MPSC is offering an online training course that provides Protected Species Observer (also known as Marine Mammal Observer) certification on April 27-28, 2024. 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 the certification is often accepted in many other regions or industries where monitoring and mitigation is required for reducing impacts to protected species. PSOs monitor for marine mammals, sea turtles, and protected fish and document impacts through impartial and unbiased reporting, thus serving a crucial role in the conservation of protected species during industry operations. Our live, interactive courses provide a personalized approach to learning as we discuss how to identify protected species and how to document impacts to the animals. Course cost includes the instruction, advice on applying to PSO positions, the professional certification, and the provision of various regulatory documents and supplementary identification guides which will be yours to keep. This course will examine the regulations for reducing impacts to marine mammals, sea turtles, and protected fish, how to locate and identify the animals, and the monitoring and objective reporting that is required for submission to regulatory agencies. After discussing regulatory requirements, we will examine key identifying traits and behaviors of the different protected species, as well as the key visual cues which can enable location of protected species in a dynamic environment. The course also includes discussion on how to prepare and pack for life offshore. We'll also discuss the best practice methods for living and working with other PSOs and vessel crew within a collaborative team environment, and how to advise on the regulatory measures required to reduce impacts to protected species. 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 & CEO Marine Protected Species Consulting ProtectedSpeciesObservers.com BOEM/BSEE/NMFS-Compliant Provider of Protected Species Observer Certification