This opportunity is curated through the UF TESI Environmental Leaders Network. Opportunities posted through the Network may not be affiliated with the Florida Museum or TESI, but are shared with UF undergraduate students who want to learn more about environmental research, education and outreach, and civic engagement.
Opportunity title
Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch Volunteer Program
Host organization/department
UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station
Description
BECOME A CITIZEN SCIENTIST!
In 2015, FWRI and the University of Florida launched a citizen science initiative that trained volunteers to assist biologists in surveying, tagging, and resighting Florida’s nesting horseshoe crab populations using a standardized scientific protocol. The program has been so successful that FWC is expanding our efforts to a statewide level.
Free virtual training required https://ifas-ncbs.catalog.instructure.com/courses/florida-horseshoe-crab-watch-virtual-volunteer-training
Once the training has been completed, volunteers will receive email updates and a google spreadsheet link to sign up for sampling dates. Volunteers will pick up gear kits prior to sampling and arrive at the specified time and place to conduct the survey.
Date & time
Fall Sampling Dates: September 9-11 & 24-26, October 7-9 & 24-26. Spring 2023 dates and times to be announced (based on tides).
Why should students participate?
Volunteers will learn about horseshoe crab biology and population management using surveys and hands-on tagging methods.
Who can students contact for more information?
Emily Colson, emilycolson@ufl.edu
Website with more information:
https://myfwc.com/research/saltwater/crustaceans/horseshoe-crabs/citizen-watch/