Hi, MPSC is holding a training course online which provides Protected Species Observer (also known as Marine Mammal Observer) certification on February 20-21, 2021. 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 seismic surveys, and is a long-standing industry standard which is often accepted in various other regions or industries where monitoring and mitigation for protected species is needed. 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 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 and sea turtles, how to visually locate and identify the animals, and objective documentation of animal behavior for reporting to regulatory agencies. After students have successfully completed the course, we'll also provide advice on applying to PSO positions. 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/