Volunteering

By: A. H. Kopelman

Volunteering for CRESLI

We are all CRESLI volunteers!

CRESLI volunteers are an invaluable resource and participate in all of our activities, including marine mammal research expeditions and cruises, data collection and public education programs. Volunteers receive hands-on training and experience from CRESLI's research staff while participating in challenging and rewarding activities.

What do CRESLI whale watch volunteers do?

The whale watch volunteers are involved in a variety of tasks, including being spotters for whales, dolphins, sea turtles, pelagic birds, other marine organisms, garbage, etc.. We have volunteers stationed to look 360 degrees around the vessel, ostensibly for whales, but for just about anything of interest. Volunteers are also used to record data about a variety of oceanographic and biological parameters, under the direction of the naturalist. The volunteers play critical roles in our work. It's a challenge, but well worth it.

What do CRESLI seal walk/seal cruise volunteers do?

The seal walk volunteers are involved in a variety of tasks, including being spotters for seals, sea birds, and other forms of life along the walk. Volunteers will also help with crowd control (although we won't have large crowds) and will help distribute materials and answer questions about CRESLI and our work. As always, CRESLI volunteers play critical roles in our work. It's a challenge, but also well worth it.

Training workshops for volunteers

Any CRESLI volunteer wishing to work on CRESLI whale watches and/or CRESLI seal walks and cruises must attend training sessions annually. Whale watch training typically occurs in late May (before whale watch season). Seal walk/seal cruise training takes place in October (before seal season begin).
Training schedules will be posted here and on our calendar and all volunteers will be contacted.

2020 CRESLI Whale Watch Volunteer Training: May 16th and May 17th via Zoom:

Volunteers have been contacted. If you haven't been contacted, please use this link to reach out to Dr. Kopelman