Course Description:   Find out how fun and easy it is to be a scientist. Class participants will learn about opportunities for citizens to collect data for scientific research. Projects from the Mote Marine Labs and Sarasota Bay and Estuary Program will be used as examples of how data collected by citizens is used to assess wildlife and the environment to help make conservation decisions. The class will create and engage in several Pelican Cove specific science projects including an iNaturalist Bioblitz, a Marine Debris Survey, a survey of Noise Levels and a Water Quality Study of the Harbor. Individuals will also learn how they can participate in research in medical diagnostics, music and transcription of historical documents. No previous science experience is necessary. 

Location:  Harbor Club

Dates/Times:  Fridays Feb 16 to Mar 22, from 9:30 am - 10:45 am.  

Instructor:  Dr. Ingrid Deckman

Dr. Ingrid Deckman is a lifelong scientist, who found her niche in Pelican Cove by joining the Bay, Water and Environment Committee. She earned a Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University and had a long career in the pharmaceutical industry as a research scientist and patent agent. Ingrid is currently participating in the Florida Master Naturalist Program developed by the University of Florida and is excited to share her love of science and teach others how to be an active participant in local conservation and environmental programs.