The Mobile Jaycees today continued their support of the marine sciences department at the University of South Alabama.
The Jaycees, sponsors of the annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, presented a check for $10,000 to support research by USA’s marine sciences graduate students. The Jaycees also awarded three, $500 scholarships to be used to further support the students. The University currently enrolls 51 marine sciences graduate students; 17 are working toward a Ph.D., and 34 are in the master’s degree program.
“The rodeo is about fishing and the excitement of the big catch, but it’s equally about conservation and studying marine biology so that the rodeo will continue for future generations,” Dr. Bob Shipp, USA marine sciences professor and chairman and ADSFR judge, said. “As a sporting event, it can’t be beat,” he added, “but it is also an incredibly valuable research opportunity.” The ADSFR is the biggest and oldest fishing rodeo in the country.
Among the spectators and workers at the July 19-21 rodeo will be more than a dozen USA marine sciences students working behind the scenes, helping to dissect the fish and prepare the skeletal remains for the many interested requests they get from international marine researchers. Marine scientists from France, Germany and the University of Massachusetts will also be on hand. “This is incredible exposure for the students,” Shipp said.
“Marine research is a vital part of keeping our coastal waters filled with the fish that competitors love to catch,” Brad McDaniel, ADSFR president, said. “The University plays a big role in keeping the fish population and the waters in good shape.” To date, the Jaycees have donated more than $40,000 to the USA marine sciences program.
USA is also the lead university in the Alabama Center for Estuarine Studies, which is funded by the Environmental Protection Agency and is dedicated to protecting and preserving the delicate estuary environment.
“We have a wonderful natural resource right in our backyard,” Shipp noted, “and we’re all working together to keep it safe and healthy.”
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