Holiday 2015

Table of Contents

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR:
Our Sea Grant Charge: Improving Science, Education and Collaboration

In the new year, Susan White, North Carolina Sea Grant executive director, seeks ideas on ways to expand efforts, extend partnerships and enhance student investment.

IMPROVING SURVIVAL: NEW GEAR MAY HELP CATCH-AND-RELEASE FISH

Learn how North Carolina, Virginia and New Jersey Sea Grant programs’ fisheries experts are helping fishes survive release.

• Building Partnerships for Success
  Sara Mirabilio explains how one fishing trip had seasoned anglers and disadvantaged youth testing a prototype device.

SMALL BUT MIGHTY: MINIGRANTS SUPPORT QUICK TURNAROUND, PILOT STUDIES

Find out why North Carolina Sea Grant’s minigrant program is considered a best-management practice.

• Minigrants: Fast, Simple, Noteworthy
  John Fear highlights the strengths of the minigrant program.
• Jellyfish in Bloom: Are Humans Contributing to Local Populations?
  Scientists test Atlantic sea nettles’ preference for man-made and natural surfaces.
• Fishing for Funding
  A minigrant helped a North Carolina business test an alternative crab bait.
• Algae Patrol: Documenting a Changing Community
  A researcher examines the arrival of tropical species.

PEOPLE AND PLACES:
Dog(fish) Days of Winter

Braving the elements — and a sometimes uncooperative target species — Jack Horan attends a fishing tournament for the hardy

LEGAL TIDES:
Education, Outreach Needed for Wildlife Plan Success

Jamie Heath discusses how community support could benefit the State Wildlife Action Plan.

SEA SCIENCE:
DOES IT REALLY START AT HOME?
How North Carolina Marine Habitats Influence Black Sea Bass Growth and Maturity

Lend an ear(bone) to Ian Kroll as he studies black sea bass.

LOCAL CATCH:
Trapping and Tasting an Invader

Researchers are testing new ways to catch — and consume — lionfish.

CURRENTS:
Encouraging Collaborative Community Research

A new grant program focuses on partnerships.