Harbor Branch Boat Trip

On March 7 and 8, Life Science students in seventh grade were treated to a boat ride through the Indian River Lagoon area surrounding the FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute. Guided by researcher Samantha McGuire, students were exposed to a wide variety of native animal and plant species found in this local ecosystem, from bottle-nosed dolphins and brown pelicans to mangroves and sea grasses. This was an excellent opportunity for students to expand what they learned during the Florida ecosystems unit as they observed characteristics of estuaries, barrier islands and sandy coastlines up close. Samantha discussed both current and past research conducted in the lagoon and demonstrated some of the tools used. It was a great learning experience for both the teachers and the students who took part and hopefully will inspire some of the students to take the marine biology courses offered when they get into the Upper School.

Check out a photo album of highlights here.