[MARMAM] New Publication: Availability correction factors for bowhead whales exposed to seismic operations

[Frances Robertson]

Dear Colleagues,



My co-authors and I are pleased to announce that the following publication
is now available.


*Correction factors account for the availability of bowhead whales exposed
to seismic operations in the Beaufort Sea. *

Robertson, FC, WR Koski, JR Brandon, TA Thomas, and AW Trites (2015). J.
Cetacean Res. Manage. 15: 35-44.


Abstract

The accuracy of estimates of cetacean density from line-transect survey
data depends in large part on how visible the target species is to the
observer. Behavioural data (i.e. surface and dive times) from government-
and industry-funded aerial observation programmes (1980–2000) were used to
calculate availability correction factors needed to estimate the number of
bowhead whales (*Balaena mysticetus*) from aerial survey sighting data.
Correction factors were calculated for bowhead whales exposed and not
exposed to seismic operations. Travelling non-calf whales were found to be
less likely to be available for detection than other whales, and their
availability further declined in the presence of seismic operations.
Non-calves were also less available to observers during autumn when exposed
to seismic operations than when not exposed, regardless of activity
(travelling or otherwise)*. *Such differences in availability appear to
reflect behavioural responses to the sound of seismic operations that
alters the surfacing and diving patterns of bowhead whales. Localised
abundance estimated from aerial surveys may range from 3% to as much as 63%
higher in areas ensonified by seismic operations if correction factors are
applied to account for differences in availability associated with the
presence of seismic operations, compared to abundance estimates derived
from assessments that only account for changes in availability of
undisturbed whales. These results provide the first empirical estimates of
availability for bowhead whales exposed to seismic operations and highlight
the implications of not correcting for disturbance-related availability in
density assessments in the vicinity of seismic operations.



This paper is open source and may be accessed through the following link:

http://www.distantfin.net/uploads/6/5/4/8/6548806/rs5745_15_pp35_44_robertson.pdf



Please direct any questions to

frances.c.robert...@gmail.com



Best regards



Frances


-- 
Frances C. Robertson, PhD

*Marine Mammal Biologist*

*~~~*


*Research Scientist SMRU ConsultingElevate Post Doctoral Fellow Simon
Fraser University~*
c: (+1) 360 819 9821
e: frances.c.robert...@gmail.com
t: @distantfins

www.distantfin.net
www.northeastpacificminke.org
www.coastalconnectionvancouver.com
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[MARMAM] New Publication: Reconstructing variability in West Greenland ocean biogeochemistry and bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus) food web structure using amino acid isotope ratios

[Corinne Pomerleau]

Dear MARMAM Colleagues,

My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of the following 
article in Polar Biology:


Reconstructing variability in West Greenland ocean biogeochemistry and bowhead 
whale (Balaena mysticetus) food web structure using amino acid isotope ratios.


by Corinne Pomerleau, Mads Peter Heide-Jørgensen, Steven H. Ferguson, Harry L. 
Stern, Jacob Høyer and Gary A. Stern.


Abstract:


Climate change is causing physical and biological changes in the polar marine 
environment, which may impact higher trophic level predators such as the 
bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus) and the structure of their food webs. We 
used bulk stable isotope analysis and compound specific isotope analysis (CSIA) 
of individual amino acids (AA) to examine bowhead whale trophic position and 
the biogeochemistry of one of their feeding grounds, Disko Bay, West Greenland, 
over a period of 7 years (2007-2013). We also examined whether environmental 
conditions such as sea ice concentration and sea surface temperature were 
causing any interannual variation in isotope data. Bulk ?15N values were 
consistent across the 7 years of sampling and were similar between sex classes. 
Bulk ?13C and essential-AAs ?13C values displayed an overall temporal decline 
of 1.0 and 1.4%, respectively. A signi?cant positive linear relationship was 
found between ?13C of bulk skin and essential-AAs suggesting that some of the 
observed isotopic variation in bowhead whales between years re?ect changes in 
the carbon at the base of the food web. There were no correlations between the 
?13C and ?15N values of isotopic tracers with sea ice concentrations or sea 
surface temperatures. The trophic level of bowhead whales remained stable over 
time despite large interannual variability in ice and temperature regimes. Our 
results indicate that the recent environmental changes in West Greenland 
resulted in no trophic perturbation being transferred to bowhead whales during 
that time period. Our study shows that the novel approach of CSIA-AA can be 
used effectively to study the combined temporal variation of bowhead whale food 
web structure and ecosystem isotopic baseline values and detect changes at the 
species and ecosystem levels.


