Mote scientists awarded Sarasota Bay Estuary Program grants

Mote Marine Laboratory scientists Dr. Emily Hall and Dr. Jordon Beckler were recently awarded Sarasota Bay Estuary Bay Partners grants.

The Mote scientists received two out of nine awards given in 2016. By promoting environmental education, awareness, community involvement and stewardship the grants will help improve the overall quality of the Sarasota Bay and its tributaries.

Hall, who is also an adjunct professor at Ringling College of Art and Design, received a $1,500 grant to build upon an existing partnership with Ringling College to create new materials about the impacts of climate change and ocean acidification on the bay. The existing partnership established “The Art of Marine Science,” a program intertwining Ringling students’ creativity in the translation of Mote research to the public.

In September, Hall will work with Ringling College students to create the next round of science-based outreach art in the Ecology of Water class. The winning projects will be on display where the community can learn more about environmental issues. Past projects included comic books, t-shirts, children’s books and a video game.

Beckler also received a $1,500 grant, and his will go toward Mote’s new Ocean Technology Club that is launching this fall. Through the club, Mote Marine researchers will mentor Sarasota and Manatee county high school students and teachers in learning and applying science and technology skills.

The club will be led by Mote’s Ocean Technology Research Program and Mote’s education programs. Collaborators include the University of Hawaii, the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division and the Gulf of Mexico Coastal Ocean Observing System.

Those participating in the club will explore oceanography, physics, chemistry, electronic circuitry and computer programming through real-world examples and applications. The club is accepting applications through Aug.7 and applications can be found on the aquarium’s website.