Jenna Fairchild (IMES) - A Proposal to Study a Possibly Climate Change Resistant Coral Located on Florida's Central East Coast

About Me:

Headshot of me in New Smyrna Beach, FL

Greetings, everyone! My name is Jenna Fairchild and I am an ocean and adventure enthusiast. I am currently a non-degree seeking student taking courses to strengthen my applications to graduate schools in a marine science and management field. I have a BAS degree in Supervision and Management, and while attaining my degree I spent time in conservation marketing alongside the local Daytona Beach company, Costa Del Mar. I am a SCUBA diver, surfer, and artist inspired by the ocean and earnest to protect it. My vision for the future is to continue learning more about the ocean through surfing, diving, research, and teaching others to do the same.

My Project:

The goal of my research is to answer the scientific question of whether or not Oculina varicosa is growing in the vicinity of the Ponce Inlet jetty. By doing this, I hope to contribute to the knowledge of this species of coral by locating and protecting it. Coral are a vital part of our ocean ecosystems that are teeming with life. Unfortunately, coral are under high pressure due to overfishing, pollution, and climate change. It is important to understand and protect Oculina varicosa because it is known to be resilient, adaptable, and climate change resistant because it is an azooxanthellate coral. I hope to contribute to the understanding and management of this species, ultimately to protect our coral reefs. 

Respectfully, 

Jenna Fairchild