Who can participate?

We work with many different types of school groups (grades 6-12), informal environmental education and community organizations. The majority of our participants are high school teachers and students.

What is involved?

1. Training: Teachers or educators complete a training by the local LiMPETS coordinator.
2. Preparation: Students complete standard training activities prior to monitoring.
3. Monitoring: We recommend that you explore your monitoring site and practice the monitoring techniques at least once before monitoring begins. How frequently should you monitor? That’s up to you. Some participants monitor only once per year. Others monitor seasonally or monthly.
4. Data Entry: After data is collected, participants enter data online.
5. Analysis: Optionally, students research questions and use the online graphing tools to analyze results.
6. Communication: Sharing your results is important too! Some participants present posters at scientific meetings; others enter student film contests or write science blogs for the LiMPETS website.

Support

We provide staff support and a variety of resources to communities within a 50-mile radius of a National Marine Sanctuary office. Offices are located in San Francisco, Monterey, and Santa Barbara. Services include equipment loan, assistance in the classroom and the field, support with data entry and analysis, and more! Interested in participating in LiMPETS but located outside of our support region? Contact the LiMPETS office nearest you.

How do I get started?

• 1. Contact the LiMPETS coordinator in your area.
• 2. Learn about the program and protocols! Your LiMPETS coordinator will ask you to complete an Introductory Workshop before starting a LiMPETS program at your school or organization.
• 3. Choose an established monitoring site. Your LiMPETS Coordinator can help you.

 

Time commitment

A significant commitment by the teacher or adult leader is necessary to coordinate this project.