Since 2024, several MSSEP students have volunteered as scientists aboard NOAA’s Ecosystem Monitoring (EcoMon) cruises on the Henry B. Bigelow. EcoMon surveys are carried out at 120 randomly chosen stations and 35 fixed stations throughout the continental shelf and slope of the northeastern United States. At each station, MSSEP students collected and preserved plankton, larval fish, and eggs captured by bongo nets. These samples were used to calculate estimates of overall fish biodiversity and spawning stock biomass. Students also measured and preserved chlorophyll and nutrients captured at different depths using a CTD Rosette. To hear more about exciting student-based research opportunities in MSSEP, please reach out to Department Chair Heather Burton (hburton@maritime.edu).