I found out that Dr. Clare Steele and I were awarded the WRPI-USDA Grant for the upcoming semester! The goals of the USDA and regional Watershed Resources and Policy Management is to promote students in real-scientific work. I am really excited to be able to continue the research we are doing on Microplastics in the Sandy Beach ecosystem and specifically its effects on Sand Crabs.
Over the break I am finally able to catch up on all my dissections and sand processing. Currently I have gathered over 200 sand crabs from up and down the coast of California to test for microplastics as well as sand samples from each location. This will be a busy winter break!
Patrick, Micheala and I arrived just as the sun was coming up to a great event at Ledbetter Beach in Santa Barbara! This ‘keiki’ surf contest was hosted by Surf Happens which is a local surf school in Santa Barbara dedicated to teaching kids the art of surfing with proper education, etiquette and history of the sport. The group promotes the high five initiative where everyone that hits the beach picks up 5 pieces of trash before they enjoy the waves.
This weekend was special because Pro Surfer Lakey Peterson was there to host the event and had a special clinic session for Teddy Bear families with kids that have cancer. It was pretty cool to watch parents and kids out there having fun in the waves with a pro surfer!
More sand crab samples arrived last night from friends in Northern California! I am excited to see what I find in the different sample locations!
