Fall Marine Science Program

Exploring Conservation on the California Coast

From kelp forest restoration to ocean cleanups, discover the many efforts underway to protect California's marine ecosystems. In this five-part live online series, students will explore current conservation projects, learn about the science behind healthy oceans, and discover how researchers, volunteers, and organizations are working to restore California's coastline.

Topics include ocean cleanups, the ecology and recovery of the Giant Sea Bass, kelp forest restoration in Northern and Southern California, and the National Park Service's long-running Kelp Forest Monitoring Program in the Channel Islands.

Students enrolled in the online series are invited to join us for an educational field day in Long Beach. Together we'll explore California marine ecosystems, visit a beautiful kelp forest exhibit, and connect the science we've learned in class with the animals, habitats, and conservation efforts found along our coast.

Whether you're interested in marine biology, conservation, or simply love the ocean, this series offers an exciting look at the science and stewardship helping protect California's coast.

Semester Program Details

The fall semester includes five live online classes.

Classes are on Monday evenings from 6:30pm-7:30pm via Zoom. Recordings can be provided for missed classes.

Monday, September 14th at 6:30PM - Impact of Ocean Cleanups

Let’s investigate all of the ways ocean cleanups are conducted along the California coastline. Together we will examine the impact of each project and get to know the major organizations making a difference. 

Monday, September 28th at 6:30PM - Giant Sea Bass Ecology

Learn about one of California’s top predators, the critically endangered Giant Black Sea Bass. Explore the history of this species and find out what’s being done to study and protect the “King of the Kelp Forest” all across California. 

Monday, October 12th at 6:30PM - Kelp Forest Restoration - Northern California

Smashing urchins? Restoring sea stars and reintroducing sea otters? Let’s dive into the world of kelp forest restoration along the Northern California coastline. Learn about the pathways available to you to get involved.

Monday, October 26th at 6:30PM - Kelp Forest Restoration - Southern California

Removing sargassum? Restoring abalone and thermal tolerant kelp? Let’s dive into the world of kelp forest restoration along the Southern California coastline. Learn about the pathways available to you to get involved.

Monday, November 9th at 6:30PM - Channel Islands Monitoring Program

The National Park Service has been running a Kelp Forest Monitoring Program in the Northern Channel Islands for 40 years. Let's look at their approach and their findings over the years.

Sunday, November 15th - Field Day in Long Beach 

Time TBD

Cost: $325, 5-class series + Field Day

Notes:

• Can't attend a zoom class? We will send you a recording.

• Cash, Credit Card, Charter Funds, and HFAC Credits are accepted

• Supervision by HFAC Live-Scanned educators and marine science educators

• The field day is a drop-off class for students ages 10-17 (parents are welcome to the field day with a ticket)

• Needs-based scholarship applications are available

• Refunds are available up until September 4th. After this date, no refunds are available.

Thank you to HFAC educator and founder of Bleu World organization, for another exciting marine science class!

Questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out!

Enrolling with Charter Funds? Select "Manual Payment" at checkout, and submit your purchase order with your school.