Seals, sand and sunshine: A perfect ending

What a fantastic way to end a wonderful experience! We learned, and practiced, various mammal surveying techniques such as direct observation, field sign and trapping. We collected data on the trapped animals and learned how to safely handle small mammals. We leaned how to mathematically calculate and estimate animal densities using the data we collected. We listened to lectures about climate changeability, Nova Scotia geology and Nova Scotia mammals. We had the opportunity to learn from other teachers from across the United States and hear about their teaching techniques, working conditions and their students. We had a awesome insight into what the life of a field research scientist is like. And, we were able to communicate with our students and our communities back home, enabling them to share our experiences.

I'd like to thank Earthwatch for providing the opportunities for ordinary people to voluntarily make a difference on our planet. Thank you Wells Fargo for providing the funding which allows expeditions like this to occur; the Earth is a better place because you care. And a big thanks to the principal investigators, Drs. Chris Newman and Christina Buesching. Your hospitality was unbelievable, your knowledge was invaluable and your commitment to scientific research and the welfare of our planet and its inhabitants was evident from the start. And, finally, thank you to team 1. What a wonderful group of people. All of you make me proud to be a teacher and I'd feel priviledged to have my children in any of your classes.

We spent most of the time in Kejimkujik National Park seashore adjunct. This is definitely a place I would visit again!! Lots of rocks, sandy beaches and, seals. It was really fun to watch the seals sitting on the rocks and swimming in the water. The local fishermen blame the seals for declining fisheries and wrecking lobster traps and will shoot any seal they see. This is a perfect example of balancing the use of resources (fisheries) with the conservation of animal species. We also talked about survival situations and learned how to set a trap to catch food in a survival situation. After dinner, we shared some educational lessons and exchanged gifts representing our region.

Nova Scotia fact of the day: this is a great place to visit. Think of it as Minnesota with an ocean! I'd love to return here sometime and share my experience with my family.