By Genoveva F. Esteban, Bournemouth University

My role as one of SAMARCH partners involves securing students from Bournemouth University for training in salmon and sea-trout research and conservation techniques.  Thus, I was thrilled when the tagging team asked me to participate in the work and witness first-hand what students and researchers do in the field. It was my first tagging outing ever.  Once at the river, I was handed (what probably was) the most hideous pair of polaroid glasses ever, and I reluctantly agreed to wear them.  Upon positioning them over my eyes … … voilà! ÇA MARCHE! The water glare magically disappeared, and the riverbed turned into a sharp and clear image.  I did not net any fish though, but absolutely loved the experience despite the long hours and hard work. Teamwork was impressive and students and volunteers were spot on.