About MPSC: What We Do
MPSC furthers conservation of protected species through sound research, mitigation, and training. MPSC offers Protected Species Observer training that is approved by the federal agencies Bureau of Ocean and Energy Management and Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement in coordination with National Marine Fisheries Service to provide PSO certification. The training is given by Angela Bostwick, a BOEM/BSEE/NMFS-approved instructor for the course.
Working as a PSO and Obtaining Certification
Protected Species Observers (PSOs), also known as Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs), monitor mainly for marine mammals and sea turtles. PSOs complete certain reports on protected species activity and industry operations that are required by federal agencies such as NMFS, BOEM, and BSEE. PSOs also advise regarding protected species in the "exclusion zone," and on the measures required to reduce impacts to the animals.
MPSC l 2261 Northpark Drive #147 l Kingwood, TX USA 77339 l 832-523-2402 l ABostwick@PSOCertifications.com l ProtectedSpeciesObservers.com
Disclaimer & Copyright
Obtaining PSO certification is not a guarantee of finding work as a PSO. All materials in the MPSC training course and website are protected under copyright, and may not be reproduced without prior written consent from the company.
Work as a PSO is a great way to see a wide variety of marine life, such as whales, dolphins, sea turtles and more. The sunsets and sunrises on the wide open horizon offshore are unlike any other. To work as a Protected Species Observer on geological and geophysical operations such as seismic surveys or construction at sea, you must take training which meets the standards set forth in federal regulations. We provide this training, and upon successful completion of this course, students will receive their PSO certification for geological and geophysical operations in the Gulf of Mexico. PSOs may also need to hold a bachelors degree in the natural sciences which included 30 semester hours in the biological sciences, and a course in math or statistics prior to beginning work; this degree requirement may be waived in some instances, depending on experience. While the regulations discussed are specific to the Gulf of Mexico, the PSO certification is an established and recognized standard that is often accepted in other parts of the country (Atlantic, etc.) or world to qualify an individual to work as a PSO in various settings such as renewable energy construction and monitoring. The methods for locating and identifying animals discussed in the training are valuable tools for wildlife observers worldwide. The live discussions with experienced PSOs and PAM Operators include tips and tricks of the trade in living and working offshore. After the course, we supply a list of PSO providers that you may wish to contact for work.
