artificial reef monitoring INTERNSHIP
Location: Baton Rouge, LA
Supervisor: Craig Gothreaux
Target University:Louisiana State University
Background: The Louisiana Artificial Reef Program has become well established since its inception in 1986 and adoption of the Louisiana Artificial Reef Plan in 1987. The success and achievements offshore (i.e., Rigs-to-Reefs) have allowed the development of nearshore and inshore artificial reefs throughout Louisiana’s coastal waters. Artificial reefs require deployment monitoringto assure compliance with permit conditions and other applicableregulations (i.e., depth requirements).Additionally, biological monitoring is used to assess reef performance to confirm that the goals and objectives of the reef design arebeing achieved. The strategies for biological monitoring of artificial reef sites are varied based on reef structure, materials, design, and location. Information obtained throughmonitoring can improve the management of existing reefs, as well as guide the development of future reef enhancement projects.Performance monitoring is not a requirement listed in most permits for artificial reef development; however, evaluating a reef’s performance can provide valuable information to determine whether areef is meeting the goals and objectives for which it was built. Monitoring the physical, biological, andsocioeconomic aspects of artificial reef performance can inform future reef management and development. There are a variety of monitoring efforts that are being undertaken on Louisiana’s artificial reefs, and the intern would assist with these efforts.
Project Scope: The student intern will contribute to theartificial reef monitoring efforts in Louisiana. Specific project details will be developed as part of the internship, and could possibly include specific monitoring of one reef site (comparing different tools and techniques), the application of one technique across multiple reef sites, or even the comparison of different reef materials or designs. Monitoring tools include, but are not limited to, benthic surveys, trap sampling, andoffshore ROV video analysis. Depending on the interest of the candidate(s), work may involve reef sampling efforts, analysis of existing data sets, development of socioeconomic surveys, or a combination thereof.
Timing: Summer 2018 (May 14 – August 10, 2018)– application deadline of March 17, 2018
Housing: There is office space available at LDWF Headquarters, and field work logistics would be coordinated by LDWF staff as needed.
Note: This would be a paid internship at the rate of $10/hour, with the opportunity to receive course credits through LSU RNR. Up to two candidates may be selected for this position. The student will be working together with a team of LDWF staff undertaking the project.
Please submit resumes to:
Craig Gothreaux
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
2000 Quail Drive, Room 348
Baton Rouge, LA 70808