During week 8 at Boothbay Sea and Science Center, students explored a variety of fisheries practices that ranged from recreational to large scale commercial companies. They learned how different methods of fishing impact marine life, and why regulations are essential for maintaining our fisheries. With another week of sunshine, we took full advantage of outdoor lessons, ocean views, and hands-on learning.

We welcomed our guest speaker and former BSSC Science Instructor, Emma Dullaert. Emma is a PhD student at the University of Maine who is currently working with the Maine Department of Marine Resources studying lobster molting, particularly the size of the molts. She explained how measuring molts reveals patterns in lobster growth and population growth. Emma shared her daily work routine, from hauling lobsters to analyzing data, and explained how this research supports the sustainable management of one of Maine's iconic fisheries. The students asked thoughtful questions throughout her visit, and her live lobster demonstration was a very memorable moment.

Last week, students also drew and labeled lobster anatomy, using live specimens and reference guides to study their structure. We were especially excited to put our lobster boat to work, now equipped with fish finding sonar technology, by taking our Stay’s’l group fishing in Linekin Bay. Many of our “fishermen” reeled in mackerel and cunners!

The week's most talked about activity was our Fish Market game, a fast-paced outdoor simulation that turned students into fishermen. Each student “caught” their own fish by going to different “fishing spots” sectioned around the property. Using a dice fish were caught by rolling a 1 or a 6. Once caught students decided to keep the fish or put it back. At the market, they practiced negotiating prices, upgrading gear to increase catch limits, and obtaining licenses to fish different species. This interactive game had students laughing, and without even realizing it, learning the complexities of managing a fishery while keeping it sustainable.

By the end of the week, our budding scientists had a deeper appreciation for the balance between harvesting from the sea and protecting its future. They walked away with not only new knowledge about different fisheries, but also a firsthand experience of teamwork, hard work, and respect for our ocean.

On the sailing side last week the Mizzens (ages 5-8) and Stay’s’ls (ages 9-17) covered all the bases. The Stay’s’ls worked on their rowing and kayaking skills, sailed Turnabout and Sonar sailboats and fished from the Center’s lobster boat. Because so many of our sailors earned skill beads for tacking, gybing, rowing, and knot tying, the bracelet bucket was full of many colorful beads! The Mizzen group learned many of the same things and although many did not get a chance to kayak, most had time for a rowing test, with almost everyone earning their rowing skill bead. The wind was so good during the mornings that the Mizzens sailed on the Turnabout sailboats every day except for Thursday, when they met Captain Charlie Perry who talked about how he completed the Great Loop on his boat Promises, and Friday when they got a chance to sail on the Sonar sailboats for their second time this summer. Week 8 was filled with many fun surprises, and it was the perfect leadup to what will be a great final week.