Marine Education and Research Society workshop on BC's whale species and seals, sea lions, dolphins, porpoises and otters too! Intensive training for those working (or hoping to work) as whale watch naturalists, kayak guides, park staff, or others interested in gaining a deeper knowledge of the natural history and conservation of BC's marine mammals. Bring sharp pencils and lots of notepaper! A certificate of participation will be provided to those who attend the full 3-day workshop. Aim of the workshop is to enable more people to inform and inspire marine mammal conservation.
Cost is $300 per person and, once registration opens, a spot is secured with at $200 deposit (non-refundable). If interested in participating in a MERS Workshop, please contact
info@mersociety.org and your name will be added to the list of those to be contacted once registration opens.
May 31
10 to 5:30 (2 x 15 minute breaks and a 1 hour lunch break)
- Introductions
- Marine Biodiversity of BC - from plankton to giants
- The Value of Being a Marine Mammal Naturalist #1 (includes tips on effective interpretive delivery)
- Classification of Marine Mammals
- Sea Otters - natural history and conservation concerns
- BC Killer Whale Populations - natural history and conservation concerns
June 1
9:00 to 5:30 (2 x 15 minute breaks and a 1 hour lunch break)
- Dolphins and Porpoises - natural history and conservation concerns
- Seals and Sea Lions - natural history and conservation concerns
- Minke and Fin Whales - natural history and conservation concerns
- Grey Whales - natural history and conservation concerns
- The Return of Giants - MERS research into Humpback Whales
Optional activity: Dinner - details will follow.
June 3
9:00 to 4:30
- Identifying Marine Mammals in the Field
- Man vs. Marine Mammal - summary of the complex human history with marine mammals
- Interpretation role play
- Feedback and presentation of certificates
