He will specifically focus on data collected by the DeepWorker Submersibles as part of the SSE project, but also will bring in examples of other underwater monitoring methods. It gives researchers and resource managers the ability to quantify and visually display interrelationships among geographically-reference biological social, geochemical, physical, atmospheric and other variables. GIS can be used to greatly enhance science, geography and mathematics instruction for middle and high school students. The Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary has an extensive GIS database and is developing tools and instructional materials for teachers that will be presented in this part of the workshop. Within its boundaries lie rugged rocky shores, lush kelp forests and one of the deepest underwater canyons on the west coast.
Sanctuary habitats abound with life from tiny plankton to blue whales.
With its great diversity of life, the sanctuary is a national focus for marine research and education programs. Dr. Steve Webster, Monterey Bay Aquarium Senior Marine Biologist and Chair of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council will provide a guided virtual tour and interactive presentation about the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary that will include important species and habitats, human use and impacts, and resource protection strategies. The experts also will be available to respond to questions online and to generate conversation among the participants on their topic. Educators and scientists from participating organizations also will lead discussions about their organization or particular focus. Resource Center Participants will be able to take advantage of a database of resources of organizations related to SSE, NASA and NOAA and links to articles and pertinent web sites.