Oregon Coast Aquarium Offers Aquarium Adventures Day Camp July 14-17

Young marine scientists examine the plants and animals residing at the Oregon Coast Aquarium as well as conducting field studies alon Oregon's central coast at Aquarium Adventures Day Camp July 14-17.

Newport, Ore. (PRWEB) Young marine scientists examine the plants and animals residing at the Oregon Coast Aquarium as well as conducting field studies along Oregons central coast at Aquarium Adventures Day Camp July 14-17. Campers between the ages of 8 and 12 explore behind-the-scenes areas, meet animal care staff, and view fish, invertebrate, marine bird and mammal feeds. Field study includes a wild wetland walk, a sandy beach scavenger hunt, tide pool exploration, and a wildlife cruise aboard the Discovery. The Aquarium Adventures Day Camp offers an extensive introduction to the various plants and animals found along Oregons coast, how an aquarium operates, and marine science careers," Chris Schmitz, Director of Public Programs for the Aquarium, said. While having fun and making new friends, campers come away with a better appreciation for Oregons coastal ecosystems, our role within them, and the need to preserve them." Camp is from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day.

While meeting with animal husbandry professionals, campers learn about various marine species residing at the Aquarium, what they eat, how their diets are prepared and fortified with vitamins, and watch as they are fed. They also discuss conservation issues and animal enrichment such as puzzle feeders and toys designed to challenge the animals while stimulating thought processes.

On the wildlife cruise, campers take in the sights, sounds, and smells of Newports picturesque Yaquina Bay and Oregons scenic central coast. An onboard naturalist provides insights about the seals, sea lions, and marine birds residing in the bay. Once Discovery hits the open sea, adventurers search for gray whales and calves, harbor porpoises, California sea lions, and numerous seabirds. Other camp activities include a squid dissection, slide and video presentations, and lessons using skins/scales, jaws and teeth, and other artifacts.

For members, the Aquarium Adventures Day Camp costs $115.00 and $120.00 for nonmembers. Space is limited, and interested parties should register by Monday, July 10 by calling (541) 867-3474 ext. 5301 or by surfing the Aquarium website at www.aquarium.org.

Aquarium Adventures Day Camp is made possible through the generous support of Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oregon.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is a private, nonprofit educational facility that offers people a fun way to understand Oregons unique coastal resources, so that future generations may cherish and conserve them. The facility is designed to be accessible to learners of all ages, ability levels and learning styles. In addition to offering public exhibits, the Aquarium serves nearly 50,000 schoolchildren annually, opening doors to new interests and introducing science in a meaningful way.

Its marine education specialists have developed a curriculum of 32 classes and programs for schools on various marine topics for students from preschool through the 12th grade. Self-guiding school materials are also available. Additional educational activities and downloadable lessons may be found on the Aquariums website at www.aquarium.org/education/.

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