Francis Marion University to Acquire New Aquatic Research Vessel

News Summary

Francis Marion University (FMU) in Florence, SC, is set to enhance its educational offerings with a new aquatic research vessel funded by a grant from the Duke Energy Foundation. This vessel will provide students with hands-on learning experiences in aquatic studies, allowing them to engage in activities like water quality sampling, hydrological surveys, and contour mapping. It signifies a commitment to enriching programs in biology and environmental science, reinforcing the university’s long-standing partnership with Duke Energy.

Francis Marion University Set to Receive a New Aquatic Research Vessel thanks to Duke Energy Foundation

Francis Marion University (FMU), located in the heart of Florence, South Carolina, is about to make a splash with a new aquatic research vessel, courtesy of an exciting grant from the Duke Energy Foundation. This vessel is not just any boat; it is designed to enhance student learning and provide hands-on research experiences like never before.

A Boost for Student Learning

Thanks to this generous grant, FMU faculty and staff will be diving into immersive research opportunities that cover a wide variety of important aquatic studies. Students can look forward to getting their hands wet with tasks like water quality sampling, discharge monitoring, contour mapping, hydrological surveys, and substrate sampling. With practical, real-world applications at their fingertips, learning is about to get a whole lot more engaging!

A Long-standing Partnership

The support provided by the Duke Energy Foundation underscores a long-term commitment to higher education and environmental stewardship. This is not the first time FMU has benefited from the foundation’s generosity. In fact, this grant marks the third in a series aimed at bolstering environmental studies at the university. Over the years, the foundation has shown unwavering support, and this latest initiative is no exception!

Enhancing Programs in Biology and Environmental Science

With an eye on enriching student learning, the grants from Duke Energy have opened up numerous avenues for those studying biology and environmental science at FMU. The newest research vessel promises to provide even more aquatic opportunities for student engagement. This is a big deal for those who dream of exploring the wonders of water and its ecosystems!

Past Achievements with Funding

Looking back at 2019, one of the memorable achievements made possible by the Duke Energy Foundation was the introduction of an electrofishing vessel. This specialized craft has proven invaluable for numerous coursework, especially within the biology and environmental science programs. In the hands of eager students, this vessel facilitated an immersive learning experience that led to impressive outcomes, including nine undergraduate conference presentations and even a published work!

Impactful Research Projects

The research projects conducted with the electrofishing vessel explored essential topics, such as the trophic dynamics of fish communities in the Great Pee Dee River and the assessment of juvenile striped bass habitat use. These endeavors have not only contributed to academic growth but have also deepened the connection between students and their natural surroundings.

Mobile Learning Lab on Wheels

Prior to this recent grant, FMU was also fortunate to receive funding for a Winnebago, transformed into a mobile learning lab for students in various sciences. With the university continuously enhancing its educational tools, students are reassured that they are receiving a rich, well-rounded experience. Who said learning has to be boring?

Looking Forward

The excitement surrounding the new aquatic research vessel is palpable within the FMU community. As students gear up for new adventures on the water, the partnership between the university and the Duke Energy Foundation serves as a shining example of how collaborative efforts can lead to greater educational opportunities. With such significant support, the future looks bright for those eager to dive into the world of biology and environmental science!

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Additional Resources

• WBTW: Francis Marion University Awarded Grant for New Aquatic Research Vessel
• Wikipedia: Aquatic Research
• WBTW: Francis Marion University to Build $18M Environmental Facility
• Google Search: Francis Marion University
• WBTW: HGTC Opens Golf Turf Care and Demonstration Center in Conway
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Aquatic Ecosystem
• WBTW: City of Myrtle Beach to Keep Public Beach Access Closed
• Google News: Environmental Research