Volume 58
Queen Conch Outreach Initiatives: An Update from the Conch Heritage Network
Authors
Shawl, A.L. Download PDF Open PDF in BrowserOther Information
Date: November, 2005
Pages: 513
Event: Proceedings of the Fifty Eighth Annual Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute
City: San Andres
Country: Colombia
Abstract
Marine conservation education is an important fisheries management tool throughout the world. The Conch Heritage Network (CHN), established in 2001, is an international information center covering the research and conservation initiatives for queen conch, Strombus gigas. Now in the second year, the CHN’s “Conch in the Classroom” curriculum is being used throughout the country and the Caribbean region in marine science and biology classes. To ensure the authenticity and effectiveness of this outreach program, a survey is currently being conducted with teachers who have incorporated the queen conch lesson plans and activities into their classroom. This feedback will enable the CHN to revise activities, troubleshoot aquarium problems, and design grade-specific lessons plans. In addition, the “A Conch’s Life Story” video is being updated with new footage, an English and Spanish narration, and will be available on both VHS and DVD. The CHN is committed to disseminating educational materials to support the conservation of the queen conch.