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, September 05, 2006

Layout of Sightings for Aug.27 - Sept.2

posted by barefootin' @ Tuesday, September 05, 2006   0 comments

Tiger, sheepy, and I made it home

WOW, what an adventure it has been! By plane, bus, shuttle, train, car, ferry and my own two feet - we have seen practically all of Scotland, Orkney Island and the Hebrides!!! I'd like to first off say THANK YOU to Marcia McKinney for all of her help back at Snively. Without her many of the students would have missed out on this wonderful experience and for the valuable communication connection that she provided. Thank you to Dana Robertson, too, for her help with the Scotland travel bulletin wall and with the ITV program. Thank you to ALL the staff at Snively for giving your students the opportunity to virtually experience Scotland and the Cetaceans of the Hebrides. Thank you to HWDT for the opportunity to help with the conservation of this species and our environment. Thank you to Earthwatch Institute, the Earthwatch Education Fellowship Program, National Geographic Education Foundation, and the Florida Geographic Alliance to promote geographic literacy through field research, technology, and collaboration!!!!!!! Thank you to the Silurian crew - Peter, Gen, Laura, Hilda, Sarah, Louise, Lizzie, Karen, Jan, Tiger, sheepy, and friends. The spectacular cast in the Hebridean Islands. (Sighting - 100 meters) Oh yeah, Thank you to MOM and Barney for all of their loving support! CHEERS ALL! Love, Ms. Barb Muren

posted by barefootin' @ Tuesday, September 05, 2006   0 comments

Friday, September 01, 2006

Back Home - Tobermory

Day 6 - Back home in Tobermory.

Another day of extreme weather changes. Never know what to expect here, except the highly likely occurance of rain being thrown horizontally at your face for at least 10 minutes of every hour. Not many sightings today but that was made up for by the whales yesterday. It feels very strange to be leaving...glad to be going home and getting back to loved ones, but very sad to be leaving the boat, the crew and the team. Strangely discovered that I am now land sick. I adapted to life on the boat without too much trouble but when I am on dry land now after a week the whole ground seems to tilt and shift. Very strange.

A great day. Really exhiliarating. The wind and the rain were blowing hard with a sea force of 6 at one point. It felt fantastic to be outside with the elements.I went up the crow's nest today. Something new and very exciting.

posted by barefootin' @ Friday, September 01, 2006   0 comments

Porpoise

Picture by Laura Mandleberg

posted by barefootin' @ Friday, September 01, 2006   0 comments