Hello, my name is Barbara Muren, Network Manager at Snively Elementary in Winter Haven, FL. I am also a Teacher Consultant with the Florida Geographic Alliance. The purpose of this site is to provide information about the project and a place to communicate Live from the Field with the students at Snively Elementary. The subjects we will be focusing on are science, geography, math, music, and technology. From August 27th to Sept. 2nd, I will post pictures and keep a journal of the daily activities aboard the research sailboat, Silurian. This is all possible through a generous grant given by National Geographic Education Foundation in support of the Earthwatch Education Fellowship Program and a grant from the National Geographic Education Foundation to promote geographic literacy through field research, technology, and collaboration. Thank You, also, to Polk County School Board, my principal, Dr. Joann McKinney, and all the teachers and students at Snively Elementary for their ongoing support. Especially Ms. Lambeth, thank you for making it possible to video conference.
Where are the Hebrides?
The Hebrides are a group of inner and outer islands off the west coast of Scotland. This link www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk is a great description of the Hebrides and also includes a map. * Use this United Kingdom Map to find Tobermory, Isle of Mull, an inner island of the Hebridean Sea. It is our rendezvous point for this project. For a real cool view, use your Google Earth program and fly to Tobermory.
What specific Whales and Dolphins are we researching?
The focus of our research includes the harbor porpoise, minke whale, bottlenose dolphin, grey and common seals and basking sharks. * Check out: HWDT for great descriptions and images.
Why are we collecting data on the Hebridean cetaceans?
The information will identify particular areas of importance or "hotspots" for cetaceans. This will provide an effective conservation strategy, the conservation of marine environment. Results: economic and social benefits to the whole region and protected areas for the cetaceans. * Check out: HWDT
Is there a specific time to do this research?
This project has expeditions running from mid April till the end of September. Moreover, the community members of the area are thoroughly involved with the research. Even visitors can fill out an online form of their exciting sightings. * Check out: HWDT
Did you know...that in Scotland... a lake is called a 'loch' and a strait is called a 'firth' and a sound is called 'kyle'?

Tuesday, August 29, 2006

Day 2 -anchorage at Loch Spelve

Day 2 – anchorage at Loch Spelve. A few of us made a quick run to shore in a small rib, for a few last minute items. After being assured that all weather gear was not required it was typical that we all got absolutely drenched in a sudden summer downpour on our return to the Silurian. A humorous and very wet start to the first day of our adventures! The rest of us sure were pleased we’d decided just to hang out onboard in the dry as soon as we saw the state the others came back in!
It’s just amazing being out on the boat, so different from indoor and urban life.

I was determined to see mammalian life on my first watch today but was not lucky in that respect. There were enough sea birds to keep us entertained though (Gannets, Guillemots, Terns and Gulls) and the view was stunning. The weather is so changeable and can be completely different in every direction you look. Rainbows were appearing almost constantly, clinging low to the sea, and the cloud was low enough to touch the land in some places with sunbeams shining through. Having been relieved of duties for an hour I took the opportunity to climb up into the crow’s nest (with the reassurance of being tied on and winched by the skipper Peter in case I slipped). The view was incredible and the sense of peace was amazing. Soon I was rewarded with sightings of seals on a nearby island and soon after that a couple of animals swam by leaping out of the water as they went. Two of us were sure they were common dolphins but since we were very inexperienced the crew were unable to reliably record it as such and had to leave it as an unidentified dolphin sighting. They may have been harbour porpoises. It was a lot more scary coming down as the sea was a lot rougher by that point and I was very glad to be unable to fall to my doom. – Karen

Great day! Lots of learning about Hebridian sea mammals. More to come tomorrow, on bird life. We all got into our gear, very funny, as we all struggled with zips, lengths of trousers, life jackets! New experiences all round. The staff on the boat are fantastic, looking after us, making sure we don’t fall over board. Everyone is so patient with all our questions and mistakes. Looking forward to what tomorrow brings. – Lizzie

posted by barefootin' @ Tuesday, August 29, 2006   0 comments

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