Anemones, jellyfish, polyps. Ancient animals that have been doing just fine in these waters for a very long time.
In this program, students slow down and take a proper look. Working with live specimens kept in tanks at the Boathouse, they explore the major mollusk groups up close, learning their behaviors, life histories, and the role each plays in the health of the bay.
The program includes a squid dissection and a citizen science component on the rocky shore, where students record species distribution data. Culinary aspects are woven in for groups that want that connection to the coast's food traditions.
Because the animals live here at the Boathouse, this program runs any time of year. No tide tables required. Topics are taught at the level of your group.
Program Details
Availability: Fall and spring bloom seasons
For: Kindergarten through college
Duration: 2 to 4 hours
Location: The Boathouse, Garibaldi
Includes: Live tidepool tank exploration, behavior and life history across three groups, sea anemone dissection, plankton tow, invasive species, engineering activity on salinity and buoyancy
Ready to plan a trip?
Reach out to our education team to check availability and find the right program for your group.