Channel Islands Live—No Scuba Gear Required!

Channel Islands Live—No Scuba Gear Required!
Carol Peterson
Education Coordinator, Channel Islands National Park
Catharine Reznicek
Educational Technology Specialist, Ventura Co. Office of Education
Ventura, CA

What is Channel Islands Live?

Channel Islands Live is a program that offers students and the public a new way to experience the wild and remote landscapes of Channel Islands National Park using wireless technology. Developed in partnership between Channel Islands National Park and Ventura County Office of Education, Channel Islands Live is bringing the park to the people by providing real-time educational programs and wildlife viewing from the
spectacular natural world that lies just off the coast of southern California. Through Channel Islands Live anyone can access remote park locations and understand the value of the Channel Islands.

What is the purpose of the program?

The purpose of this project is to increase public awareness of the island and marine ecosystems of Channel Islands National Park and National Marine Sanctuary through education and outreach programs. Streaming video and audio from the Channel Islands are delivered by a wireless network supported by the park and Ventura County Office of Education. Using the latest educational technology, interactive programs are
delivered from the remote Channel Islands to audiences on the mainland. These experiences help connect participants to the values of park science, history, and culture.

What does it offer?

• Real-time hikes and dives. Channel Islands Live programs highlight the remarkable natural and cultural resources of the park and marine sanctuary. Programs explore various island resources including kelp forests, a historic lighthouse, and active seabird colonies. The interactive Live Dive program is broadcast from the giant kelp forests off Anacapa Island using cameras and two way communication to allow students and visitors to talk with park rangers during underwater dives.
• Education programs. More than 500 students and teachers in Ventura County schools are participating in the Channel Islands Live curriculum-based education program. Students conduct hands-on classroom and field activities to compliment the live broadcasts.
• Webcams. Using a personal computer, everyone can access Channel Islands Live webcams to watch a pair of nesting bald eagles in the process of raising this year’s chicks on Santa Cruz Island at http://www.nps.gov/chis/photosmultimedia/webcams.htm. In summer 2010, other webcams will be up and running, offering up-close views of California brown pelicans and western gulls nesting on Anacapa Island.

For more information: www.nps.gov/chis