The Coastal Conservation of North Carolina -- an association dedicated to preserving and protecting our marine fisheries for current and future generations -- announced that it has selected one student to receive a $ 2,000 scholarship to further their educational goals in the area of Marine Science.

"We look for students doing work in the area of Marine Science who have projects that will be of benefit long term to the anglers of North Carolina" said Stephen Ammons, Executive Director of CCA NC.

After reviewing the candidates for the $2,000 scholarship for 2013, the selection committee reached a unanimous agreement on a deserving candidate -- Samantha Binion from North Carolina State University in the Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology Program.

Under the direction of Dr. Jeff Buckel, Samantha is seeking her doctoral degree at NC State with her project focused conducting a multispecies food habits study in the Pamlico Sound and its associated tributaries. This study will allow Samantha to address many topics pertinent to the management of several recreational fishing stocks within the state, including estimates of total predator demand, identification of important forage species, and the detection of predation "hotspots".

This project is vital to the overall health of North Carolina fisheries and is consistent with the many efforts of CCA NC to improve our marine resources.

The stated purpose of the Coastal Conservation Association North Carolina is to advise and educate the public on conservation of marine resources. The objective of CCA is to conserve, promote and enhance the present and future availability of these coastal resources for the benefit and enjoyment of the general public.

For more Information please visit www.ccanc.org