INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

An important part of the LPA. mission is to have an ongoing presence on the pond. LPA once again sponsored two interns this summer who assisted Oak Bluffs and Tisbury Constables, as well as the MVC and the MV Shellfish Group. They also participated in developing our LPA Repository which should correspond nicely with their hands-on work on the Pond. Interns are also able to participate in LPA's biodiversity surveys and other project work.

LPA'S BIODIVERSITY SURVEYS

The Lagoon Pond Association has held several biodiversity surveys at Doug's Cove beginning in August of 2023. Led by Maria Abate, PhD, marine biologist, samples were collected in the North Basin of Lagoon Pond from the shore between Doug’s Cove and Brush Pond, using a seine. The organisms were gathered, sorted, counted, measured, and promptly returned to the water.

Members of the Lagoon Pond Association board along with Tisbury Shellfish participated in the sampling. Several members of the community including children have also participated. The most abundant fish has been the Atlantic silverside, but juvenile winter flounder, pufferfish, pipefish, needlefish, fluke, cunner, tautog, striped bass and anchovy are among the fish that were included in the samplings over the past several seines. Crustaceans, molluscs, seaweed and algae were also collected and identified. Water samples for eDNA analysis have also been taken.

The biodiversity surveys are intended to provide an opportunity for people living by Lagoon Pond or visiting the island to have a hands-on experience of what lives in the Lagoon. This year, a smaller seine will also be utilized that will provide more fun and an easier way for children to participate.

The LPA will be conducting additional biodiversity surveys this summer (June, July and August). Come join in the fun!