Apr 7, 2015

New research suggests forage fish populations negatively impacted by fisheries

A new study by Tim Essington, Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, shows for the first time that fishing likely worsens population collapses in several species of forage fish, including herring, anchovies, and sardines. Some of the largest fisheries in the world target these species, which are also a key food source for larger marine animals like salmon, tuna, seabirds, and whales. Previously, it wasn’t known whether population collapses and other population shifts in forage fish were naturally-occurring or related to fishing.

Volunteer scientists contribute up to $2.5 billion in yearly efforts for biodiversity research

COASST volunteers counting marine debris

Have you ever wanted to don your sleuthing cap and help scientists gather clues about how our world works? A recent study indicates that now, more than ever, citizens are doing just that: collecting data for all types of projects in their spare time, all in the name of science. From counting birds and identifying galaxies to measuring different bacteria in our hot water heaters, citizen scientists are providing a critical service that has a huge economic value…$2.5 billion, to be exact.

UW, NASA team up to discover if satellites accurately gauge precipitation

Scientists from the College of the Environment are partnering with NASA and the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency to find out if a constellation of precipitation-measuring satellites collects accurate data. The initiative, called OLYMPEX, aims to calibrate and validate rain and snowfall data collected by the Global Precipitation Measurement (GSM). Focusing their efforts on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, the soggiest place in the continental United States and a perfect laboratory for precipitation-related research, the scientists will amass data through a variety of ground- and air-based approaches.

Beyond ecology: Invasive species affect our culture and economy too

Swing, batter! On a residential street in Anywhere, U.S.A., a colony of invasive emerald ash borers swarms inconspicuously on the periphery. Their sights are set on a row of lush, mature ash trees that line the quiet street. These trees have seen their community through World War II and the Civil Rights Movement, but meeting the ash borers will mark their final stand.

Apply by April 17: College of the Environment Scholarships

Students applying their classroom skills in the field (photo: UW Archives)

Student scholarships offered through the College of the Environment for the 2015-2016 academic school year are now open! Most importantly, note that all scholarship application materials are due by Friday, April 17, 2015. Available scholarships include Clarence H. Campbell Endowed Lauren Donaldson Scholarship, College of the Environment Scholarship, Del Rio Environmental Studies Scholarship, Nancy Wilcox Scholarship, and the Yakama Nation Endowed Fund for Student Support.