"Using FlowCam to advance biomonitoring, education, and community science in Penobscot Bay" (Maine Coastal and Marine Climate Action Fund/MEIF-SCI award)
Researchers and professors at Maine Maritime Academy have focused on advancing community science and environmental science education using the FlowCam, a next-generation tool for particle imaging of fluids, awarded in 2022 through MEIF-SCI funding. This talk highlighted their work in building partnerships in environmental science in Penobscot Bay and the Bagaduce River estuary. FlowCam is a powerful tool for imaging and categorizing marine plankton (10-1000um). Characterizing plankton dynamics are critical for conservation and restoration efforts in Penobscot Bay and its watershed. The research of the MMA team has thus far focused on understanding zooplankton populations in freshwater ecosystems important for migrating sea-run fish. Their work has also advanced environmental education training for students at MMA and in collaboration with Hurricane Island Center for Science and Leadership. Next steps involve developing a plankton monitoring program that leverages Penobscot Bay oceanographic buoys to be deployed (Spring 2025). Key to this work has been developing community partnerships and involving ocean science students in the classroom and through summer research experiences.
Steven Baer, Associate Professor; Marine Science
LeAnn Whitney, Associate Professor; Oceanography
Kerry Whitaker, Associate Professor; Coastal and Marine Environmental Science
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