2010 Invasive Species Field Course for Teachers

8th Annual Invasive Species Field CourseJuly 12-14, 2010 Join Inland Seas Education Association (ISEA) for the Eighth Annual Invasive Species Field Course in Grand Traverse Bay! The Invasive Species Field Course has been developed to teach educators and environmental professionals about invasive species in the Great Lakes region, and to prepare them to effectively teach their students, colleagues, and volunteers about invasive species. Emphasis will be on aquatic invasive species and the concept of “prevention through education.” The 3-day Invasive Species Field Course will provide a unique combination of professional seminars at Northwestern Michigan College’s Water Studies Institute and hands-on field sampling aboard ISEA’s 77-foot schooner Inland Seas. On shore, participants will learn about current research related to aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes, initiatives to help reduce the introduction and spread of new invasive species, and ways to incorporate invasive species concepts into classroom teaching. On the schooner Inland Seas in Grand Traverse Bay, participants will learn and practice sampling techniques, methods for analyzing environmental samples, and experimental design for invasive species research projects. Course participants will interact with a guest faculty of scientists, regulators, mariners, and educators with a common interest in this critical issue. Selected participants for the Invasive Species Field Course will participate free of charge, and receive complimentary meals and lodging in the Grand Traverse Bay area. A participant stipend and project mini grants will be available. One graduate credit from Central Michigan University and three SB-CEU credits are avialable for this program at no additional cost. For more information on becoming a participant in or faculty member of the Eighth Annual Invasive Species Field Course, please contact ISEA Education Director Christine Crissman by e-mail or call the ISEA office at 231-271-3077. To apply, fill out and return the application by June 14, 2010.