2013 marine science consortium course catalog - web view

2013 Course Catalog

The Marine Science Consortium

Wallops Island, VA

2 Phone (757) 824-5636

Message from the Consortium’s Executive Director

Welcome to The Marine Science Consortium! Our mission is to educate folks about the unique mid-Atlantic coastal region and our program calendar is full of opportunities that will entice a broad range of interests. Each year we welcome thousands of participants from all over the country to our campus to embark on a marine science adventure. Whether you are a teacher looking for hands-on learning opportunities for your students, a college faculty member seeking the perfect field site, or someone with a personal interest in marine biology, birding, kayaking, photography, maritime history or more, we have it all right at our finger tips here on the Eastern Shore.

The Marine Science Consortium is located near a wealth of ecologically significant and environmentally rich habitats, such as productive saltmarshes, pristine barrier beaches, peaceful cypress swamps, and sheltering maritime forests. We don’t just teach about the environment, we explore it. After all, we are all about being “hands-on, and feet-wet”. Visitors to this isolated area are able to participate in a culture and lifestyle that has long been forgotten in other parts of the country. A day of biking here can take you clear across the peninsula, from ocean to bay, past century-old farms and Victorian style homes. In the evening, hear a lecture on local history, or relax to the maritime tunes of local musicians.

Our 30 acre campus is also a treasure with green buildings and open lawns and many places to network with other program participants. The Education Center is a hub of activity where school children, college students, and adults of all ages create an exciting educational atmosphere in classrooms equipped with microscopes, aquaria, and touch tanks to get a closer look at organisms collected in the field. Field trips on our Research Vessels or along the barrier island beaches and dunes teach the importance of coastal ecosystems and the science used to understand them.

We hope you will join us this year as we celebrate this region’s nature and stories through our educational programs. Whatever you do at The Marine Science Consortium, you can be assured of an experience that connects you with the unique nature and culture on our mid-Atlantic coast and leaves you with a lasting sense of wonder.

