I am the agent for the Camas River's Edge Homeowner's Association (HOA). The HOA recently got permits in place to drive piling for a community dock on the Columbia River. One of the conditions is to have three Stellar Sea Lion Observers during pile driving. The project must happen before Feb 15th 2011, so I need a quick response if possible. Minimum qualifications are: Attachment A. Minimum Qualifications for Marine Mammal Observers 1. Visual acuity in both eyes (correction is permissible) sufficient for discernment of moving targets at the water's surface with ability to estimate target size and distance. Use of binoculars may be necessary to correctly identify the target. 2. Advanced education in biological science, wildlife management, mammalogy or related fields (Bachelor's degree or higher is preferred). 3. Experience and ability to conduct field observations and collect data according to assigned protocols (this may include academic experience). 4. Experience or training in the field identification of marine mammals (cetaceans and pinnipeds). 5. Sufficient training, orientation or experience with vessel operation and pile driving operations to provide for personal safety during observations. All vessel operators will possess, on their person, a WA boater education card. 6. Writing skills sufficient to prepare a report of observations that would include such information as the number, type, and location of marine mammals observed; the behavior of marine mammals in the project area during construction, dates and times when observations and in-water construction activities were conducted; dates and times when in-water construction activities were suspended to avoid incidental harassment by disturbance from construction noise; etc. 7. Ability to communicate orally, by radio or in person, with project personnel to provide real time information on marine mammals observed in the area, as necessary. Anyone qualified and interested can contact me for the 3 page document that needs to be followed. A proposal from a team of three would be preferred, individual responses gladly accepted. Thanks for allowing my posting. Jack Loranger, Shoreline Permit Procurement, loranger@saw.net