Submitted by Grays Harbor College
After several years without Fisheries courses, Grays Harbor College will re-introduce three college-level classes for Fall Quarter.
The new classes include Fish Biology (FISH215), Chemical Field Methods (FISH220), and/or Advanced Aquaculture (FISH220). By enrolling in a FISH course, students, current or prospective, can begin training for a vocational career in fisheries, transfer to complete a bachelor degree, or continue on for a graduate degree in research. More information about enrolling in these classes is available at the GHC Welcome Center or on the College website, ghc.edu/admissions.
Since 2015, led by GHC Biology Instructor Dr. Amanda Gunn, the College’s Fish Lab has been revived. Originally seeking to provide hands-on experiences for her students, she has helped evolve the Fish Lab into a volunteer-based community program open to students, faculty, staff, and community members of all ages. In addition to raising 5,000 coho and 10,000 chum from eggs each year, participants have recently gained experience in juvenile trout rearing and planting for the Lake Sylvia children’s fishing derby. With activities including spawning, surplus, invasive species removal, stream clean-up, aquatic species monitoring, and research, the Fish Lab has engaged hundreds of participants in an interactive experience that celebrates fisheries in Grays Harbor.
As Dr. Gunn comments, “Over the past three years, the GHC Fish Lab volunteer core has grown from just three people to several hundred participants this year. While our regular Fish Lab program will absolutely continue, addition of these new courses will allow me to dive deeper into the literature, research, and procedures for students who want to know even more.”
She also explains that the new courses have also opened the door for a collaborative relationship with the University of Hawaii at Hilo (UHH). GHC is currently working with UHH to develop direct transfer pathways for students interested in pursuing a Bachelors in Aquaculture or Marine Science. Notably, GHC students accepted to UHH can apply for in-state tuition, making it a cost-effective option to attend a highly ranked public university while traveling and experiencing new cultures.
“Grays Harbor College is the only college on the Washington coast,” notes GHC Vice President for Instruction Dr. Emily Lardner. “One of our core values at the College is respect for the environment, and another providing excellent educational programs and pathways. Reviving these three Fisheries courses reflects both values.”
Two current GHC students who have volunteered many hours at the Fish Lab look forward to the new offerings.
“Volunteering at the Fish Lab has had such a positive impact on my life. It has helped build my confidence in knowing I belong in STEM fields,” remarks Lauren Thompson.
Her sister, Maddie Thompson adds, “The addition of the FISH courses adds another layer to my experience with the Fish Lab. Having these courses now available is a huge step forward, not only for myself but for anyone interested in fish science or marine biology. The FISH courses are a perfect way to get started in fisheries. I look forward to the program coming back to life and I am glad I get to be a part of it.”
Contact the GHC Welcome Center 360-538-4026 now to enroll in the Fisheries courses and all other offerings for Summer and Fall Quarters.