Naturally,

Amber L. Parker

Executive Director

2 Letter from the Director

4 Program Calendar

6 Summer Camps

10 Family Programs

14 Adult Workshops and Courses

18 School Programs

20 College Programs

22 Program Registration

22 Location

23 About the MSC

3 Visit www.msconsortium.org

© J

im C

lark

JANUARY

23-25 Homeschoolers Winter Coastal Ecology

28-30 Homeschoolers Winter Animal Adaptations & Survival

FEBRUARY

4-6 Homeschoolers Winter

Animal Adaptations &

Survival

6-8 Homeschoolers Winter

Coastal Ecology

APRIL 11-13 Homeschoolers Marine

Science Adventure

MAY

9-11 Homeschoolers Marine Science Adventure

12 Brunch and Bouquet Mother’s Day Boat Trip

24-27 Family Adventure Camp

8 Wetlands of the

Eastern Shore Kayak

Paddle

14-16 Daddy and Me Science Adventure

21 Under the Sea

Workshop

28 Fintastic Fish

Workshop

JULY

6 The Eastern Shore Summer Scramble- A Unique Scavenger Hunt

12 Marsh Mysteries

Workshop

19 Incredible Inverts

Workshop

26 Fish Printing

Workshop

AUGUST

2 Wonders of Wallops

Island Workshop

Youth Summer Camps and Day Camps

Family Programs and Adventure Camps

MARCH

29- Apr 5 Spring Break Day

Camp

JUNE

17-21 Sea Squirts Day Camp

23-28 Budding Marine

Biologist Camp I

24-28 Marine Adventure

Science Day Camp

30- July 5 Dangerous Creatures

and Ocean Predators

Camp

30- July 5 Junior Naturalist

Camp

7-12 Budding Marine

Biologist Camp II

8-12 Marine Adventure Science Day Camp

14-19 Beg. Kayaking Camp

14-19 Focus on Fishes Camp

14-19 Ichthyology Camp

21-26 Coastal Mammals

Camp

28- Aug 2 Intermediate

Kayaking and Coastal

Oceanography Camp

28- Aug 2 Marine Invertebrates

Camp

29– Aug 2 Sea Squirts Day Camp

AUGUST

4-7 Young Coastal Explorer Camp 3-day

11-14 Budding Marine Biologist Camp-3 day

12-16 Coastal Studies Day Camp

JULY

JUNE 9 Boat Trip- Exploring

Cockle Creek

16-18 Boy Scout Merit Badge

Weekend

19-23 Homeschoolers Summer Coastal Ecology Course

30- Sept 2 Family Adventure Camp

SEPTEMBER 6-8 Project Wet and Project

Wild Certification

12-14 Homeschoolers Marine

Science Adventure

14 Stargazers Astronomy

Workshop

28 Stargazers Astronomy

Workshop

OCTOBER 6-9 Homeschoolers

Returners Marine

Science Adventure

11-14 Boy Scout Merit Badge

Weekend

4 Phone (757) 824-5636

Adult Courses and Workshops FEBRUARY 14 Nature Lovers Dinner

Event

16 Love Birds Valentines

Day Birding Class

22-24 Winter Naturalist

Weekend

MARCH 17-22 Coastal Basketry

Workshop

APRIL

14-19 Coastal Basketry

Workshop

20 Hand Spinning and Natural Dyeing Workshop

28-May 3 Birding Virginia’s

Eastern Shore

MAY

3-6 Beginner to Intermediate– Digital Nature Photography Workshop

6-9 Bicycling the Eastern

Shore of Virginia

12-17 Discover the Islands of Virginia’s Eastern Shore

20-23 Bicycling the Eastern

Shore of Virginia

26-31 Kayaking the Eastern Shore: The Chesapeake and Atlantic

JUNE

1 Native American Tools and Flint Knapping Workshop

3-6 Wild Ponies, Culture and History of Virginia’s Eastern Shore

8 Digital Photography

Day Workshop

9-16 Kayak Building and Coastal Ecology Workshop

17-20 Bicycling the Eastern Shore of Virginia

JULY


AUGUST

4-11 Kayak Building and Coastal Ecology Workshop





30-Sept. 2 Eastern Shore Kayaking & Cycling Adventure

SEPTEMBER



Workshop



29-Oct 4 Kayaking the Eastern Shore: The Chesapeake and Atlantic

OCTOBER



19 Digital Photography

Day Workshop

19 Hand Spinning and Natural Dyeing Workshop

19 Nature Journaling Workshop

19 Native American Tools and Flint Knapping Workshop


NOVEMBER


6-10 Intermediate to Advanced- Digital Nature Photography Workshop


Workshop

14-17 Delmarva Nature &

Wildlife Photography

Summit

DECEMBER 6-8 Winter Birding

Colloquium


6

Summer campers seining for organisms at

Kiptopeke State Park.


Summer Programs at the Marine Science Consortium give campers the opportunity to

investigate beaches, marshes, and mud flats as they explore the amazing variety of life in and

around coastal bays. We have great counselors with a low camper/staff ratio to assure safety and

personal attention. Along with educational marine-based lessons and activities, campers

participate in a variety of arts and crafts, games, and many other traditional camp activities. Fees

for weeklong summer camps are $649. Fees for 3-day summer camps are $319 and $349. Camp

fees include instruction, meals, lodging, research cruises, and materials.

Budding Marine Biologist Residential Camp Ages 10-12 These camps are for students who have completed grades 4-6 and are new to the worlds of biology and summer camp. Campers explore coastal habitats, interact with marine and terrestrial creatures and spend the evenings enjoying traditional summer camp activities.

Budding Marine Biologists I and II: June 23-28 and July 7-12 Explore the variety of barrier island environments, ranging from sandy beaches to protected wetlands. Come face-to-face with many of the wondrous marine organisms that call Chincoteague, Assateague, and Wallops Islands home. Collect plants and animals to observe and identify during interactive lab sessions aboard one of the Consortium's research vessels .

Budding Marine Biologists 3-Day: August 11-14 (fee is $349) Many of the same great camp experiences as our full week Budding Marine Biologist Camp, but for fewer nights! Great for first time campers who don’t want to spend a full week at camp.

“This camp was full of activities, and kept me busy. They let me have one of the best experiences ever!”

- summer camper ‘12

Young Coast Explorer’s August 4-7 (fee is $319) Kids will have a blast at our newest camp offering! During this three night overnight camp, campers will explore the beach, learn about all of our cool coastal ecosystems and play fun nature games! We will spend our evenings enjoying traditional camp activities like campfires with s'mores. Our experi-enced Marine Science Educators will be providing instruction, and Summer Camp Counselors will be staying overnight in the dormitories.

