Dear MARMAM colleagues, The California Ocean Alliance (COA) is offering a Marine Mammal Naturalist Program in April 2026 for adults seeking structured training in marine mammal biology, behavior, and natural history along the central California coast. COA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to hands-on marine science education and research training, with programs that connect participants directly with active researchers, field sites, and laboratory facilities in the Monterey Bay region. Program details: • Dates: April 1–25, 2026 • Format: Wednesday evening lectures; Saturday morning field outings and lab visits • Location: Santa Cruz (Long Marine Laboratory and nearby coastal sites) • Audience: Educators, docents, early-career professionals, volunteers, and science-engaged members of the public The course integrates lectures with field and laboratory experiences and emphasizes species identification, comparative anatomy, behavior, and applied naturalist skills. Scholarships and tuition support are available to improve accessibility. Additional information and registration details are available at caoceanalliance.org. Please feel free to share with students, colleagues, or others who may be interested. Best regards, Caroline Casey Director of Education, California Ocean Alliance ccasey@caoceanalliance.org <> (510) 541-1066