Oikonos is a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization working locally and internationally
to increase ecosystem knowledge
through science, art, technology, education, and applied conservation.

What's New for Spring 2009

Free Interactive Art and Science Performance, Saturday April 25th, Noon to 3 pm
The San Francisco Bay Model Visitor Center in Sausalito, CA
See Helen Chellin or call Bay Model (415) 332-3871

Project News:

Habitat Quality for Diving Ducks in the San Francisco Bay Estuary Diving ducks in San Francisco Bay are in decline and their management historically has been overlooked. The primary project goal is to estimate the population of wintering diving duck species that can be supported in the estuary based on their daily food requirements and the availability of quality underwater habitat. San Francisco Bay habitats are important for diving duck populations. © Natalie Wilson, USGS In the future, our models will help predict changes in the health of diving ducks under different scenarios - sea level rise, habitat restoration, disturbances due to oil spills and other human activities. Funders & Partners: The San Francisco Foundation, USGS, Southern Illinois University, San Francisco State University, San Francisco Bay Joint Venture View main project page

Másafuera Rayadito and Citizen Science Oikonos resumed work to conserve the Másafuera Rayadito, Aphrastura masafuerae, a critically endangered landbird on the Juan Fernández Archipelago, Chile. The species is endemic to a single island, Isla Alejandro Selkirk. Peter Hodum conducted population surveys in parts of the island that had never been assessed before. In addition, local fishers will collect data on rayaditos whenever they are in the field. These data will improve our understanding of this special bird while giving island residents the opportunity to play a valuable role in conservation research. View main project page

Fulbright Awarded Peter Hodum, an Oikonos director who leads the Juan Fernández Islands Conservancy, has been awarded a Fulbright Fellowship to teach and conduct conservation research in Chile during 2009-2010. Peter will be based at the Universidad de Concepción where he will develop and teach a new field-based conservation biology course. He will be collaborating with a Chilean government agency to develop a program for Pink-footed Shearwaters on Isla Mocha and will also be continuing the long-term conservation work in the Juan Fernández Islands. Congratulations Peter! (center)

What's New Archive - View Past Pages