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2010 Online Registration Information2010 Conference Home

NAME is excited to offer online registration and payment for the 2010 Annual Conference! Click on the link below to fill out and submit your registration form. Once you have submitted your registration, click on the second link to open the payment window and use the information below to choose your registration package, pre-conference workshop, field trip, and additional tickets and submit your payment online using a credit card or PayPal account.

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Pre-Conference Workshops & Field Trips

NAME hopes to serve a wider, more diverse marine and aquatic educator audience by offering an exciting set of pre-conference workshops at this conference. All workshops will be held on Wednesday, July 7, 2010 at the times posted below and will be held at the Florence Events Center in Florence, OR. A continental breakfast, full hot buffet lunch, all instruction, and related materials are included in the price for the workshop selected. Additionally, if you are already a NAME member, or you sign up for the entire conference at the non-member rate, you get a discount on workshops A, B, and C. We encourage you to do just that – and join our marine/aquatic family for one of the finest learning experiences of your life! These workshops have minimum and maximum attendance numbers so register as early as possible to take advantage of the opportunities. Use the conference registration form even if you aren’t attending the NAME conference. Non-Member prices include membership. There are five workshops to choose from:

A. Communicating Ocean Sciences with Informal Audiences: guided questioning as a strategy for facilitating learning

Suggested Audience: Anyone who works with visitors to the coast whether school groups, adult peer groups on field trips, or casual visitors to museums, zoos, aquariums, parks, or natural areas.

Time: 8:30 – 3:30 • Cost: Members $38 / Non-Members $56

Participants in this workshop will explore their own understandings of learning and communication and explore some techniques for facilitating free-choice learning of marine and aquatic science concepts with any audience. In addition to discussing learning cycles and how to use them to promote life-long learning and conservation awareness, we will explore some tools for guided questioning that will 1) help learners connect new experiences to their prior knowledge, 2) encourage more directed observation and interaction with environments and organisms, 3) help us understand “if they got it,” and 4) help learners reflect on their experiences after they leave our programs.

Presenter/Facilitator: Shawn Rowe, Ph.D., Marine Education and Learning Specialist, Oregon Sea Grant, Oregon State University, Corvallis. (541-867-0190 or shawn.rowe@oregonstate.edu)

B. Connecting Young Children to Nature

Suggested Audience: Formal and non-formal Early Childhood Educators

Time: 8:30 – 3:30 • Cost: Members $61 / Non-members $79

Setting our young children up with active thinking strategies can begin at an early age through experiential hands-on activities and inquiry based discussions that help children explore their environment and themselves. Participants will:

  • Engage in exploratory learning.
  • Review developmentally appropriate practices and expectations for the early learner.
  • Discuss early childhood inquiry and practice open-ended questions.
  • Develop an understanding of the Activity Guides(s) and the various features.
  • Participants will receive the NEW early childhood activity guides (a $35 value) Growing up WILD!  Exploring nature with Children (http://www.projectwild.org/GrowingUpWILD.htm) Project Learning Tree: Environmental Experiences for Early Childhood (http://www.plt.org/cms/pages/21_21_259.html)

Presenter/Facilitator: LeeAnn Mikkelson, Oregon Natural Resources Education Program (ONREP), Oregon State University, Corvallis (541-737-9121 or leeann.mikkelson@oregonstate.edu)

C.  Linking Science and Literacy Naturally

Suggested Audience: K-8 Teachers and Informal Educators

Time: 9:00 – 3:30 • Cost: Members $78 / Non-members $96

Using sample natural resource lessons (both in the classroom and in the field) participants will have the opportunity to experience techniques and strategies that will enable them to support and enhance science instruction by incorporating literacy skills.  Activities will include a variety of approaches for teaching and learning that link science and oral discourse, science and writing, and science and reading as well as strategies for using science instruction to help English Language Learners.  Science trade books that focus on Global Warming and Global Climate Change topics will be used as examples for integrating sustainability of natural resources into science lessons.  Participants will also have the opportunity to read and review a sample of climate change related books at the K-8 level.

