Registration Opens for the “Introductory Fisheries Science for NC Fishers” Online Training
For immediate release
contact: Scott Baker at 910-962-2492 or msbaker@ncsu.edu.
Registration is open for North Carolina Sea Grant’s popular “Introductory Fisheries Science for NC Fishers” training. Scott Baker and Sara Mirabilio, fisheries specialists with over 45 years of combined experience, will bring together state experts in new online lessons designed for people who fish commercially or recreationally.
“This informal learning opportunity provides a broad overview of fisheries science, with examples specific to our state,” Baker says.
The online training begins February 6 and runs weekly on six consecutive Tuesday nights through March 12. “Introductory Fisheries Science for NC Fishers” will cover a range of topics, including fisheries life history, ecology, population assessment, and more. Participants should expect to attend all six “live” sessions.
Cost is $20. Enrollment is limited and is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with preference for North Carolina-based recreational and commercial fishers.
“After attending last year’s training, 100% of survey respondents were pleased with their participation in the program,” Mirabilio says.
Participants in previous years’ training have noted a variety of benefits.
“I’m a recreational angler who loves fishing on the coast, so my reason for taking the class is to learn more about the state of our fisheries and how decisions are made in managing them,” reported one attendee.
“I really love this program,” remarked another of last year’s participants. “I expected to see passionate and dedicated people sharing what they have applied so much of their life and energy to, and that is what happened.”
“I wanted a better understanding of how decisions are made regarding rules for fishing,” added another. “My expectations were exceeded.”
Mirabilio says attendees also sought to better understand fish stocks, especially what factors led to limits and closures. One participant reported the classes were “comprehensive in scope, but also gave concrete examples based on experiences in NC waters.”
This year’s online training again gathers a wide range of specialists. Academic experts will include Fred Scharf from UNC Wilmington, Jeff Buckel from NC State University, Joel Fodrie from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Jim Morley from East Carolina University.
“We’ll also have presenters again who bring state agency perspectives, including Anne Deaton, Melinda Lambert, and Jason Walsh from the N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries,” Baker says, “as well as Matt Damiano with NOAA Fisheries.”
Susan White, executive director of North Carolina Sea Grant, says “Introductory Fisheries Science for NC Fishers” plays an integral role in engaging and educating the community about commercial and recreational fisheries in our state.
“This course brings the latest science and management information to the table in an approachable and applicable manner for anyone who wants to expand their own role on these topics,” says White.
For more information, contact Scott Baker at 910-962-2492 or msbaker@ncsu.edu.
