This 1-day training will demonstrate the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s methods for conducting beach surveys and processing samples for Surf Smelt and Sand Lance spawn.  The training will include a classroom component with a presentation and hands-on demonstration of lab techniques. It will also include a field component with a demonstration and time to practice field collection and sample processing. The training is specifically designed for biologists who need to conduct forage fish surveys for regulatory purposes, such as to comply with the conditions of a WDFW, DNR, or ACoE permit. At the conclusion of training, participants will have knowledge of forage fish survey techniques and reporting requirements.

(6 AICP CM Credits/CEP Points)

Lunch is provided.

Instructor:  Hannah Faulkner is a nearshore biologist with the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife Habitat Science Team. Her current research interests include monitoring effects of shoreline modification on nearshore habitat, identifying and assessing the distribution and characteristics of forage fish spawning habitat, assessing new methods of detecting forage fish spawn, monitoring the implementation of marine bulkhead HPA permits, and exploring new survey methods and data processing techniques using unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).