Young Coastal Explorer’s Residential Camp Ages 8-9 This camp is for students who have completed grades 2-4 and are excited to venture into the great outdoors of the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Campers get an introduction into coastal environments with hands-on, feet-wet fun.

Junior Marine Biologist Residential Camps Ages 13-15 These courses are for students who have completed grades 7-9 and are interested in learning about selected topics in biology, ecology, and the natural world.

Focus on Fishes : July 14-19 There’s nothing fishy about this great opportunity! Ever wondered exactly how fish affect their ecosystems and how ecosystems impact fish? Or how people and fish influence each other? During this camp, participants answer these questions as they discover the world of fish through hands on activities like a collecting trip on our research vessel, seining and sieving for organisms in tidal creeks, and more!

Beginner’s Kayaking Camp July 14-19 See the Shore from a new perspective! Paddle through areas only accessible by kayak, visit our salt marshes, secluded beaches and more during this week-long adventure. Participants will split their time between campus classrooms and the great outdoor classrooms of Eastern Shore waterways. They also get to trade in their kayaks for a ½ day boat trip on one of our research vessels to collect marine plants and animals. Campers learn proper paddling instruction and nautical skills, so this course is perfect for beginners!

Dangerous Creatures and Ocean Predators: June 30- July 5 It all comes down to food! Whether self-protection is their main priority or outsmarting and overwhelming the defenses of others is more their style, most dangerous creatures are the way they are because of the food chain. Throughout the week, explore areas of Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology to determine what it takes to survive the jaws and talons of some of nature’s most finely tuned predators.

Junior Naturalist: June 30- July 5 Are you the type of kid who likes to turn over every rock and log to see what’s underneath? Then this is the camp for you! Explore the many habitats of the Eastern Shore and learn about the plants and animals that call this unique region home. Kayak in one of the northernmost Cyprus swamps, take a cruise on one of our research vessels, hike through the maritime forest, bird-watch at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, and more! We’ll explore on a microscopic scale as well – have you ever seen a copepod? Do you even know what a copepod is? This is your chance to find out!

Coastal Mammals: July 21-26 Dolphins, ponies, squirrels, oh my! The Eastern Shore is home to a unique collection of mammals, including bottle-nosed dolphins, the endangered Delmarva Fox Squirrel, and the famous wild ponies of Assateague Island. During this camp, participants will learn the basics of mammalogy and how mammals survive and interact in the coastal and marine habitats of Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Set live-traps for small mammals on the MSC campus, learn how to identify dolphins for dolphin research, and take home your very own mammal skull.

Intermediate Kayaking Camp: July 28 - August 2 Embark on a week of kayaking that will put you up close and personal with the diverse ecology of the Atlantic coastal shore, including flora and fauna of the salt marshes, brackish bays, cypress swamps, and secluded beaches. Use field guides to identify animals and plants in the field and create your own coastal field journal to take home. Using scientific sampling and observation equipment, you will engage in remote, hands-on science like never before. This camp is for the more advanced kayaker. If you have been kayaking before, know the basics and are comfortable being in a kayak for most of the day, then this camp is perfect for you!

8 Phone (757) 824-5636


Aspiring Marine Biologist Residential Camps Ages 16-18 These courses are designed for high school students who have completed grades 10-12 and are looking for in-depth exposure to an area within the field of marine biology. Participants in these programs are engaged in educational activities throughout most of the day and evenings. During each in-depth course, students will have the opportunity to meet with a college professor and college students taking classes on the MSC campus.

Ichthyology: July 14-19 Fascinated by fishes? Then this is the program for you! Use seines to collect fish from various habitats, and then try your hand at using an otter trawl aboard the research vessels. Using the local fishes we’ve collected as an example, we will then illustrate the morphological adaptations, anatomy, physiology, and systems of this major vertebrate group. Field collections will also provide an opportunity to observe the relationships of these animals to their biotic and physical environment.

Marine Invertebrates: July 28-August 2 Attention Vertebrates! A stunning 97% of the world's organisms lack a backbone! If you are interested in spineless marine creatures, such as squid, blue crabs, and sea stars, then this program is perfect for you. Participants will discover the remarkable life history, behavior, development, physiology, and anatomy of the main phyla of invertebrates. We place special emphasis on coastal Atlantic marine species. Fieldwork and laboratory time will focus on collection and identification of local invertebrates, with opportunities for behavioral experimentation.

