The Department of Fisheries Oceanography is hosting Tasha O’Hara, Research Biologist at the Coonamessett Farm Foundation, for a seminar on “Addressing dynamic environmental challenges through cooperation and innovation”. This seminar will take place April 9th from 3-4 in SMAST East 101-103, but a Zoom option is available as well! 

 

Abstract:

Benthic surveying is crucial for understanding marine ecosystems and developing sustainable resource management strategies. While traditional sampling methods provide valuable biological data, they often face challenges like gear escapement and overfilling. To overcome these limitations and address emerging environmental concerns, innovative, non-extractive surveying tools are increasingly necessary. The HabCam v3 Habitat Mapping Camera system integrates imaging and environmental sensor data to capture real-time information, enabling marine assessments without disturbing fragile ecosystems. This non-invasive technology plays a key role in cooperative research efforts, including Atlantic sea scallop (Placopecten magellanicus) stock assessments and benthic ecosystem surveys in offshore wind sites across New England waters. By leveraging advanced technologies on commercial platforms, researchers, industry members, and fishing communities can strengthen collaboration and build trust in shared scientific endeavors. This talk will highlight HabCam’s optical work conducted by CFF during annual stock assessments and provide an overview of ongoing offshore wind cooperative research and its benefits.