Dave Johnston, assistant professor of the practice in marine conservation ecology, is leading a new research and training facility for the use of unmanned aircraft systems – commonly referred to as drones – in marine science and conservation. The Marine Conservation Ecology Unmanned Systems Facility, located at the Duke Marine Lab in Beaufort, North Carolina, flew its first mission in August 2015 to map endangered sea turtle populations and nests in Costa Rica. In addition to flying research missions for private and public partners, the facility will offer training courses for students and working professionals on how to use drones for coastal research and conservation, and is partnering with local high schools to support drone-centered science outreach programs for students.
Marine drone research is an exciting new area of exploration at the intersection of technology and the environment. If you are interested in supporting Dr. Johnston’s work, there are many ways you can make a difference through a gift to his drone research program. For example:
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For $40,000, you can help the facility add a new state-of-the art drone system.
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For $2,000, you can sponsor a drone survey of gray seals in Cape Cod or Canada.
