Marine Champions
As much as 50% of the region’s wildlife is found in the sea, but how many of us in the conservation world regularly come face to face with it? Our lack of familiarity with the marine environment affects our willingness to allocate time and resources to protect it – it’s a classic case of ‘out of sight, out of mind’. Our demands on the sea – from fishing to aggregate extraction – are adversely affecting marine wildlife, and there simply aren’t enough people out there championing the cause.
This series of events is designed to address this need by fostering a group of ‘Marine Champions’, within the Wildlife Trusts and partner organisations, in order to advocate marine conservation in the South East. The programme is aimed at conservation, community, awareness, membership and marketing staff….anyone in a position to raise the profile of marine wildlife and conservation through their work.
Marine Champions training days include:
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an introduction to marine wildlife and conservation issues
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exploration of rocky shore wildlife • investigating the plankton and sea bed wildlife with a trip on a trawler
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taking a closer look at marine life and developing ID skills in the lab
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an introduction to useful materials (book, guides, videos, presentation packs etc)
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preparation by each participant of a Marine Champion Action Plan
What participants have said about Marine Champions training days:
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‘A wonderful day’
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‘One of the most exciting field days I have experienced – has generated a lot of enthusiasm to continue with the ideas’
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‘Trainers excellent… very personable and inclusive’
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‘Very enjoyable course with a good balance between information and practical work’
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‘Now I feel a lot happier talking about the marine environment’
If you are interested in attending Marine Champions events please email us. Alternatively, if you are interested in hosting Marine Champions events to promote marine issues and conservation in your area we have put together a comprehensive pack to furnish you with all the ideas and resources to enable you. Email us for further details.
