[Top] Retired Erie Health Department biologist, Bob Wellington and Chuck Murray, a Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission fisheries biologist kicked off the "Science on the water" series with stories and history of the Presque Isle Bay Fishery.
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These were no ordinary tour guides. Scientists, researchers, and historians interpreted the cultural and natural heritage of Lake Erie for visitors aboard the Presque Isle Aquabus this summer. The Pennsylvania Sea Grant "Science on the Water" cruises were filled to capacity with several participants sailing more than once. "We wanted to take advantage of a different venue for the outreach that we do at Pennsylvania Sea Grant," said coastal outreach specialist Marti Martz. "Science can be more interesting when you are in the midst of it, say from on board a boat, moving through or over or alongside whatever topic we are discussing." Retired Erie Health Department biologist, Bob Wellington and Chuck Murray, a Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission fisheries biologist kicked off the series with stories and history of the Presque Isle Bay Fishery. Participants learned about fisheries management, the extinction of the once thriving blue pike, and the problems that threaten the biodiversity of Lake Erie today, including invasive species, diseases, and habitat loss. The second program included Lori Boughton, Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Chief of the Office of the Great Lakes, and Mike Campbell, chairman of the Presque Isle Bay Public Advisory Committee and biology professor at Mercyhurst College. They shared the "State of the Bay" report recently released by DEP. After learning about the pollution that plagued the bay, including raw sewage and industrial discharges, participants heard that the bay was recovering its beauty and environmental quality. Presenters also told participants that the goal of a swimmable bay was recently realized and that citizen action played a key role. "Citizens must continue to protect our most valuable resource by working as guardians advocating for additional improvements to our bay and its watershed," said Campbell as they returned to shore. The final water taxi cruise, "Tales and Faces of Erie's Maritime History," was popular with participants like Dave and Ann Henderson, the Cranesville couple, who wanted to know more about the lake's history. They were not disappointed in the 90- minute presentation by David Frew, local historian and Jerry Skrypzak, S.O.N.S. (Save Our Native Species) president. The stories of the Brig Niagara and the shipwrecks that lie on the lake floor were extremely interesting. But they especially liked learning about the once rich iron ore deposits and how they were collected and turned into steel. Martz hopes this interest and appreciation will motivate more people to become actively involved in protecting Lake Erie resources. She plans to expand the program next summer by adding weekend and afternoon cruises and a weekday, family science cruise. : : Contact Marti Martz at 217-8015 or at mam60@psu.edu. |