Intermediate Kayaking Camp: July 28 - August 2 Embark on a week of kayaking that will put you up close and personal with the diverse ecology that the Atlantic coastal shore has to offer, including flora and fauna of the salt marshes, brackish bays, cypress swamps, and secluded beaches. Using scientific sampling and observation equipment, you will engage in remote, hands-on science like never before. This camp is for the more advanced kayaker. If you have been kayaking before and know the basics then this camp is perfect for you!

Shark caught during a summer trawl aboard a MSC

research vessel.

10

Family campers hike

the Trail of Change at

Pocomoke River State

Park.


Family Adventure Camp

Family Camps at The Marine Science Consortium are an ideal way for your family to get away,

unwind, and enjoy a holiday weekend on the beautiful coastal islands of the Eastern Shore of Virginia!

Spend time with your family discovering and learning about the world of marine science. We currently

offer two Family Camps over the Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. This could be the perfect

opportunity for a pre-summer or end of the summer getaway for your family. We provide the meals

and activities, so your family can focus on new experiences, share stories and laugh together in a

relaxed outdoor atmosphere. You will not regret the decision, and your family will thank you over and

over again!

Fees are per person and all-inclusive. This includes all activities, housing, meals,

seafood feast, family portrait and camp t-shirt

Marine Science Boat Trips (9 and Up)

Kayaking and Canoeing

Nature Hikes

Fun Field Trips

Visit to Wallops NASA Facility

Games and activities

Marsh ecology field trip

Beach Trip

Holiday grill out

Bonding together as a family

And Much Much More!

Highlights of Family Camp

" This has been one of the best family vacations we have ever had! The activities are so diverse and the staff so friendly that the kids are already talking about coming back next year." - family camp participant

WEEKEND SESSION :

Memorial Day May 24-27, 2013

Labor Day August 30 - September 2, 2013

Weekend Family Camp

All Ages

WEEKEND FAMILY CAMP TUITION PRICE Adult (19+) $275 per person

Teen (13-18) $250 per person Youth (9-12) $225 per person

Child (5-8) $175per person Young Child (3-4) $75 per person

Infant (0-2) Free

Spend time with the family, explore new environments, and learn about our amazing

natural world while The Marine Science Consortium does the organization and planning for you! The

Marine Science Consortium offers a variety of family programs and camps that explore the natural

history of our coastal and marine environments through hands-on learning. Families can throw a

trawl net and collect marine creatures on an ocean research vessel, explore marine habitats, kayak

through tidal creeks, walk knee deep in marsh mud and enjoy the sun on a barrier island beach. Wild

Ponies, egrets and horseshoe crabs await you!

12 Phone (757) 824-5636

Boy Scout Merit Badge Weekend This is a weekend-long course to give Scouts all the necessary knowledge and skills to complete the requirements for the 3 offered merit badges. Boy scouts must attend the program with an adult chaperone Program cost covers lodging, instruction, meals and materials.

Program Date: 08/16/2013-08/18/2013 Program Cost : $165 per person

Program Date: 10/11/2013-10/14/2013 Program Cost : $195 per person

Family Day Events These day workshops are for curious children and their inquisitive guardians. Kids will discover the unique habitats of the Eastern Shore and the interesting creatures that live in them. Classes include hands-on activities, games, fieldwork and active observation of Marine Animals!

Please visit our website or call for program cost and additional information.

06/08/2013-Family Wetlands of the Eastern

Shore Kayak Paddle

06/21/2013- Under the Sea

06/28/2013 - Fintastic Fish

07/12/2012- Marsh Mysteries

07/19/2012- Incredible Inverts

07/26/2013– Fish Printing

08/02/2013- Wonders of Wallops Island

08/09/2013-Boat Trip-Exploring Cockle Creek

09/14/2013-Stargazers Astronomy Workshop

09/28/2103-Stargazers Astronomy Workshop

Daddy and Me Weekend Do something different with the family this year. Celebrate Father’s Day with the MSC! Spend time with the family and learn about amazing and unique coastal environments. This weekend will include fun activities such as trawling on the boat, a marsh fieldtrip, intertidal seining, NASA visit, nature hikes and a range of fun family activities.

