The Monmouth University Urban Coast Institute (UCI) will host a meeting on Nov. 20 to reveal the findings of a fall community science project designed to learn more about the marine organisms living along our coast through environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling. Members of the public are invited to attend the workshop, which will be held on campus from 6-9 p.m. at the Bey Hall Auditorium.
Dinner and refreshments will be provided. Registration is requested by Thursday, Nov. 13, for the free event.
Beginning in September, local volunteers worked with Monmouth researchers to collect samples of ocean waters, bays, and brackish areas of rivers from the Manasquan Inlet to the Raritan Bayshore in Monmouth County. The samples have since been lab analyzed for trace genetic materials floating in the water, known as eDNA, which can indicate the recent presence of marine life. The data will be used to help develop a baseline understanding of the species living in Monmouth area waters that can be compared to future results.
Endowed Professor of Marine Science Jason Adolf and UCI Resilience and Outreach Project Lead Richard Kane will provide an overview of the sampling, analysis process, results, and next steps in the research. The project is being supported through a federal grant secured by Congressman Frank Pallone.
Those with questions about the event may email rkane@monmouth.edu.