Greetings, My name is Jaiere Harlow, and I am a second year PhD student studying Interdisciplinary Ecology at the University of Florida. My research focuses on the key factors influencing the Florida manatee's historic and current habitat, migratory patterns, and behavior (social and foraging). For one of my dissertation chapters, I am examining these aspects through a human dimensions lens by conducting surveys. The goal of my survey is to gain deeper understanding of the relationship between professional and public knowledge regarding the current challenges facing manatee populations in Central Florida, with emphasis in the Indian River Lagoon. This survey is targeted toward graduate students, professionals (i.e., state and government agency employees), other experienced individuals with substantial employment related to wildlife ecology and conservation and manatees/manatee conservation (i.e., eco tour guides), and the general public. Additionally, the survey aims to identify the knowledge gaps and misconceptions, if any, the public has about manatee conservation, to help improve participation of socioeconomic conservation efforts for increased support of the current (and future) manatee population. Whether you consider your knowledge of manatees limited or extensive, your participation will be highly valuable. It will help capture and reflect the impact of citizen science on manatee conservation efforts. These research findings could play a significant role in enhancing conservation strategies at both state and federal levels, contributing to the ongoing efforts to sustain and increase the manatee population in Florida. The survey will remain open for 14 days, so if you're unable to complete it today, please feel free to return to this email at your convenience to participate. I aim to gather data from as many participants as possible, so your participation will be very much appreciated. Below is the survey link. Thanks again so much! Survey link: https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5pwXBHPoB6Jkp1k Best, Jaiere Harlow PhD student School of Natural Resources and Environment Florida Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit University of Florida (630) 429-0499 - phone Jharlow1@ufl.edu<mailto:Jharlow1@ufl.edu> - email [cid:image001.png@01DAF898.1E26AEE0]
