Elkhorn Slough Elasmobranch Project
Limited Entry Resident student enrollments;
University of California at Santa Cruz, Monterey Bay Peninsula College, Cabrillo Colleges.

Field Course 2008

The PSRF offers a summer field course beginning in May of each year. This project hopes to expand our understanding of elasmobranch communities for the purpose of education and conservation. Because they are important predators, elasmobranchs play a vital role in the health of the entire Elkhorn Slough community. While much has been learned in recent years, many questions remain to be answered about these amazing creatures.

The general focus and sample template of our study is to study the effect of tidal velocity and temperature on estuarine elasmobranch assemblages and abundances within the ESNERR and to periodically sample at various points along the main channel and non reserve tributaries and canals, especially on the relatively unexplored North shore of the slough. There are many areas of the slough that remain relatively unexplored in terms of rigorous or in depth sampling or study.

Enrolled volunteers will receive instruction in the basics of field craft, deployment capture equipment, tagging and telemetry and animal safety, transport and care. Training and operations include the collection, handling, sampling, tagging and releasing of estuarine sharks and rays within the Elkhorn Slough and adjoining research reserve.

Estuarine elasmobranchs are captured, tagged and released/tracked as part of an ongoing population and movement study being conducted within the Elkhorn Slough in Moss Landing, California. Researchers learn to work with nets from small boats and kayaks or from shore.

Requirements: Wetsuit and swimming ability is required. No prior experience needed, must be at least 18 and fit.

Deadline for course registration is May 15^th for first session and June 15^th for second session. Call for appointment, (831) 459-9346 or e-mail at psrf@pelagic.org .