The first week of Marine Science at the Boothbay Sea and Science Center was filled with exploration, discovery, and hands-on learning as campers immersed themselves in the diverse coastal ecosystem of Linekin Bay. 

Our younger campers spent the week becoming familiar with the BSSC waterfront and the incredible variety of life that calls it home. Armed with nets, buckets, and endless curiosity, they explored the shoreline collecting crabs, observing marine creatures, and learning about the rhythm of the tides. Tide pool investigations provided opportunities to discover everything from periwinkles and hermit crabs to seaweed and other fascinating intertidal organisms. 

Throughout the week, campers recorded their observations through nature journaling, learning how scientists use careful observation and documentation to better understand the natural world. Creative activities complemented their outdoor adventures, with campers crafting marine-themed creations inspired by the animals and habitats they encountered. These experiences encouraged campers to slow down, observe closely, and develop a deeper appreciation for the coastal environment. 

Older campers took their investigations a step further by participating in field-based scientific research. One highlight of the week involved collecting and measuring invasive green crabs as part of an ongoing effort to understand their impact on local ecosystems. Campers learned proper data collection techniques while contributing valuable observations about a species that plays a significant role in Maine’s coastal waters. 

The older group also embarked on a kayaking expedition to a nearby island, where they explored the shoreline, observed species, and documented their findings in detailed nature journal entries. The excursion provided an opportunity to connect classroom concepts with firsthand experiences in the field. 

Another major focus of the week was the study of plankton, the microscopic organisms that form the foundation of marine food webs. Campers conducted plankton tows from both the dock and by boat, collecting water samples to examine the tiny organisms living beneath the surface. Through these investigations, they gained a greater understanding of the critical role plankton play in supporting the health and productivity of Linekin Bay. 

From tide pools and crabs to kayaks and plankton, the first week of camp offered countless opportunities for learning and adventure. It was a fantastic start to the summer season, and we look forward to many more weeks of exploration, discovery, and stewardship along Maine’s coast. 

Last week at the Boothbay Sea and Science Center we were happy to welcome campers to their first week of summer camp. New students and familiar faces worked on their land as well as out on the water skills. This year in sailing we have a new bead system where kids can earn three different levels (Wood, Glass, and Bronze) that are centered around seven skills that include rigging and de-rigging, knots, tacking and gybing, sail trim, rowing, landing on the mooring/haul-off line, and last but not least kindness. Specifically, the kindness bead is given to campers who partake in an act of kindness toward someone at BSSC (i.e. instructor or another student). Something that was great this week is that we had the opportunity to get the kids on our two Sonars and two Precision 15 as well as our fleet of Turnabouts, and Rowboats. This means that students got a chance to earn all their beads, and some of them did!