Amigos de Bolsa Chica’s FLOW (Follow and Learn about the Ocean and Wetlands) PRogram was developed in partnership with the Bolsa Chica State Beach. The program has two parts. The first part consists of Citizen Scientists who meet each Friday to collect water samples from various places at Bolsa Chica, perform limited analysis, and send samples to the California Department of Public Health. The second part consists of the Citizen Scientists sharing their knowledge with visiting classes of middle, high school and community college students. This is a unique hands-on learning opportunity for students to experience a coastal wetland ecosystem through its most fundamental elements: water quality and plankton. FLOW demonstrates how humans are connected to the unique rhythms of nature at Bolsa Chica Wetlands and the Bolsa Chica State Beach.
By reaching out to primarily underserved, multicultural students, many from inland areas, FLOW teaches students to collect water and plankton samples using the same field equipment and methods used by scientists. Through chemistry and microscopy lessons, students receive hands-on training on how to analyze the contents of ocean and wetland water samples. This offers students a chance to examine an array of water quality related topics such as the effects of urban runoff on the watershed and the potential impacts of climate change on the marine food web. Many have had little or no experience in an ocean or wetland environment, and for many, actually using scientific tools and techniques to gain information that will be used is a unique experience. For some, this experience will be a gateway to further education and careers in marine science.
The Program Manager’s goals are to ensure Amigos de Bolsa Chica’s sustained ability to conduct water quality testing and outreach to students. Recruiting, training and retaining FLOW Citizen Scientists are the most critical aspects for the continued success of the FLOW program. FLOW can then continue to provide students with a direct connection to wetland and ocean ecosystems, expand their knowledge of the Earth’s environment, and put the protection of these precious ocean and wetland ecosystems in their hands.
For the position responsibilities, experience needed, and application details, please download the position announcement download the position announcement.