Presenters/Facilitators: Susan McWilliams, Educator, Bend, OR (541-419-2357 or smcw@bendcable.com)  and Adele Schepige, Western Oregon University, Monmouth, OR  (503-838-8485 or schepia@wou.edu)

D. Using the Ocean Curriculum to Teach STEM

Suggested Audience: Formal and informal educators who want to learn about new resources and opportunties to connect oceans into their  STEM curriculum, and relate marine content to Oregon’s new science standards.

Time: 8:30 – 4:30 • Cost: Free

This workshop offers novel ways to instruct STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) using ocean and marine science content. We will provide new, hands-on learning resources that incorporate relevant, real-world and inquiry-based learning applications. In addition, we will incorporate cutting-edge research that takes advantage of such tools as ocean observing and visualization systems. Topics that will be covered include an overview of ocean literacy initiatives taking place at the national, regional and state levels, as well as a review of Ocean Literacy Principles and Oregon’s new State Science Standards. In addition, we will pilot two lesson plans and host a scientist presentation examining the ‘State of Oregon’s Ocean.’  Come prepared to share your favorite ocean science resources and learn about new resources.

Presenters/Facilitators: Nancee Hunter, Oregon Sea Grant, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR (541-867-0357 or nancee.hunter@oregonstate.edu), Kerry Carlin-Morgan, Oregon Coast Aquarium, Newport, OR.(541-867-3474 X5311 or Kerry.Morgan@aquarium.org), and Amy Sprenger, NANOOS Education & Outreach Specialist, U. of Washington Applied Physics Lab, Seattle, WA. asprenger@apl.washington.edu)

Sponsored by NANOOS.

E. Oregon Master Naturalist Program: Coast Region Sandy Beaches and Dunes Pilot *FULL*

Audience: Intended for people interested in becoming Oregon Master Naturalists, particularly those would like to learn more about the Oregon Coast Ecoregion

Time: 11:00 – 4:00 • Cost: Free

Interested in learning more about Oregon’s coast and ocean? Want to be in on the development of a brand new naturalist program? Join COSEE-Pacific Partnerships for the pilot of the Sandy Beaches and Dunes Unit that will give you a first peek at the new Oregon Master Naturalist Program.   The workshop will focus on the physical and biological parameters of sandy beaches and dunes and the human influences on this habitat, particularly the introduction of European beach grass.   The workshop includes a 2-hour field trip to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.  Topics to be covered include:  Sand; Waves and wave energy; Influences of global climate change; Dune types, formation, and natural communities; Influences of introduced beach grass; Surf zone and sand dwelling organisms and food webs; Snowy Plover biology and protection; and the Oregon Beach Law.

Presenters/Facilitators: Dr. Stewart Schultz, Professor of Biology, University of Zadar,  Croatia and Summer Term Instructor, Oregon Institute of Marine Biology, University of Oregon, Charleston, OR,  Coral Gehrke, COSEE-Pacific Partnerships, Oregon Institute of Marine Biology, University of Oregon, Charleston, OR  (541-888-2581 x236 or cgehrke@uoregon.edu)

Sponsored by COSEE-Pacific Partnerships.

Field TripsBack to Top

1. South Slough NERR Paddle Exploration

10 am – 5:30 pm • Minimum = 8 participants / Maximum = 16 participants
$50/participant (Children riding in middle $25)

Join South Slough’s Education Coordinator, Tom Gaskill, for an interpretive paddle of the Winchester Arm of the estuary.  South Slough was the first National Estuarine Research Reserve and offers sanctuary to wildlife while promoting better understanding of estuaries through research, education and stewardship.  Travel with the tide as you float alongside salt marshes and salmon streams, while learning about one of the richest places on earth. This trip will also visit the recently updated South Slough Interpretive Center and trails. Canoes, PFDs, and paddles will be provided.

