Help Dr. Susan Shaw and MERI

Even though it isn't technically part of my usual consumer product safety focus, I can't get Dr. Shaw's speech out of my head. The dangerous toxins in our ocean and the terrifying impact that the oil spill will have on our already chemical-drenched environment are enough to give anyone nightmares. It is too easy to feel powerless and immobilized by the enormity of it all.

Short of moving to Maine and volunteering for the Institute on a daily basis, there are some things that we can do to help.  I found a wishlist on the MERI Center for Marine Studies/Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI) website.

While some items are a bit specific (liquid nitrogen portable container, stainless steel sink, oars...), there are a few simple items on the list that could be shipped fairly easily - I'm going to start with children's books and fish food.  For more information, contact Sarah Curts at 207-374-2135 or info@meriresearch.org.

Dr. Shaw and her site are inspiring.  Visit MERI online when you need to be reassured that someone is working around the clock to make a positive difference in this unthinkable situation.

Wish List MERI needs the following items: For Education Programs: Equipment Microscopes Test Kits for pH, dissolved oxygen, and nutrients Dissection tools Macro lens camera Aquarium Supplies Tanks (90 gal. or more) Canister filters UV sterilizers Chillers Aquarium stands Tank hoods Lighting Aerators Substrate Sea salt/marine mix Fish food Library Resources Science text books Children’s books Nautical charts Natural science VHS tapes and DVDs 36” or larger TV Education Volunteer Needs Librarian to re-organize our substantial collection and catalogue it. Aquarium maintenance. Ocean Video Night assistant (every Friday from January 10 through March 28). Reader for children’s program (Fridays from 10-11). For The Resource Center: Small table / writing desk Comfortable chairs for library Sturdy folding tables File cabinets Floor lamps Video camera For Eco-Trips: Mini Van 16' long flat-bottom work skiff with aluminum or fiberglass bottom Oars New Global Positioning System (GPS) Plotter Bushnell 7x35 AOS Binoculars (2 pairs) Sediment sieves Plankton nets Multiparameter water sampling system For Research: Refrigerator Microscope Double or triple stainless steel sink Cell counter Liquid nitrogen portable container Industrial freezer Centrifuge Flat bed truck

Need Help with your Donation? Contact Sarah Curts, who will be happy to help you out. She can be reached at 207-374-2135 or info@meriresearch.org.

Donating and Tax Deductions Your contribution to MERI is tax-deductible. After donating, you will receive a receipt by e-mail. Please print and keep this receipt for your records.