PWSC Marine Natural Resources Technician Students Experience Hands-On Learning at Sitka Aquaculture Lab

A group of students from our Marine Natural Resources Technician (MNRT) program recently traveled to Sitka, Alaska, to participate in the University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) Aquaculture Lab, led by Angie Bowers. For three immersive days, the students explored the exciting intersections of marine science, sustainability, and mariculture.

On Day 1, the students began with a deep dive into salmon enhancement at the Medvejie and Sheldon Jackson hatcheries. They learned firsthand how hatchery operations support Alaska’s vital fisheries, observing processes that sustain salmon populations. The day also included a visit to the Sitka Sound Science Center, where students were introduced to techniques for cultivating kelp using tumbling culture—an emerging and sustainable marine industry. One memorable highlight was witnessing the transportation of live salmon between sites aboard a working fishing vessel, which provided a unique insight into the logistics involved.

Day 2 took the group to Magic Island, where they braved the rain in search of local seaweed species, adding a touch of flair by decorating their rain gear with their finds! Once back in the lab, students identified and preserved their seaweed samples by pressing and preparing sorus tissue—the reproductive part of kelp—for future cultivation. The day was made even more special by the presence of Dr. Sandra Lindstrom, a leading phycologist and co-author of *Seaweeds of Alaska*, who generously shared her expertise and inspired students with her extensive knowledge of coastal ecosystems.

On the final day, students shifted their focus to microscopic work, counting released kelp spores and setting up cultivation tanks. They also visited the UAS kelp farm to collect samples and record growth data while taking essential water quality measurements for marine farming. The trip concluded with a hands-on oyster dissection, offering a close-up look at bivalve anatomy and physiology.

This unforgettable learning experience was made possible thanks to the generosity and guidance of Angie Bowers, Sara Ebersole, Aldo Grifo-Hahn, and Dr. Sandra Lindstrom. We extend our heartfelt thanks to each of them for sharing their knowledge and passion and for creating lasting memories for our MNRT students.