UCA not only raises journalists, educators, writers and trainers but it also raises scientists. Among these scientists are the members of the Fisheries and Wildlife Society.
The Fisheries and Wildlife Society comprises a mixture of graduate and undergraduate students with an interest in fisheries and aquatic ecosystems.
Fisheries and aquatic ecosystems are a part of the life cycle. If not conserved and sustained properly, they could die off and create a hole in the life cycle, which could have unpredictable long-term effects on earth.
These students conduct research, teach the importance of the conservation and sustainability of these systems. Through research, they develop advancements in the science of fisheries and aquatic ecosystems while keeping the campus educated on the topic and members involved on the campus.
“We have several outreach events that we participate in each semester,” Fisheries and Wildlife Society President Heather Saco said. “From local science nights, where we educate community members on conservation issues concerning fisheries and wildlife, to Girl Power in STEM, which is an event that brings 300 eighth grade girls to UCA for a day of learning about STEM careers from women in these fields. We also participate in Earth Day activities at the Jewel Moore Nature Reserve plus much, much more throughout the year.”
Originally a group for fisheries and wildlife professionals, according to the Arkansas chapter of the American Fisheries Society’s website, the group dates back to the 1980s. UCA’s chapter is a subunit of the state chapter.
“I enjoy being involved in educational outreach as a member of FWS. It gives me the opportunity to volunteer at EcoFest, UCA Earth Day, and elementary school night to participate in educational outreach,” graduate student Stephanie Stoughton said. “Educating others about the importance of natural habitats and biodiversity is the best way to conserve natural resources.”
image via OrgSync