Program Cost : $165 per person Program Dates : 06/14/2013-06/16/2013

Eastern Shore Summer Scramble- A Unique Scavenger Hunt Looking to add some fun to your summer? How about an eco-tourism adventure on the Eastern Shore? Grab a group of friends, family or co-workers and get ready to compete! If you're up for the challenge, you'll be working as a team to answer questions and complete task related to the Eastern Shore of Virginia. The 3 teams with the most points win fabulous prize packages!

Program Date: 07/06/2013 Program Cost : $50 per team (1 team equals as

many people that can safely fit in a vehicle)

Brunch and Bouquet Mother’s Day Boat Trip Every mother deserves a special Mother’s Day. Treat your mom to a fun Mother’s day that she will not soon forget. First, enjoy a delicious a brunch prepared by our wonderful, on-site cook staff, present your mother with a gorgeous bouquet of local flora and finally take her on an educator assisted boat ride through the wetlands of the Eastern Shore. Take in the spectacular scenery while getting to spend quality time with mom! As part of the cruise you and your mother will get to discover all the unique organisms the Eastern Shore has to offer. Ages 16 and older.

Program Date: 05/12/2013

Program Cost : $40


Don't have a laboratory in your basement or an oceanic research vessel in your backyard? Don’t worry, here at the Marine Science Consortium we understand the challenges parents face when they teach science in the home. The Marine Science Consortium is your resource for bridging the gap between marine science curriculum and student understanding. Our Homeschoolers Workshops are tailored for the budding Marine Biologist in your home. Our workshops provide hands-on observation of marine environments and life forms as well as time to socialize with other young marine biologists. The course is all inclusive and includes meals, lodging, supplies, activities and fieldtrips.

Marine Science Adventure Ages 9-15 This is a 2-day course explores the bays, beaches, and maritime forests of Virginia's Eastern Shore are that the Marine Science Consortium's classroom. Both parents are welcome to attend with their homeschooled student(s). Younger siblings may also attend and participate in all program pieces except the research cruise field trip because of age restrictions.

Programs Dates:

04/11/2013-04/13/2013

05/09/2013-05/11/2013

09/12/2013-09/14/2013

Program Cost:

$125 first parent/chaperone

$145 all other participants

Summer Coastal Ecology Course All Ages Homeschool families will throw a trawl net and collect marine creatures on an ocean research vessel, explore marine habitats, kayak through tidal creeks, walk knee deep in marsh mud and enjoy the sun on a barrier island beach. This science based program is full of hands-on learning opportunities. We provide the meals and activities, so your family can focus on new experiences, learning, share stories and laughing together in a relaxed outdoor atmosphere.

Programs Dates:

08/19/2013-08/22/2013

Program Cost:


Winter Coastal Ecology or Winter Adaptions & Survival All Ages In Winter Coastal Ecology camp learn about winter constellations and winter tree I.D. Warm yourself by a campfire and listen to stories while you roast marshmallows. Migrating birds abound and snow covered beaches yield a bounty of shells. Come explore the shore during this special time of year. The Winter Animal Adaptations and Survival Program is a 2 day course that explains hibernation, migration and adaptation. Learn about how animals, birds and marine organisms all deal with the chill. These programs are open to all ages but it geared for 8 to 14 year olds. Students are usually divided into teaching groups based on age.

Programs Dates:

01/22/2014-01/24/2014

01/29/2014-01/31/2014

02/03/2014-02/05/2014 02/05/2014-02/07/2014

Program Cost:


$125 all other participants

14

Kayakers ready to launch in

Nassawango Creek.

The Marine Science Consortium offers a variety of adult day classes and weekend workshops that explore the natural history of our coastal and marine environments through hands-on learning. Whether you choose to peddle and paddle your way across the bucolic landscape of the Eastern Shore, make a basket or go birding you are sure to have an experience that will instill a lasting sense of wonder.

Winter Waterfowl Weekend Experience the beauty of the Eastern Shore’s islands while birding in this renowned destination for birders. This workshop emphasizes learning identification methods, understanding bird behavior, habitat, and conservation. We will bird at several hot spots on the Eastern Shore, including Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and Wallops Island. See the birds from a different perspective on a boat trip through the marshes and tidal creeks surrounding Chincoteague. Though we will focus on winter waterfowl ID, we’ll also add lots of other passerines and raptors to our list. Great for beginners and intermediate birders.

