Francis McParland

• Track and administer the actions in Goal 4 of the NYS Ocean Action Plan (OAP); Goal 4: Empower the public to actively participate in in decision making and ocean stewardship.
• Update and maintain OAP and Oceans programs webpages as needed.
• Represent Division of Marine Resources at stakeholder meetings, marine trade shows, and professional conferences to inform constituents on regulations and marine focused initiatives.
• Represent New York State in mid-Atlantic and state workgroup meetings; particularly focusing on plastic pollution and recreational fishing.
• Participates in sub-workgroups focused on designing outreach/CBSM campaigns to limit plastic pollution in the mid-Atlantic.
• Coordinates a public biannual balloon litter and marine debris survey at Jones Beach as part of a mid-Atlantic project to track litter throughout the 5 mid-Atlantic states.
• Supervised and supported a 6-month fisheries/outreach technician remotely. Their responsibilities were to preform sturgeon survey fieldwork and to create ocean acidification outreach materials.
• Plans and administers teacher professional development courses to promote ocean literacy throughout the marine district of New York. Course topics include plastic pollution and coastal acidification.
• Developed outreach strategies to engage communities in environmental conservation initiatives.
• Coordinated public awareness campaigns promoting sustainable practices across diverse populations.
• Collaborated with stakeholders to identify environmental concerns and promote effective solutions.

• Assists customers in selecting the best fishing and outdoor equipment based on their need

• Maintain equipment, organize merchandise, and greets customers

• Provides reel spooling services and minor maintenance to customers equipment

• Provides tips and assistance to customers recommending fishing locations and tackle recommendations

• Enhances product knowledge by participating in training sessions, ensuring accurate information for customers.

• Lead both beginner and advanced fishing clinics including surfcasting, fly fishing and light tackle bait fishing.
• Created presentations for peers and the public about fishing, access, and regulations.
• Coordinated large fishing and educational events with local stakeholders and municipalities.
• Used and maintained limnological instruments including, YSI, Secchi Disc, refractometer, ponar sampler, etc.
• Created fishing access publications for New York State using ArcGIS/Microsoft software.
• Helped in evaluating and adjusting statewide I Fish NY program within the state.
• Coordinated and instructed interns and seasonal staff in the field.
• Experienced in boating safety and use of variety of vessels including electrofishing boats, out board motors, canoes, kayaks, and row boats.
• Assisted in coordinating field trips and workshops for student engagement.
• Implemented feedback mechanisms to improve educational resources and delivery.
• Trained new staff on program procedures and educational tools.