While temperatures in Gainesville consistently reach the mid-90s, one UF student is spending the summer in a much cooler climate.
Matthew Smukall, who graduated in May from the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, was selected to research migrating salmon populations of southern Alaska from July 12 to Sept. 10 as an intern with the Cook Inlet Aquaculture Association.
The first UF student chosen to participate in the program, Smukall will live in and study a remote area of Alaskan terrain for seven weeks.
"I have always wanted to go to Alaska and to work in the wilderness there, and this was a chance to have someone pay for my trip," the Orlando native said.
Smukall, who specialized in wildlife ecology, arrived in Kenai, Alaska, on July 6, where he began a five-day wildlife training period that will certify him in First Aid, CPR and bear, firearm and water safety.
"They have to be prepared," said senior biologist for the association Paul Blanche, who will be supervising the students. "The nearest help is eight hours away."
After the completion of his wildlife training, Smukall will be paired with a student and assigned to one of eight waterside locations.
He said he most looks forward to working alongside wild grizzly bears that will compete for salmon and are attracted to campsites.
Smukall, who spent most of June researching lobster in the Florida Keys, and is a member of the Gator Scuba Club, said adjusting to living in a remote Alaskan location with nighttime temperatures averaging in the low 40s will be tough.
Smukall and his student partner will build and live in a 10-by-12 semipermanent, weather-proof structure.
"It is freezing here, and it was weird to see all of the mountains as we flew in covered in snow in the middle of July," he said.