2. Sea Lion Caves & Cape Perpetua

10 am – 5:30 pm • Minimum = 10 / Maximum = 28
$25/participant

Enjoy a guided tour of Florence’s famous Sea Lion Caves, home for wild sea lions and a variety of sea birds.  This is the world’s largest sea cave. After a morning with the sea lions, have lunch and explore Cape Perpetua Scenic Area.  At Cape Perpetua the land meets the sea in a majestic clash of towering trees, thundering waves and imposing headlands. Hike down to the tidepools and explore the world revealed by low tide.

3. Hatfield Marine Science Center & Marine Discovery Tours

10 am – 5:30 pm • Minimum = 5 / Maximum = 25
$50/participant 

In this hands-on field trip, participants will visit the Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC) where they will be given a behind the scenes tour of the Wecoma , one of Oregon State University’s Research Vessels,  and the HMSC Visitor Center. In addition to a picnic lunch on the Yaquina Bay estuary, participants will have time to explore different areas of the estuary through a fun, innovative Quest. Afterwards, participants will travel to Newport’s working bay front to view sea lions and check in at Marine Discovery Tours.  Once on board the Discovery, you will receive a narrated ocean and bay cruise with naturalist guides on hand to help you find and view sea life.  The Discovery is equipped with the latest navigation and research technology allowing for a hands-on experience of the estuary or ocean.  You’ll enjoy interactive labs that include plankton tows, video microscopy, and much more.

4. Paleodune Tour

10 am – 5:30 pm • Minimum = 10 / Maximum = 28
$ 25/participant 

Curt Peterson, Department of Geology at Portland State University, will lead a paleodune tour.  Visiting a number of dune areas, he will highlight sand movement on the continental shelf and its impact on dune development on the coast. The Oregon coastal dunes are a geologically significant feature of the Oregon coast and include more than just the foredune area. Oregon dunes were formed primarily in the Pleistocene era, and in some places dune soils extend from the beach to the foothills of the Coast range. The coastal dunes currently hold great importance as aquifers, and contain the majority of coastal upland wetland areas in Oregon. Vegetative stabilization of foredune areas serve to keep sand from traveling further inland, but does little to prevent coastal erosion from winter storms.

5. Sandy Beach & Foredune Exploration

10 am – 2 pm • Minimum = 10 / Maximum = 30
$25/participant

Join Naturalist Marty Giles of Wavecrest Discoveries for an exploration of sandy beach and foredune—something there is plenty of in Florence! Discover our dynamic beach geology and shoreline processes while learning about some of the treasures of the sandy beach.  The beach walk will continue with an exploration of the foredunes that will include information on the profound changes occurring along the Oregon coast.  Wavecrest Discoveries specializes in engaging and enlightening "mind-refreshing" excursions that give participants a meaningful understanding of this fascinating region. 

6. Forest Ecology & Estuarine Wetlands

2:30 – 5:30 pm • Minimum = 10 / Maximum = 20
$15/participant

Travel up the Siuslaw River with Naturalist Marty Giles of Wavecrest Discoveries to explore both fringing salt marshes and coastal forests for a solid introduction to two contrasting local habitats.  After a stop to learn about our diverse estuarine marshes, participants will hike the short Pawn Trail, to learn about Oregon coast Old Growth forest (as permitted by the USFS, Siuslaw National Forest).  Wavecrest Discoveries Forests specializes in engaging and enlightening “mind-refreshing” excursions that give participants a meaningful understanding of this fascinating region.

7. Horseback Beach Tour

10 am – 1 pm • Minimum = 5 / Maximum = 20
$60/participant

The Guided Horseback Beach Tour with C&M Stables begins on a trail that takes you through scenic dunes and coastal pines.   As you get closer to the beach, you will hear the powerful waves of the Pacific Ocean pounding the shore and you will smell the incredible salt air.  After half an hour, the trail reaches the beach for a breathtaking ride along the shoreline.  Walking and trotting is allowed on the beach.  Riders of all skill levels, beginner through advanced, are welcome.  Children 8 years of age and older are allowed on this ride.  Suggestions:  Dress warmly for beach rides. Please NO hats without chin-straps on the beach, due to windy conditions.  Minimum age 8yrs.