Program Date: 12/06/2013 - 12/08/2013

Program Cost: $245/participant

Eastern Shore Kayaking and Cycling Adventure Get ready for an active adventure as you cycle and paddle your way across the beautiful landscape of the Eastern Shore! Explore the Eastern Shore by bicycle and by kayak. This weekend adventure will take you along beautiful back-country roads and gorgeous wild rivers. A day long bike ride will take participants onto the barrier islands of Chincoteague and Assateague. Spend the second day exploring the magnificent Pocomoke River by kayak! The last morning will be spent taking a research cruise through one of the most productive ecosystems on earth. Participants will trawl to sample the myriad organisms found in the estuaries surrounding Chincoteague.

Program Date: 08/30/2013 - 09/02/2013

Program Cost: $365 per person

Native American Tools and Flint Knapping Workshop During the flint knapping workshop students will take a voyage back in time, learning the ancient skill of stone tool making. Tools and materials will be provided and each student will receive a flint knapping tool kit to take home. This workshop is perfect for beginner to intermediate knappers. It is sure to take you to the next level in your knapping ability.

Program Dates

06/01/2013

10/19/2013



Nature Journaling Workshop

Interested in honing your observation skills and seeing the world in new ways? Learn the techniques of keeping a Nature Journal! Nature journaling connects us with our surroundings in a new way and encourages us to make room in our lives for observation of the natural world. Through a series of drawing and writing exercises we will practice journaling techniques by recording our feelings, questions and observations. Program cost includes instruction, lunch, transportation to field sites and all nature journaling materials.

Program Date: 10/19/2013 Program Cost: $45/person

Hand Spinning and Natural Dyeing Workshop This program teaches participants the process of dyeing wool and how to turn it into yarn for knitting. This hands-on workshop will introduce participants to the pleasures of spinning wool and dyeing with native plants. Participants will use local in season flowers or nuts to create a dye pot and learn to use a hand spindle to spin wool. Each participant will receive a hand spindle and supply of wool to take home. Lunch is included.

Program Dates

04/20/13

10/19/13

Program Cost: $55/person

16

Photographer shooting waterfowl at sunrise on

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.

Digital Nature & Wildlife Photography Workshop The Digital Nature and Wildlife Photography Workshops offered through the Marine Science Consortium are tailored for the beginner through advanced level photographer. These courses are for those with an interest in unique ecosystems and in creating inspiring imagery with particular consideration for conservation and the environment. Workshops are small and are therefore tailored to the unique skill set of each individual. Workshop cost includes all instruction, transportation to field sites, meals and lodging.

Workshops are led by photographer Jim Clark. A contributing editor for Outdoor Photographer Magazine, Jim’s articles and images have also appeared in magazines such as Nature’s Best, Defenders, Wildlife Refuge, Wonderful West Virginia, Birder’s World, Country, Photo Media, and Wild Bird. In addition Jim has written several books and is the past President of the North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA). For more than thirty-six years, Jim has used his photography, writing, speaking, and teaching to inspire and motivate others. A naturalist first and foremost, Jim’s workshops always include a bit of natural history. He believes the more you know about your subject, the more your photography will stand out from the others. Both in the field and the classroom, Jim is a knowledgeable teacher and workshop leader. He works on a personal level to develop an artistic, informative, and enjoyable learning environment.

One Day Photography Workshop These one day courses are led by nature photographer Nikhil Bahl. Nikhil is an educator, author, lecturer and workshop instructor. His goal is to inspire people to appreciate the splendor of nature by becoming aware of that which is easily overlooked and by transforming the mundane into the exciting through contemplative and artistic interpretation. While his primary aim is to create art with his photographs, he also strives to document the natural world with an eye toward conservation and education. Nikhil’s instruction is focused on in-camera interpretation and developing personal vision. The hands-on instruction is targeted to improve your photographic vision and technique while the instant feedback accelerates the learning process.

Program Dates: 06/08/2013 10/19/2013



Spring 3-day Course

Program Date: 05/03/2013-05/06/2013


Fall 5-day Course

Program Date: 11/06/2013-11/10/2013


Delmarva Nature and Wildlife Photography Summit This three day conference will present full days of creative and professional education providing an exciting line up of workshops, comprehensive field sessions, photo tours, portfolio critiques, and social and networking opportunities. Photo tours and field session led by seasoned photography professionals, are set to provide participants with supreme photography opportunities. Comprehensive field sessions offer great hands-on experience and provide chances to capture stunning photos of natural subjects. Summit Workshops will explore the practical and theoretical aspects of image creation. From advanced photography software to equipment showings, in these workshops, you can expect to learn techniques and tips from professionals in the industry. Summit instructors rank at the highest levels in the field.

