Kelp Forest Quest
Take a deeper look into the kelp forest ecosystem. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of magnificent kelp forests, home to thousands of animals that rely upon the kelp for food, shelter, and survival. Start with a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and then gear up with a mask and snorkel to explore the diversity of life found beneath the canopy of the kelp! From above, hike along the coast and enjoy the rhythmic swaying of the kelp canopies in the waves. Then grab a paddle and a partner and hop on board a kayak to observe sea otters - the kings of the kelp forest, before diving into the microscopic life of the kelp forest with plankton investigations. Campers must be able to swim.
Activities: Snorkeling (gear provided), kayaking, boogie-boarding, dissection, plankton studies, algae pressing, visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, introduction to scientific illustration.
Ages: 12-15
Location: Includes dorms and meals at CSUMB and transportation to activity sites
Session 1
June 12 - 16
Session 2
July 10 - 14
Keepers of the Coast
Become a champion of the ocean during this marine science and conservation themed week! Tour research centers around the bay, learn about marine science careers, and meet with scientists working in the field. Explore different conservation efforts with local ocean advocates. Delve deeper into science as we conduct tidepool-monitoring projects and dissect a local fish species. Then get ready for adventures as we head out for a kayak at sunset, learn how to surf, and set sail on the bay, looking for whales along the way. Campers must be able to swim.
Activities: Sunset kayaking, surfing (gear provided), tidepool monitoring, whale watching, boogie boarding, visit to marine science centers, dissection, meeting with conservation researchers and advocates.
Ages: 12-15
Location: Includes dorms and meals at CSUMB and transportation to activity sites
Session 1
June 19 - 23
Session 2
July 3 - 7
We Love Science
Join us for an exciting week delving into the dynamic marine environments of the central coast! This field-oriented, hands-on program will investigate a variety of marine ecosystems while learning about human impacts on our bay and the world’s oceans. Be introduced to the amazing organisms that inhabit these ecosystems on a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, explore the adaptations of sharks and marine mammals, and dissect a local fish species. Meet fellow ocean-lovers and advocates along the way as we surf, kayak and adventure together! Campers must be able to swim.
Activities: surfing (gear provided), kayaking, coastal hiking, dissection, sand crab studies, boogie boarding, shark night hike, marine mammal artifacts, visit to Monterey Bay Aquarium
Ages: 10-13
Location: Includes dorms and meals at CSUMB and transportation to activity sites
Session 1
June 26 - 30
Session 2
July 17 - 21