Our 2023/2024 Exploring the Science of Seaweed Farming program is in 15 schools (11 in 2022/2023) in 7 Maine Counties (Lincoln, Androscoggin, Cumberland, York, Kennebec, Piscataquis, Hancock). This experiential program is a school-based effort exploring the conditions under which macro-algae grows and directed toward a better understanding of an industry that is having a positive economic impact worldwide and is stimulating economic growth in Maine. The marine environment is facing severe challenges due to climate change, pollution, ocean acidification, human development, and invasive species. This program stimulates investigation exploring these issues, challenges students and teachers to think critically about future problems and possible solutions, and helps students gain a greater understanding of where they live and have a stronger sense of place.
In a related matter, we hope that our abstract focusing on seaweed farming education submitted to the Northeast Aquaculture Conference & Exposition (NACE) is accepted and we will be counted as one of the presenters at the January 2024 conference in Rhode Island.
Remembering a good friend
It is with great sadness that we share news of the passing of our good friend Peter Fischer. Peter was co-owner of Maine Sea Farms in Clark Cove on the Damariscotta River with Seth Barker who passed away in 2022. He was a strong supporter of our in-school seaweed aquaculture program and will be greatly missed by everyone at BSSC.
