MPSC is offering an online training course that provides Protected Species Observer (also known as Marine Mammal Observer) certification on February 19-20, 2022. This training is approved by the federal agencies Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) and Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) in coordination with National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to provide Protected Species Observer Certification for geological and geophysical surveys in the Gulf of Mexico, and is a long-standing industry standard which is often accepted in other regions or industries where monitoring for protected species and mitigation of impacts is required (such as renewable energy construction and monitoring). Course cost includes the instruction, advice on applying to PSO positions, the professional certification, and various regulatory documents and supplementary identification guides. PSOs monitor mainly for ESA-listed animals and marine mammals. PSOs complete certain reports on protected species activity and industry operations, and advise on the measures required to reduce impacts to the animals. As discussed in the course, working offshore as a PSO is fun, but it involves long hours of standing watch for the animals; thus, the job requires patience and persistence. The course examines the regulations for reducing impacts to marine mammals, sea turtles and other protected species, how to visually locate and identify the animals, and objective documentation of animal behavior and industry operations for reporting to regulatory agencies. The course includes a live discussion on how to pack for offshore and how to work effectively onboard vessels. Attendees are also provided a packing list with recommended items and tips for productive personal interactions when living and working offshore. Additional potential requirements for offshore work are also discussed. Additional information may be found on the MPSC website at http://www.protectedspeciesobservers.com/, by contacting me at ABostwick@psocertifications.com, or by phone at 832-523-2402. Thank you, Angela Bostwick Founder / Marine Protected Species Consulting ProtectedSpeciesObservers.com https://Facebook.com/ProtectedSpeciesObservers/