DMC to host talk about citizen science, estuarine monitoring

To understand and promote the ecological health of Maine’s estuaries and coastal watersheds, residents organized the Maine Coastal Observing Alliance (MCOA).

Alliance leaders Kathleen Thornton and Sarah Gladu will share success stories and findings during their talk titled “Working together for Maine’s Estuaries: Citizen Science Groups Collaborate with University of Maine Scientists” at 10:30 a.m. Aug. 3 in Brooke Hall at the Darling Marine Center.

The MCOA comprises 10 citizen science monitoring groups that monitor water quality indicators in coastal and estuarine waters. Their research provides an assessment of water quality in individual estuaries as well as insights into coastwide trends.

Thornton is a research specialist at the DMC. Gladu, who chairs MCOA, also is education and environmental monitoring director for the Damariscotta River Association.

This talk is part of the DMC’s science seminar series that provides opportunities to discuss current marine research. Visit the DMC website to preregister and to view upcoming featured speakers and topics. For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, call 207.563.3146.