NARRAGANSETT BAY NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE RECOGNIZED FOR EXPANDING ACCESS TO COASTAL RESOURCES FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING
PROVIDENCE – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announces that the Narragansett Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (NBNERR) is part of a team that has been recognized by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for exceptional work advancing access to coastal resources for people with disabilities. Acting NOAA head Timothy Gallaudet acknowledged NBNERR and two other research reserves for their exceptional work and dedication to bringing estuarine literacy to the deaf and hard of hearing at NOAA’s recent Senior Executive Service Summit.
As part of its Teachers of the Estuary (TOTE) program, NBNERR staff collaborated with other research reserves and educators of deaf persons to develop video modules in American Sign Language (ASL) for estuarine and coastal terminology and to develop field experiences for teachers and students. NBNERR is a partnership program established between NOAA and DEM to promote informed management and sound stewardship of coastal resources. Located in the geographic center of Narragansett Bay on Prudence Island, NBNERR conducts long-term research, education, monitoring, and training initiatives to preserve, protect, and restore the Bay’s coastal and estuarine ecosystems.
“DEM is committed to improving access to Narragansett Bay and our coastal waters so that all Rhode Islanders and visitors can enjoy these magnificent natural resources,” said DEM Director Janet Coit. “NBNERR’s new video education project is an innovative way to bring estuarine literacy to people who are deaf and hard of hearing. We are proud of NBNERR’s commitment to connecting people of all abilities to nature.”
“This project has been incredibly fulfilling and illuminating as to the challenges that deaf and hard of hearing students and teachers have when it comes to coastal science concepts,” said NBNERR Education Coordinator Maureen Dewire. “We are excited to be hosting a field trip for the high school students from the RI School for the Deaf next spring.”