Here is the link to the article: 
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00300-017-2136-x/fulltext.html


Best regards,


Corinne Pomerleau, Ph.D.

University of Manitoba, Center for Earth Observation Science

Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3T 2N2, Canada

corinne.pomerl...@umanitoba.ca


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[MARMAM] Cetacean Photo-identification Volunteer Position in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand

[Krista Rankmore]

Cetacean Photo-identification Volunteer Position in the Hauraki Gulf, New
Zealand



A volunteer is required to assist with an ongoing study investigating the
site fidelity cetaceans in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand. This project is
part of the ongoing research for the Hauraki Gulf Cetacean Project under
the Coastal-Marine Research Group (C-MRG) at Massey University Albany,
Auckland.



DATES:

While the field season runs year round, currently volunteers are needed
from September 2017 – January 2018. A minimum commitment of three months is
required and priority will be given to those who can commit for longer
periods.



LOCATION: Auckland, New Zealand



FIELDWORK:

The volunteer position involves conducting field surveys, primarily
collecting photo identification on common dolphins, Bryde’s whales,
bottlenose dolphins and killer whales. The successful applicant will gain
valuable experience in conducting marine mammal field research, identifying
individuals based on dorsal fin characteristics, and the use of databases
for archiving field data.

Field work is physically and at times mentally demanding but it is a great
opportunity to gain knowledge in visual cetacean surveying, to get hands-on
field experience in relation to survey techniques, photo-identification,
behavioural observations, and improve practical skills (data analysis,
photo-identification).

Fieldwork is weather dependent and can vary between weekdays and weekends.
Surveys will be conducted from a 20m whale and dolphin watching vessel.



RESPONSIBILITIES:

. Assisting with boat-based photo-identification surveys from a local whale
and dolphin watching vessel collecting environmental, location, and
behavioural data.

. Subsequent data entry and archiving of photo-identification information.

As this is a volunteer position, there is unfortunately no monetary
compensation or living provisions. The successful candidate should arrange
their own accommodation in Auckland, living expenses, travel costs and
visa.



PREREQUISITES:

. Be reliable, adaptable, hardworking and patient as fieldwork is highly
weather dependent. This means time off during bad weather and long
consecutive days in the field when weather permits.

. Have a mature and independent attitude towards marine mammal research

. Be able to work independently

. Speak fluent English

. Be sociable, enthusiastic and have a positive attitude

. Strong interest in the marine environment and conservation

. Participants should be comfortable working on boats



QUALIFICATIONS:

. The project is well suited to upper level undergrads, recent graduates
and graduate students who have some background in biology, marine biology,
ecology, zoology or related fields

. Basic computer proficiency in MS Office (especially Excel)


Preferred qualifications but not required:

. Field research including photo-identification experience

. Previous experience in survey techniques and especially in marine mammal
research

. Prior experience working on research vessels



APPLICATION PROCESS:

Applicants should send a short email to k.hup...@massey.ac.nz, using
“photo-identification position” as the subject line. The email should
include an outline of why you would like to work on this project, the dates
when you are available to assist on the project, your qualifications and
relevant experience. Please also attach a brief CV including at least one
reference acknowledging your relevant experience.



Early application is recommended as applications will be examined in order
of reception.