Program Date: 11/14/2013-11/17/2013


Fees include all instruction, transportation to field sites, meals and lodging.

Fees include all instruction, transportation to field sites,

meals and lodging.

Fees include all instruction, transportation to field sites,

and meals.

The School Program For over 40 years, MSC has offered students the chance to connect with their marine and coastal environments through hands-on exploration and inquiry based science. The mission of each experience is to instill an understanding and appreciation of interrelated marine habitats through scientific observation.

The 3-day Coastal Ecology program is MSC's signature experience for school students.

This program includes the following half day field trips: an oceanography research cruise, intertidal beach exploration, sand dune ecology, salt marsh trip, and maritime forest walk. Evening activities include oceanographic equipment discussion, macro-organism lab and micro-organism lab. One evening is left free for that all-important trip to the ice cream parlor or beach.

We also offer additional options for teachers in the form of hour and a half classes. Teachers can choose two of these classes in place of one of the traditional field trips. We are glad to work with teachers to choose the classes that they think will most benefit their students.

Although the Consortium staff conduct all field trips and labs, teachers are encouraged to take an active part by working with instructors to individualize the program in advance. Teachers may request changes in certain elements of instruction with the School Programs Coordinator in order to develop a program that best suits their curriculum and student needs. Instruction is geared to grade level and science background, and while it is most effective for middle and high school students it may be modified easily for 4th grade and lower.

What if your classroom included acres of pristine salt marsh, windswept coastal dunes, towering maritime forests, intertidal coves, and wild ponies? What if your lessons included a research cruise along tidal creeks and trips to a national park and national wildlife refuge? What if every discovery was met with wonder and a desire to know more? You experience all of this and more when you attend the unique and dynamic educational field trips of the Marine Science Consortium.

18 Phone (757) 824-5636

School students chasing intertidal fish into

waiting nets at Little Toms Cove.

" Thank you for showing us the beauty under the mud." -student

Why should your students participate in programs at MSC?

In-depth, hands-on science taught by experienced staff

Great food and comfortable facilities

Reasonable rates which cover all costs

Support throughout the year to make planning easy

Close to many major cities and airports, 3 hour drive from Washington D.C., Baltimore, and 2 hours from Virginia Beach

Our program is Correlated to Virginia State Education Standards

Planning your Trip to Wallops Island The school program is offered throughout the school year. Special arrangements can be made for a limited number of students during the summer. Teachers may schedule their groups to arrive Sunday afternoon and depart Wednesday after lunch or to arrive Wednesday afternoon and depart Saturday after lunch. Programs longer or shorter than the 3-day option will be scheduled according to facility availability. Groups are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis, so reservations should be made early.

Program Options

MSC offers the following programs for schools.

Contact us for information regarding curriculum

correlation.

Oceanography Lab and Research Cruise

Includes water sampling, salinity,

temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, currents,

turbidity, benthic sample, and trawl. Students

analyze collected data during the evening lab.

Intertidal Beaches Students begin by learning

how tides work and interact with the coast. This

class also involves sampling for various

environmental parameters, species diversity and

distribution, and adaptations.

Organism Labs Students use dichotomous keys,

field guides and microscopes to examine plants

and organisms, as well as plankton collected in

the field.

Salt Marsh Identification of flora and fauna, food

webs, trophic levels, nutrient cycles, marsh

formation and tidal zonation. Students will also

do a “productivity plunge” where they will get to

experience the marsh in true full immersion style.

Dune Ecology Explanation of littoral currents,

wave energy, beach formation, sediment

deposition, distribution of flora and fauna, and

ecological succession. This class also includes

beach exploration and shell collection and

identification.

Maritime Forest Students will walk through the

Maritime Forest on Assateague Island to learn

more about forest ecology and the flora and fauna

of the upland areas.

Sand During this class, students will learn where

sand comes from and what it is made of,

properties of sand, and make their own sand

sample cards to look at under magnification.

Orienteering This class is a way for students to

become familiar with using a compass, reading

maps, and orienting themselves to landmarks.

Watersheds Students will learn about the

characteristics of watersheds, how water moves

through them and how people impact their

watershed.

