Papa Bear and Science on the Fly

Science On the Fly.

What is it?  What do they do?  Why is PBA involved?  How can you help?

               If you haven’t heard yet, a few weeks ago Papa Bear announced its support and partnership with Science on the Fly.  SOTF is non-profit organization created and run by Max Holmes with the Woodwell Climate Research Center.  Science on the Fly seeks to further their understanding of changing watersheds around the world through long term, world-class river science.  With a growing list of partners and supporters, SOTF aims to bridge the gap between science and public policy, and to activate and inspire a broad community of river stewards to take ownership of that process.  With PBA as the starting platform in Alaska, we are working together to help raise awareness and support from our fellow anglers.  We have a unique opportunity to be proactive instead of reactive.  With all the samples and data being collected from fellow outdoorsmen and avid fishermen, it’s knowing your rivers health in real time. 

               If you would like to be a part of SOTF, how can you help?  As SOTF is a non-profit organization, any donations to the cause are greatly appreciated.  However, there are other ways that you can help. More specifically, by collecting water samples.  If you have a fishing trip planned this summer with PBA, we will be looking for a few volunteers on each river to collect water samples.  Obtaining the samples is easy with the tried and proven “test kit.”  This test kit includes several small plastic bottles, syringes, carry cooler, filters, ice packs, waterproof note pad and detailed instructions on how and what to do.  If you are interested in volunteering your services, please let us know prior to arriving in Bethel, and we’ll be sure to have your test kit ready to go. Below are a few pictures of what is included in the test kit.

Note Pad. This note pad is waterproof and is used to mark the data associated with each sample.

Freezer Pack. Kit contains 3 of them to help keep the samples cool.

The Syringe. Up to 60 milliliters at a time. The filter attaches to the end.

Sample container. The samples are stored in these water tight containers. Several are included in the kit.

The Cooler. This is an insulated cooler bag. The rough outside dimension are 12 inches tall, 18 inches wide, and 8 inches deep. It is flexible and can fit in tight spaces inside the raft.

Filter. Every sample you take will need to be filtered. These filters simple attach to the end of each syringe. There are several included in the kit. They are meant for a one time use.

Should you have any questions, you can contact us at info@pbadventures.com, or 907-545-1155.  To learn more about Science on the Fly, visit their website at www.scienceonthefly.info .

FISH ON!!