All the best,

Krista

--

*Research Associate*

*Krista Hupman, PhD*

*Coastal-Marine Research Group*

*Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences*

*Massey University*

*Private Bag 102 904*

*Auckland, New Zealand*



*Tel:  +64 (0)220 256 290*

*Email:   k.hup...@massey.ac.nz *

*Web:**http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz/*

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[MARMAM] Whalefish Professional Development Course: Marine Research Techniques & Conservation

[Els Vermeulen]

Dear Colleagues and students,



A few places remaine on our upcoming Whalefish Professional Development
Course: Marine Research Techniques & Conservation: aimed at marine science
students, graduates and environmental professionals looking to enhance
their career skills.



This course follows the success of Whalefish's 2015 workshop and is
accredited by the *Institute of Marine, Engineering, Science & Technology
(IMarEST).  *



The three-day training course includes lectures, interactive discussion and
practical sessions aimed at introducing scientific techniques in marine
megafauna research and conservation and covers themes such as marine mammal
health, photo identification, passive acoustic monitoring and elasmobranch
tracking. There is also advice on careers in marine science and science
communication.



The course is delivered by Whalefish Directors Niru Dorrian, Dr Els
Vermeulen, Lorenzo Scala and Whalefish Education officer Amy Niven and
Elasmobranch ecologist Dr James Thorburn.



Full price: £300
Student: £250

Price includes bed & breakfast, lunches and evening meals for 2 nights.
Course material and a certificate of attendance.

Accommodation at FSC Millport is provided for two nights inclusive of all
meals and is based on two persons sharing a twin room, with shared shower
facilities. Single bedrooms are available upon request for a supplementary
fee. Should you wish to be placed with a colleague or friend please inform
us at the time of booking and we will strive to arrange this.

https://www.whalefish.org/whalefish-course

Kind regards,

Els

---
Els Vermeulen, PhD


Co-founding Director - Whalefish

www.whalefish.org

+27 (0)60 9714301


Connect - Share - Inspire
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[MARMAM] JOB ADVERT: Marine Acoustic Scientist

[Maja Nimak-Wood]

[cid:image001.jpg@01D2DF76.0FC0BC30]

Gardline Marine Wildlife and Environmental Department is a member of the 
Gardline Marine Sciences Limited Group of companies. We are seeking to expand 
our team and are pleased to offer and excellent opportunity for enthusiastic 
candidates for the role of;
Marine Acoustic Scientist

The acoustics team is part of the Gardline Marine Wildlife and Environmental 
Department and is responsible for providing marine mammal mitigation and 
acoustic monitoring for a wide range of activities throughout the offshore 
industry. These might include but are not limited to seismic surveys, wind farm 
development and the detonation of underwater explosives.

The primary role of the Marine Acoustic Scientist is to perform underwater 
acoustic analysis, including the processing and analysis of underwater noise 
data through acoustic modelling as well as helping with the compilation of 
technical reports.  They also contribute to the development of the acoustic 
team including research and development of acoustic hardware and software. 
Additionally the marine acoustic scientist may assist in the collection of the 
acoustic data through the use of autonomous recording units (ARUs) or other 
noise monitoring equipment in the field on offshore and coastal projects 
worldwide.

We are looking for somebody with passion and enthusiasm and ideally with a 
strong background in marine acoustics, underwater propagation modelling and 
field sampling techniques however; you will be working alongside experienced 
personnel and continuous support as well as on the job training of these 
elements will be provided where required. The position will include development 
of propagation modelling of anthropogenic and biological sources as well as 
developing analysis tools to manage large noise databases. You will also be 
involved in conducting impact assessments of underwater noise for marine 
mammals, fish and invertebrates, according to current standards and codes of 
practice.

You will play a key role in the development of acoustic surveys, noise 
monitoring analysis and reports for submission to regulatory bodies and 
clients. You will also help with the compilation, preparation and quality 
control of these acoustic reports, interpreting the data and providing advice 
on underwater acoustics where required. You will liaise with Gardline acoustic 
partners and develop collaborative approaches in both commercial and research 
areas. When offshore you will assist in the setting up and deployment/recovery 
of ARUs and other noise monitoring equipment, downloading the data and 
performing in field analysis in locations around the world such as the USA, New 
Zealand and Europe.