8. Sandland Adventures Dune Buggy Tour

10 am – 12 pm • Minimum = 10 / Maximum = 25
$15/participant

The Sandland Adventures Giant Dune Buggy Tour is a fun and exciting way to see the scenic Oregon dunes.  This informative one  hour tour is operated by professional drivers and covers approximately 8 miles of dunes and 2 miles of beach where you will view an impressive natural wonder of endless shifting sand, unique tree islands, various wildlife, the spectacular Siuslaw River, and beautiful Pacific Ocean beach.  Climbing and descending through the most beautiful, impressive dunes will be an unforgettable experience.  After your dune ride, you can have fun bumping and splashing on the Sandland Adventures Bumper Boats, race on their Grand Prix style Go-Kart track, play Miniature Golf, or take a ride on the Cloverline Railroad.

9. Umpqua Discovery Center and Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area

10 am – 2 pm • Minimum = 5 / Maximum = 14
$15/participant

Take a different look at how to teach the public about watersheds and habitats by exploring "Tidewater Communities" at the Umpqua Discovery Center. The interactive exhibits and programs illustrate how land, water and people have shaped each other over time. We'll also go up to the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area to learn how the Bureau of Land Management is providing pastureland for elk, wetlands for waterfowl and the struggle between the two.

10. Dune & Plover Restoration Ecology & Dune Geomorphology

10 am – 2 pm • Minimum = 5 / Maximum = 15
$15/participant

This hiking trip provides an introduction to Pacific Northwest coastal dune ecology and geomorphology.  The coastal dunes of the US West Coast have changed dramatically due to the introduction and subsequent invasion of non-native sand-binding beach grasses.  These coastal dunes were once open sand shifting environments but have changed to stabilized foredunes covered with non-native grasses.  This loss of open sand habitat led to the decline of species such as the western snowy plover.  On a hike across coastal dunes, learn about this unique environment, how it has changed, and the efforts for plover restoration. This hike is moderate with some easy sections - there are some sections of open, loose sand with some shorter hills.  The activities on this hike include (1) walking to plover restoration areas, (2) running a coastal dunes transect with plant identification and measuring dune elevation profiles (depending on interest and time permitting). Almost all hiking is in open area so participants should bring plenty of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and good walking shoes (sneakers are ok) that they don't mind getting sand in.  Sunny but windy conditions are likely, and blowing sand is common.

11. Crabbing Trip with Captain Greg Helmer *SOLD OUT*

12:30 – 5:30 pm • Minimum = 2 / Maximum = 6
$25/participant

This trip will take you down the scenic Siuslaw River where you’ll view the diversity of wildlife that is common to the coast.  The bridge that spans the Siuslaw River is ornate and worth getting a picture from the river.  There are some beautiful sand dunes that are worth a few mega pixels as we travel the river.  Crossing the “BAR” is a memorable occasion if you have not done this before. Once over the bar the crew will be setting the crab pots, usually fairly close to shore (within 1/2 mile).  The deck hand will be on board to assist or do the setting or retrieving of the pots.   The crew will clean the crabs upon docking the boat.  Be sure to have a container to put your crabs in for the trip home.  The crabs should be kept on ice and boiled soon after getting home.  Once boiled, they are great with drawn butter or you can freeze the cooked crab and it will be good for approx. 6 months. NOTE: Trip is contingent on ocean conditions.

12. Siltcoos River Paddle

10 am – 2 pm • Minimum = 8 / Maximum = 16
$40/participant

From the shimmering waters of the lake, Siltcoos river slips peacefully through dense coastal forest and tall sand ridges of the Oregon Dunes, then loops into a wide estuary that leads to the Pacific Ocean.  Share this river trail with wildlife as you gently make your way from river to the sea. Double kayaks, paddles, and PFDs will be provided.