South Portland, ME – The Casco Bay Bluefin Bonanza tuna tournament recently awarded $25,000 the University of Maine Foundation to support cutting edge bluefin tuna research and internships at UMaine School of Marine Sciences Pelagic Fisheries Lab.
Bluefin Bonanza President Bob Humphrey recently presented the check to Liz Erickson, Director of Philanthropy at the University of Maine Foundation, Sammi Nadeau, Research Assistant from the Pelagic Fisheries Lab and Diane Rowland, Dean of the UMaine College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences, which oversees the School of Marine Sciences at the University of Maine.
“The Casco Bay Bluefin Bonanza is a highlight of the Pelagic Fisheries Lab’s internship experience. At this tournament, UMaine interns are able to immerse themselves in the field and gain true hands-on experience as young research professionals. This extends from critical biological sampling, to interacting with industry members, to practicing strong science communication with a variety of audiences, and so much more. Additionally, the integration within the fishing community allows each intern to become a more thoughtful researcher; understanding that the results of their work has an impact not only on the sustainability of Atlantic bluefin tuna, but also on those who depend on the fishery. The wide suite of support that the CBBB team provides to the PFL is truly unmatched and invaluable. We cannot thank the CBBB team enough for welcoming us into their community, advocating for the research conducted in this lab, and continually fostering experiences that leave such a lasting impression on the PFL and its interns,” said Rowland.
Among multiple research projects supported by the Bluefin Bonanza, the Pelagic Fisheries Lab, led by Dr. Walt Golet, is heading a ground-breaking genetics study. Results from this work will provide fisheries managers with much more accurate population data they can use when preparing stock assessments and determining allowable harvest levels. “Some of this work will be presented at the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) meeting later this month and could literally change the way bluefin tuna are managed,” said Humphrey, who also serves on the NOAA Fisheries Highly Migratory Species Advisory Panel.
In addition to research, the Bluefin Bonanza also provides funding for internships at the Lab, and a unique opportunity for students to gain practical field experience that could shape their career paths. “Exploring the tuna this summer fueled a curiosity and passion that I didn’t know I had, said intern Amelia McAvoy. “Thank you so much for the support you provide this lab to host interns, like me, who can explore their passions in such an exciting and fun environment. As I continue to explore my career in my next two years of school, I will hold this internship and all the things I learned this summer close to me.”
This marks the sixth year of support for the Pelagic Fisheries Lab and its interns, and brings total contributions to over $125,000. “We are very proud to be able to give back to the community that supports us,” said Humphrey. Our support of the Lab’s students and staff ensures that the best available science is applied in managing our valuable bluefin tuna resource, which in turn, supports local fishermen and the countless businesses associated with their infrastructure.”
Photo CBBB25: l. to r. Jane Humphrey, CBBB Secretary; Bob Humphrey, CBBB President; Liz Erickson, UMaine Foundation; Diane Rowland, Dean of the UMaine College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences; Sammi Nadeau, UMO Pelagic Fisheries Lab; Shawn Tibbetts, CBBB Vice President.
About the Casco Bay Bluefin Bonanza
The Casco Bay Bluefin Bonanza is a 501 (c)(3) is an independent, non-profit organization committed to the purpose of raising and expending funds in support of educational scholarships to deserving individuals, giving charitable donations to those in need and building a better community. For more information, visit: www.bluefinbonanza.org or email bluefinbonanza@gmail.com
