MPSC is offering an online training course that provides Protected
Species Observer (also known as Marine Mammal Observer) certification on
February 19-20, 2022. This training is approved by the federal agencies
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) and Bureau of Safety and
Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) in coordination with National Marine
Fisheries Service (NMFS) to provide Protected Species Observer
Certification for geological and geophysical surveys in the Gulf of
Mexico, and is a long-standing industry standard which is often accepted
in other regions or industries where monitoring for protected species
and mitigation of impacts is required (such as renewable energy
construction and monitoring). Course cost includes the instruction,
advice on applying to PSO positions, the professional certification, and
various regulatory documents and supplementary identification guides.
PSOs monitor mainly for ESA-listed animals and marine mammals. PSOs
complete certain reports on protected species activity and industry
operations, and advise on the measures required to reduce impacts to the
animals. As discussed in the course, working offshore as a PSO is fun,
but it involves long hours of standing watch for the animals; thus, the
job requires patience and persistence. The course examines the
regulations for reducing impacts to marine mammals, sea turtles and
other protected species, how to visually locate and identify the
animals, and objective documentation of animal behavior and industry
operations for reporting to regulatory agencies. The course includes a
live discussion on how to pack for offshore and how to work effectively
onboard vessels. Attendees are also provided a packing list with
recommended items and tips for productive personal interactions when
living and working offshore. Additional potential requirements for
offshore work are also discussed.
Additional information may be found on the MPSC website at
http://www.protectedspeciesobservers.com/, by contacting me at
[email protected], or by phone at 832-523-2402.
Thank you,
Angela Bostwick
Founder / Marine Protected Species Consulting
ProtectedSpeciesObservers.com
https://Facebook.com/ProtectedSpeciesObservers/
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