Guest speakers, field trips add depth to the BSSC experience

BSSC students work on an experiment during a field trip to Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences in East Boothbay. Robert Crink photo

One of the many great things about the Boothbay Sea and Science Center is the opportunity to learn from guest speakers and explore our community. This summer BSSC students were excited to visit places like Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, Washburn & Doughty, Nathaniel S. Wilson Sailmaker Sail Loft, and the Boothbay Region Refuse Transfer Station. Guest speakers also came to BSSC from the University of Maine, Darling Marine Center, Bigelow Laboratory, Maine Maritime Academy, Norumbega Oyster Farm, Nathaniel S. Wilson Sail Loft, Down East Gallery, and local schools bringing different perspectives to our table. Notably, BSSC was fortunate to receive a visit from Dr. Eric Annis, a professor at Hood College in Maryland. Dr. Annis talked about his ongoing study of larval lobsters … leaving behind some of his research sample for the students to take care of throughout the summer.

From our parents

BSSC’s thematic programming is one of its strongest components. All three of our campers (ages 5, 8, 13) were enthused by the topics and methods of exploration. They came home curious and eager to learn more ocean science related concepts.

LM

My daughter enjoys BSSC very much. She likes swimming and especially science. She likes getting “jobs” on the boat. She really enjoyed this week’s movie about the 16 year old who sallied the world by herself.

KW

Our child was super excited about the seaweed identification and that knowledge really presented when we kayaked out to spectacle island to camp and encountered many different types of seaweed. She loves the camp! Everything. One noticeable difference was that our child was able to identify the different types of seaweed on the coast and in the water while we went out kayaking.

LP

You were the best organized communicators of the three camps she went to last summer – thank you! She loved the data collecting and science portions, that felt really unique to your program.

KSL

Everything is fantastic! We really appreciate this stellar program and thank you for providing such wonderful enrichment and a unique experience for the students. Eleanor has been anticipating this program for months- having the time of her life.

EB

We loved the overnight on the Schooner Tyrone. Anytime this is a possibility, please make it available for the kids. It was such a wonderful opportunity. The highlight of the summer!

RS

I value the balance between time on the water and the educational component adding to their overall respect/perspective. The Olympics were also a huge hit this year!! A great balance between skills, education and good old fashioned summer camp fun!

KW