This role will require you to be based in the office in Great Yarmouth with an 
expectation that you will spend up to 60 days a year offshore in locations 
worldwide.

Key Qualifications/Skills

* Degree or equivalent qualification in acoustics, engineering, 
oceanography or other relevant discipline

* Experience in computer modelling or acoustic propagation algorithms.

* Programming experience in Matlab or similar programming language.

* Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines

* The ability to be flexible and work at sea

Desirable

* An understanding of marine mammals, their biology, identification and 
acoustic behaviour

* An understanding of the issues surrounding marine noise pollution and 
its impact on marine environment

* Familiarity with the use of ARUs, PAMS and other acoustic monitoring 
equipment

* Familiarity with marine mammal mitigation

To apply for the role you ,must be a UK/EEA citizen, please send your CV and 
covering letter to our Recruitment Coordinator, at 
recruitm...@gardline.com or via the careers 
section of our website www.gardlinemarinesciences.com

Closing date: 4th July 2017


Maja Nimak-Wood, CSci/CMarSci, MIMarEST
Principal Marine Mammal Scientist
Gardline Geosurvey Limited

(Please note, I work part-time (Monday to Wednesday) so you may not receive an 
immediate response to emails)

Endeavour House, Admiralty Road,
Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR30 3NG
Tel:  +44 (0)1493 845600
www.gardlinemarinesciences.com

[cid:image002.jpg@01D2DF76.0FC0BC30]

Gardline Environmental is a division of Gardline Geosurvey Limited
Registered in England No. 04589821 |  VAT Registration No. 640 4800 
66Registered office: Endeavour House, Admiralty Road, Great Yarmouth, Norflk, 
NR30 3NG



CONFIDENTIALITY - This e-mail and any attached files contain information that 
is confidential and/or may be subject of legal privilege, intended only for use 
by the addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient or the person 
responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, please be 
advised that you have 

[MARMAM] 1 month left to Apply for University of Miami Graduate School - Marine and Atmospheric Science

[MPS RSMAS]

Good morning!



Hope you are having a great beginning to your summer. My name is Josh Coco
and I am the Associate Director for the Master of Professional Science at
the University of Miami. We know lots of students are making decisions
about where they want to go to graduate school and I just wanted to make sure
you knew that our option is still available for Fall start date (Apps are
due July 1st).



The Master of Professional Science (MPS) is an accelerated, graduate degree
is intended for students who want to generate innovative solutions to
marine, coastal, and climate related issues. Students enrolled in this
program are exposed to a unique, multidisciplinary curriculum, including
science theory, field and laboratory training, legal and regulatory
knowledge, communication and media training, and the development of project
management skills, designed to prepare them to address environmental
challenges as future global leaders.



We have 14 tracks to choose from. The best part of our program is that we
help you customize it toward your interests and career goals.

*Degree Programs *

oApplied Remote Sensing


oAquaculture 

oBroadcast Meteorology


oCoastal Zone Management


oExploration Science


oFisheries Management and Conservation


oJD/MPS Program 

oMarine Conservation


oMarine Mammal Science


oNatural Hazard and Catastrophe Analytics


oTropical Marine Ecosystem Management


oUnderwater Archaeology


oWeather, Climate and Society


oWeather Forecasting




Applications are due July 1st! Looking forward to speaking with you!



Sincerely,



Josh Coco, Ed. D.

Associate Director, Master of Professional Science (MPS)

Tel: (305) 421.4304

Fax: (305) 421.4711

Direct: jc...@rsmas.miami.edu



University of Miami

RSMAS Campus - MPS Office, Room: S/A 132

*4600 Rickenbacker Causeway
*

*Miami, FL 33149-1031
*

MPS: m...@rsmas.miami.edu
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[MARMAM] Dolphin Research Internship in Portugal LAST PLACES!

