Ecologist in Training Workshop Series - Environmental Field Methods

This workshop series is geared towards getting participants out into the field and part of our research and conservation work. It’s not just about learning what we do, but how and why! Fieldwork is at the heart of understanding ecosystems, training future scientists, and protecting our natural world. Participants can do so at their comfort level. Learning and doing through observing or getting into the hands-on part of science.

Discover your inner field ecologist. Get hands-on field experiences and connect with professionals in a welcoming, fun, and judgment-free environment.

Workshop Goals

• Understand and be able to articulate the importance of sound ecological management conservation tools, and land protection methods.

• Learn specific field research techniques and methodologies.

• Gain the skills to continue learning about the environment on your own.

Intended Audience

Geared towards anyone looking to gain deeper knowledge of studying the natural world. Ideal for those who want to take a more active role in conservation of Nantucket as a volunteer, or for those that are beginning a career in the environmental field. For those interested in learning particular techniques or just nature enthusiasts who want to know why we do what we do! (15+)

Cost: Free

Choose one workshop or do them all! All programs run 9am to noon unless otherwise noted.

Upcoming Workshops

Featured
Ecologist in Training: Turtle Trapping - Basics of Freshwater Turtle Sampling at LLNF
May 29
Ecologist in Training: Turtle Trapping - Basics of Freshwater Turtle Sampling at LLNF

In this workshop, we will explore the research and techniques used for studying freshwater turtle species and their habitats. Join LLNF Director of Research and Education and LLNF staff to learn about freshwater turtle species of Nantucket, their habitat preferences, and conservation efforts to support these populations.

Register here

Ecologist in Training: Tree Swallow Nest Box Surveys
Jun 17
Ecologist in Training: Tree Swallow Nest Box Surveys

In this workshop, we will explore the techniques for monitoring avian nest boxes, examine how tracking populations can help us conserve species, and learn about the threats that Tree Swallows face. Join LLNF staff to help check nest boxes and examine how changes in Tree Swallow nest success and phenology are tied to climate change impacts.

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Ecologist in Training: Vegetation Monitoring at LLNF
Jul 15
Ecologist in Training: Vegetation Monitoring at LLNF

This workshop will focus on the various ways we monitor, record, and otherwise track rare and unique plants. We will go over the tools and methods used to look for, identify, track and record various plant species. Some state-listed species grow in large numbers on the LLNF property, offering the chance for participants to locate, photograph, and GPS locations.

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Ecologist in Training: Water Quality Monitoring at the North Head of Long Pond
Aug 6
Ecologist in Training: Water Quality Monitoring at the North Head of Long Pond

In this workshop, we will explore the techniques for monitoring water quality, learn about the history of sampling on the North Head of Long Pond, and examine how baseline data informs us about changes or threats to the environment. Join LLNF staff to sample water quality at our field sites around the North Head of Long Pond and talk about how climate change and sea level rise may impact future water quality and flow.

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Ecologist in Training: Phenology Basics with Dr. Sarah Bois
Sep 16
Ecologist in Training: Phenology Basics with Dr. Sarah Bois

In this workshop, we will explore the techniques for monitoring plant phenology, learn about the history of a long-term LLNF research project, and examine how climate can affect some of our common, native species. What is phenology? It’s the study of nature’s timing. Join LLNF staff to record information from multiple plants and insects across the LLNF property. We’ll discuss how climate change, namely changes in temperature and precipitation, can affect when some of our plants and insects bloom, fruit, grow, and hatch.

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Ecologist in Training: Bird Banding - Studying Migratory Bird Species with LLNF
Oct 9
Ecologist in Training: Bird Banding - Studying Migratory Bird Species with LLNF

In this workshop, we will explore the techniques used in professional bird banding, learn about the significance of long-term bird research, and examine how banding data contributes to conservation efforts. Unlike our typical banding sessions, this workshop will give you the chance to experience all aspects of bird banding firsthand, with a technical approach to each step in the process.

Register here