School Outreach Programs

The Amazing Oysters and Water Quality

Did you know that one single adult oyster can filter up to 60 gallons of water per day? Through filtration, oyster reefs can improve water quality by removing pollutants and controlling algal blooms. Using sampling equipment, students test a water sample for various water quality parameters (salinity, temperature, sedimentation, dissolved oxygen). They also examine a miniature oyster reef, measure oysters, and identify organisms living on the reef.

1 hr, 5th grade and up

All about Whelks and Oysters

By using two of coastal Georgia’s most famous shellfish (oysters and whelks) comparisons are made between the classes Bivalvia and Gastropoda. Differences in external anatomy and life history are explored via live specimens and a “hands-on approach”.

1 hr, 5th grade and up

Diversity Study Lab

Students are introduced to a diverse number of organisms that live in the coastal habitats. They will use a sample of coastal marine organisms to categorize, identify, count and apply the diversity index formula. Student utilize identification and formula worksheets to calculate a biological index.

1.5 hr, 9th grade and up

Each Programs (off site) is $80/session

1. for groups up to (no more than) 25 people with larger groups splitting over 2 sessions
2. 45 min. in length
3. travel fee of $30 for sites > 30 miles from UGA MECA

Assembly programs:

Coastal Reptiles Program - $250/program

1. grades 5 and up for 51 – 200 students at a time
2. up to 60 min. in length
3. travel fee of $30 for sites > 30 miles from UGA MECA

Ocean Animals and other programs - $200/hour for up to 100 students and $300/hour for up to 200 students

grades K and up ( travel fee of $30 for sites > 30 miles from UGA MECA )

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