[AIMM Internships]

*DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL*



*BACKGROUND: *The Marine Environment Research Association - AIMM, is a
non-profit, non-governmental organization focused on the research and
conservation of marine species, running an ongoing study of cetaceans in
southern Portugal (Algarve). This project aims to obtain baseline
information on species occurrence, behavior, and social structure of the
local cetacean populations in order to obtain scientific data to support
conservation measures and inform marine management policies.

The main species observed are Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus
delphis), Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), and Harbour porpoises
(Phocoena phocoena), although other species such as Minke whales
(Balaenoptera acutorostrata) and Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) can
also be sighted.

AIMM Interns are young, hard-working individuals who are willing to
contribute to the association and support on-going activities, while
experiencing fieldwork at sea, learning data collection and processing
methodologies, and being a part of AIMM's team of researchers and marine
biologists for a period of time. All team members and participants share
accommodation, house tasks, knowledge and experience in an environmental
friendly and multicultural environment.

Interns have the additional option to enrich their time with AIMM by
beginning or improving their SCUBA skills with a PADI-certified instructor.



*WHERE:* Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal



*WHEN:* The field season lasts from May 1 - October 31, 2017. The minimum
internship attendance is 7 days, preferably starting on a Monday.



*FIELDWORK: *The field trips are conducted in AIMM's research vessel,
Ketos, or in opportunistic platforms (commercial dolphin-watching boats).
Fieldwork is dependent on weather conditions and seat availability in the
dolphin-watching boats. Field days can be intense, especially in the peak
of summer, but are fulfilling and good fun. The interns will be trained to:

·Conduct on-board surveys of marine species occurrence;

·Record effort tracks on a handheld GPS;

·Collect data on behavior, group size, species, etc.;

·Collection of photo to photo-identification, acoustic recording,
and underwater videos while on-board.



*DATA ANALYSIS: *This will be conducted on a daily basis and will entail
entering data into established databases and spreadsheets,
photo-identification processing, and preliminary data interpretation.



*INTERNSHIP FEES:* AIMM is a non-profit organization that relies on
donations from our volunteers, partners, and conservation-minded people
like you so that we may continue our important research and education
programs in the Algarve. This internship requires a monetary contribution
which is used to off-set the cost of accommodation and running a
non-profit. For more information on internship fees for the 2017 season,
please contact: inte...@aimm-portugal.org



*Included* in the fee is:

·Accommodation in the research house;

·Transportation to/from the marina;

·Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner);

·Fieldwork in the research vessel or commercial dolphin-watching
vessels.



*Not included* in the fee is:

·Transportation to/from Albufeira;

·Meals in restaurants and snacks;

·Free time activities;

·Personal insurance (all participants should have health and/or
travel insurance);

·Personal expenses.



*INTERNS ARE EXPECTED TO:*

·Be above the age of 16;

·Have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research and
environment;

·Be autonomous and flexible;

·Be able to live and work in an international team and mainly
outdoors at sea;

·Speak English;

·Participate for minimum 7 days.



*Preference will be given* to those who have:

·Relevant marine mammal field experience

·Working experience on research vessels

·Experience working from dolphin/whale watching platforms

·Experience in photo-identification

·Professional cameras that can be used for photo-ID

·Availability to stay for longer periods of time



*INTERNSHIP APPLICATION: *

Applicants should fill up the online application at:

http://www.aimmportugal.org/#!internship-aimm/cw7b

After the confirmation e-mail, send your Resume/CV with updated photo and
personal statement on which are your expectations and why do you want to
work with AIMM to: inte...@aimm-portugal.org with the subject “Internship
2017”.

Applicants will be contacted to arrange internship dates and details.

Applications will be accepted during all season, however, early application
is recommended due to limited vacancies.





*Contacts*: inte...@aimm-portugal.org | www.aimmportugal.org |

-- 

AIMM - Associação para Investigação do Meio Marinho / *Marine Environment
Research Association*

w ww.aimmportugal.org