Program Length: 1 Season (about 3 months)

Sponsor: NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)

Location: Alaska (different locations)

Admissions Requirements: Long-term visitor/resident of Alaska; minors must be accompanied by a parent

Admissions Deadline: Virtual orientations held in March and August; to join, attend or watch an orientation to receive further information.

Highlight: The Alaska Beluga Monitoring Program (AKMBP) is a citizen science initiative that aims to foster collaboration among local communities and organizations as well as a safer environment for endangered beluga whales through monitoring and volunteering. If you reside in Alaska and you’re passionate about science, the environment, or making a difference, then this is the opportunity for you! You can be trained to be a citizen volunteer monitor by scientists and researchers. You can participate in real shore-based monitoring of beluga whales, which not only provides an enriching personal experience, but also valuable data that will ultimately make the environment safer for sea creatures. By participating in this program, you can actually contribute to beluga research, conservation, and management with efforts while building connections with the local community. The best part is that it is open to student’s of all ages. In short, this is an excellent opportunity and is definitely worth checking out! For more information, check out the site’s resources page.

Cost: None