Finding Marine Biology Volunteer Opportunities
Using Free Time to Save the Ocean and Study the Sea in the US
Aug 17, 2009
Most marine biology volunteer opportunities advertised online involve traveling to exotic places to observe sea turtles and dolphins. While that would doubtless be an unforgettable experience, not everyone has the time or money to volunteer so far from home. Fortunately, there are still plenty of ways to become a marine biology volunteer. Studying the ocean and working to conserve its resources is a great way to prepare for a marine biology career – it’s also an excellent way to be a conscientious citizen.
Volunteer at the Local Aquarium
Many public aquariums offer a diverse array of volunteer opportunities. Qualifications and time requirements will differ based on the program; and filling out an application will likely be necessary. Aquariums require marine biology volunteers to educate visitors about exhibits, to clean the tanks, to feed the animals, and to organize programs. Places such as the Seattle Aquarium and Tennessee Aquarium sometimes offer volunteer programs for high school students. Volunteering at places like these is a great way to learn more about marine biology.
Volunteer with the Government
Future marine biologists and those who just enjoy new experiences would do well to volunteer with the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Opportunities vary by location and season but can include working in labs, monitoring water quality, organizing fundraisers, and educating the public. Marine biology volunteer opportunities can be found organized by State with contact information listed within program descriptions by going to the organizations' websites.
Be a Virtual Marine Biology Volunteer
It’s possible to be a marine biology volunteer even without an ocean or aquarium nearby. Try contacting organizations with an online presence and see if they have any openings for a virtual volunteer. Websites such as MarineBio sometimes look for volunteers to help add marine biology content to their websites and to check the accuracy of their claims. Another easy way to save the oceans through the Internet is by emailing elected officials such as members of Congress, encouraging them to pass legislation that protects marine resources. Many environmental organizations including the WWF and the Ocean Conservancy list current legislation with sample letters.
Start a Local Ocean Conservation Group
For those who can’t find a marine biology volunteer opportunity nearby it may be easier to create them. It’s easy to start a group and find others with similar interests by using Internet networking sites such as Meetup or posting flyers at the local library. Decide on goals such as community education or political action – then go pursue them.
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