics team is part of the Gardline Marine Wildlife and Environmental Department and is responsible for providing marine mammal mitigation and acoustic monitoring for a wide range of activities throughout the offshore industry. These might include but are not limited to seismic surveys, wind farm development and the detonation of underwater explosives. The primary role of the Marine Acoustic Scientist is to perform underwater acoustic analysis, including the processing and analysis of underwater noise data through acoustic modelling as well as helping with the compilation of technical reports. They also contribute to the development of the acoustic team including research and development of acoustic hardware and software. Additionally the marine acoustic scientist may assist in the collection of the acoustic data through the use of autonomous recording units (ARUs) or other noise monitoring equipment in the field on offshore and coastal projects worldwide. We are looking for somebody with passion and enthusiasm and ideally with a strong background in marine acoustics, underwater propagation modelling and field sampling techniques however; you will be working alongside experienced personnel and continuous support as well as on the job training of these elements will be provided where required. The position will include development of propagation modelling of anthropogenic and biological sources as well as developing analysis tools to manage large noise databases. You will also be involved in conducting impact assessments of underwater noise for marine mammals, fish and invertebrates, according to current standards and codes of practice. You will play a key role in the development of acoustic surveys, noise monitoring analysis and reports for submission to regulatory bodies and clients. You will also help with the compilation, preparation and quality control of these acoustic reports, interpreting the data and providing advice on underwater acoustics where required. You will liaise with Gardline acoustic partners and develop collaborative approaches in both commercial and research areas. When offshore you will assist in the setting up and deployment/recovery of ARUs and other noise monitoring equipment, downloading the data and performing in field analysis in locations around the world such as the USA, New Zealand and Europe. This role will require you to be based in the office in Great Yarmouth with an expectation that you will spend up to 60 days a year offshore in locations worldwide. Key Qualifications/Skills * Degree or equivalent qualification in acoustics, engineering, oceanography or other relevant discipline * Experience in computer modelling or acoustic propagation algorithms. * Programming experience in Matlab or similar programming language. * Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines * The ability to be flexible and work at sea Desirable * An understanding of marine mammals, their biology, identification and acoustic behaviour * An understanding of the issues surrounding marine noise pollution and its impact on marine environment * Familiarity with the use of ARUs, PAMS and other acoustic monitoring equipment * Familiarity with marine mammal mitigation To apply for the role you ,must be a UK/EEA citizen, please send your CV and covering letter to our Recruitment Coordinator, at recruitment(a)gardline.com<mailto:recruitment@gardline.com> or via the careers section of our website www.gardlinemarinesciences.com Closing date: 4th July 2017 Maja Nimak-Wood, CSci/CMarSci, MIMarEST Principal Marine Mammal Scientist Gardline Geosurvey Limited (Please note, I work part-time (Monday to Wednesday) so you may not receive an immediate response to emails) Endeavour House, Admiralty Road, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR30 3NG Tel: +44 (0)1493 845600 www.gardlinemarinesciences.com<http://www.gardlinemarinesciences.com/> [cid:image002.jpg@01D2DF76.0FC0BC30] Gardline Environmental is a division of Gardline Geosurvey Limited Registered in England No. 04589821 | VAT Registration No. 640 4800 66Registered office: Endeavour House, Admiralty Road, Great Yarmouth, Norflk, NR30 3NG ________________________________ CONFIDENTIALITY - This e-mail and any attached files contain information that is confidential and/or may be subject of legal privilege, intended only for use by the addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient or the person responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this message in error and that any dissemination, copying or use of this message or attachment is strictly forbidden, as is the disclosure of the information therein. If you have received this message in error please notify the sender immediately and preserve this confidentiality by deleting the message. Sender accepts no responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of this message as it has been transmitted over public networks. Unless otherwise specifically stated any views or opinions are solely those of the author and do not represent those of the sender Company. This email has been virus checked by Barracuda Spam Firewall on behalf of the Gardline Group of Companies.

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