Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Preserved Embassy Foundation
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
February 14th was celebrated as a day for all those in love with the sea and dolphins. As part of the Living Black Sea project, a training session titled "Helping Black Sea Dolphins and Citizen Science" was held.
Citizen science is a highly relevant topic, as it transforms volunteer observations into scientific data. Scientists need information on dolphin strandings to monitor population changes, analyze the causes of mortality, and develop conservation measures for Black Sea cetaceans.
The theoretical part of the training was devoted to topics of cetacean biology, the main threats associated with tides, marine pollution, diseases, injuries, and methods of safe basic care for injured mammals.
Having mastered the theory, the volunteers moved to the seashore and began field (sea) practice. On shore, the volunteers practiced methods of supporting and safely assisting cetaceans in the water, learned basic veterinary procedures, and how to collect the necessary samples to diagnose the dolphins' condition.
The training participants highly appreciated the knowledge they gained and the practical benefits of the event:
Zhanna Rybak, "Nets, Sieve, Shovel":
"…the whole picture of the rescue finally came together in my head, because before this training, there were only fragmentary elements. As a result of the training, the correct algorithm for rescuing cetaceans was solidified."
Zhanna Lvova, Nadezhda Rashkovskaya, "Saving the Sea":
"This was the most intense and visual learning experience. Thank you so much for such a valuable experience!"
Ekaterina Shlyapina, "Pure Life":
"The theory is fascinating, without the fluff, but with real facts, and then immediately on-shore practice. The instructors were a true joy: they showed and explained everything, and answered all my questions. Honestly, I wouldn't want to encounter such situations, but reality shows a picture where anything can happen, so this training is invaluable!"
Oleg Tretyakov, a JTI Russia volunteer, spent the day at a training session with his wife, turning Valentine's Day into an opportunity to contribute to a common cause. He shared his emotions with his colleagues:
"It's nice to know that behind the lecture's impressions lies real help, and our company is helping the Black Sea stay 'Alive.'"
The event was organized as part of the large-scale "Living Black Sea" program. This three-year, comprehensive project is being implemented by the Zapovednoye Posledstvo Foundation in partnership with JTI Russia. The Delfa Dolphin Rescue Center served as a key partner in conducting the training.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.