Emerging Ocean Scientists: Exploring Marine Life Through Community Science

Embark on a voyage that nurtures curiosity and empowers young minds in the "Emerging Ocean Scientists: Exploring Marine Life Through Advanced Community Science." This unique event invites students to actively contribute to marine research, collaborating with peers and with experts in the field. Grade level appropriate curriculum packets will be sent to each student as well as post trip activity sheets that connect with state standards.

Exploration Projects:

1. Plankton Investigation: Dive into the microscopic world of plankton using nets to capture samples. Analyze these vital organisms under a microscope and contribute to a valuable online database, supporting local scientists' understanding of ecosystem dynamics. Students may also participate in a vertical plankton tow for the California Department of Health.
2. Digital Fishing Investigation: During the digital fishing investigation, student monitoring teams use a fishing rod to lower a camera into the water, exploring the canopy, mid-stipe and holdfast zones and recording video of the fish life under the surface. Students examine their video recordings to identify the fish and other items of interest that they see. Their findings are shared with researchers at UC Irvine's Center Environmental Biology and State Park resource managers, who are interested in learning about how fish populations are responding in Crystal Cove's Marine Conservation Area.
3. Water Quality Investigation: Collect water samples at varying depths, measuring temperature, salinity, and pH. Your data will be used by researchers at UC Irvine and State Park resource managers to assess the health of the kelp forest and marine ecosystems.

Participation in "Emerging Ocean Scientists" empowers students to make a real impact on marine conservation. Guided by the partnership of Crystal Cove Conservancy and Newport Landing, local scientists, and State Park resource managers, this event offers a hands-on opportunity for students to delve into marine research concepts, collaborate with peers, and contribute directly to the future of our oceans.

An HFAC Certified naturalist will meet with students before boarding to introduce students and get ready for the trip together. After the science cruise, students will enjoy a packed lunch together and will have the option to stay and hang out to further develop relationships.

Registration Details:

• Date: Thursday, September 28, 2023
• Time: 9:00am - 1:00pm
• Location: Crystal Cove State Park
• Age Group: 7th - 12th graders
• Type: Drop-Off optional
• Cost: $59 per student, $39 for chaperone/parent
• Our event photographer, Denise, will be there! Photos will be downloadable for each family from our website.

Parents will be in their own community science group onboard, while students work together!

Secure your student's spot now for a day of exploration, collaboration, and meaningful contribution to marine conservation. This experience promises to provide a focused and enriching environment that nurtures understanding, teamwork, and a lifelong connection to our oceans.

Please watch this video to learn more!  https://youtu.be/u6m2tqZMD3s

NOTES:

This is a non-refundable ticket.

For younger, advanced students, please reach out to us directly.

Photographs from the experience, by our photographer, Denise, will be downloadable from our photo albums page.

Inquire about financial scholarships, full or partial, for need-based applicants.