Marine Protected Area Science Expedition

Marine Protected Area Science Expedition

Grades 6–12

Is the Marine Protected Area offshore from Crystal Cove State Park actually working? Our students will help find out.

Through a special partnership with Crystal Cove Conservancy, students will head out on the water aboard a research vessel to participate in real community science within the Crystal Cove State Marine Conservation Area. This experience goes beyond learning about conservation... students actively contribute to ongoing monitoring efforts that help scientists and managers understand how protected areas are functioning.

During the expedition, students take part in hands-on marine monitoring activities similar to those used by professional scientists. Participants help collect water samples to examine conditions such as temperature and water quality, conduct plankton investigations to observe the foundation of the marine food web, and deploy underwater cameras to document fish and reef life below the surface. These observations contribute to long-term community science efforts used to track ecosystem health inside the Marine Protected Area.

In addition to structured data collection, students will practice careful observation of marine wildlife and responsible ocean stewardship. If conditions allow, there will also be time for whale watching, giving students the opportunity to observe large marine mammals while learning how protected habitats support diverse ocean life.

Students will learn what Marine Protected Areas are, why they matter, and how scientific data is collected, analyzed, and communicated to support conservation decisions. The program emphasizes observation, inquiry, and science communication, helping students see how communities, scientists, and agencies work together to protect marine ecosystems.

This is a hands-on, inquiry-based experience designed for curious teens and pre-teens who want to better understand our local ocean and the role people play in protecting it.

Event Details

Date: March 31

Cost: $49 per person

Check-in: No later than 9:00am

Program Time: 9:00am–12:30pm

Pick-up: 12:30pm

After the program: Families are welcome to stay and enjoy Balboa Peninsula together

Important Notes

Drop-off is strongly recommended to allow more space on the boats for students.

Attending chaperones must purchase a ticket.

Weather Policy

This program is weather dependent; if conditions are deemed unsafe by the vessel captain or partners, the trip may be rescheduled or credited to a future event.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

• Due to the nature of boat charters and advance reservations, no refunds are available. In the event of illness or a family emergency, a student credit may be issued for use toward a future Healthy Footprints Adventure Community event.

Community Science Scholarship

A limited community science scholarship for students will be available once minimum enrollment is reached. Please email us if cost is a barrier at hfadventurecommunity@gmail.com

Charter Funds

Please select manual payment at checkout to reserve your spot and bypass payment. After you have reserved a spot, please immediately submit this event to your charter school for payment. If it is not approved, please contact us to arrange for a personal payment.