Registration is open for online classes designed for recreational and commercial fishers, but North Carolina Sea Grant’s “Introductory Fisheries Science” course is for anyone interested in fisheries science.
Scott Baker and Sara Mirabilio, fisheries specialists with more than 40 years of combined experience, are bringing together state experts for the six-week course set to begin Feb. 22 and run weekly on Tuesday nights through March 29.
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The course covers various topics including fisheries life history, ecology and population assessment.
“This year’s course is another broad overview of fisheries science, with examples specific to our state,” Baker said in a statement.
Enrollment is limited and is available on a first-come, first-served basis for only $20.
“After attending last year’s course, 96% of respondents were pleased with their participation in the program,” Mirabilio said.
The course is geared toward better understanding of fish stocks, especially what factors led to limits and closures.
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This year’s online course includes Fred Scharf from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, Jeff Buckel from N.C. State University, Joel Fodrie and Janet Nye from University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, and Rebecca Asch and Jim Morley from East Carolina University.
“We’ll also have presenters again who bring state agency perspectives, including Jacob Boyd, Corrin Flora, Laura Lee, and Lee Paramore from the N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries,” said Baker. Also, Kevin Dockendorf with the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission is set to present.
Susan White, executive director of North Carolina Sea Grant, said the course plays an integral role in engaging and educating the community about commercial and recreational fishing efforts.
“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,” she said.