Special Topics - Interested in other topics? Our education staff can develop specialized topics to

meet your curricular needs. Contact our School Programs Coordinator at

[email protected] or 757-824-5636 X 110 to discuss what we can do for you!


" I think that your Wallops Island

middle and high school program

is one of the best things that

could happen to educate children

about marine science."

- middle school student

The College Program

MSC offers field-based, hands-on, intensive learning opportunities for university students. Unmatched biological diversity, pristine habitats, and hundreds of years of history and culture are just a sampling of what the shore has to offer! Access to largely untouched habitats and extensive marine and terrestrial biodiversity make the area ideal for ecology, biology and marine courses. The social sciences and arts can take advantage of the cultural richness and natural beauty.

Seeking an unforgettable educational experience? The Virginia’s barrier islands leave impressions that last a lifetime! Our field station features coastal ecosystems, state of the art facilities , reasonable pricing and phenomenal staff. Unmatched biological diversity, pristine habitats, and hundreds of years of history and culture are just a sampling of what you can share with your students during a trip to the shore!

20 Phone (757) 824-5636

Coastal Environmental Oceanography course

students study a sea turtle nest during a

summer field course.

Possible Field Trip Components

Research Cruise – inshore or offshore

Birding

Barrier Island Transect

Salt Marsh Expedition

Dune Exploration

Coastal Forest Hike

Water Sampling

Organism Investigations

Cypress Swamp Hike or Paddle

Kayaking

And more!

Summer Courses Want to spend your summer days baking on a beach, balancing on a boat and trekking

through the marsh? You’ll emerge from a season of field work with experiences, knowledge and friendships that last a lifetime!

The college summer program at MSC consists of five 3-week sessions taught by faculty from member universities. Each course is worth 3

credits. Students may take 1 course each session.

Session 1 (May 20- June 7)

Marine Biology

Natural History of Mid-Atlantic Shore

Marine Invertebrates

Coral Reef Ecology

Coastal Herpetology

Session 2 (June 10- June 28)

Ichthyology

Field Methods

Marine Ecology

Coastal Ornithology

Natural Science Drawing

Precalculus

Introduction to Literature

Session 3 (July 1 – July 19)

Marine Mammals

Conservation Biology

Marine Ichthyology

Coastal Ecophysiology

Intro to Molecular Biotechnology

Session 4 (July 22- August 9)

Coastal Environmental Oceanography

Digital Imaging & Design

Marine Ecology

Marine Invertebrates

Coastal & Wetland Hydrology

Volunteers and Interns Other opportunities that exist for college students include alternative spring break activities, volunteer positions, internships and jobs. Check our website or contact the college coordinator for more information.

Location Our campus is ideally located on the Eastern Shore of Virginia between the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. The region is biologically diverse, geologically dynamic and culturally rich. Unique maritime and upland forests, as well as bald cypress swamps, comprise the terrestrial ecosystems. Additional resources nearby include Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, Assateague National Seashore, and NASA Wallops Flight Facility.


Facilities and Equipment The MSC owns and operates a 50' research vessel for offshore work, two 40' barge-style vessels, small boats and kayaks. The campus boasts wet and dry laboratories, classrooms, field equipment, and dormitory space for up to 150 university students, a dining hall, indoor and outdoor recreational space and a book store. Consortium staff are available to assist groups on vessels, field trips or in the lab.

Field Experiences Year round, MSC provides a fully operational

field station for college faculty and program coordinators. University groups typically spend 2-4 days experiencing the wonders of barrier islands as a piece of their regular course curriculum.

22 Phone (757) 824-5636

Designed by C. Parker McMullen Bushman

MB Photography and Design

ww.mbphotographyanddesign.com

Photography Jim Clark

C. Parker McMullen Bushman

Henley Middle School

MSC Staff

The Marine Science Consortium

34001 Mill Dam Road

Wallops Island VA 23337

Phone: (757) 824-5636

Fax: (757) 824-5638

[email protected]

www.msconsortium.org

Location

The Marine Science Consortium is located on the Eastern Shore of Virginia near the Island of Chincoteague. It is about three hours south of Baltimore, MD and Washington D.C. and about two hours north of Norfolk, VA.

To get to the Marine Science Consortium, follow Route 13 (also called Ocean Highway or Lankford Highway). Route 13 is the prominent hwy on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Follow Route 13 to the traffic light at VA 175E (T’s Corner and Chincoteague Road). There will be a sign for Chincoteague and Assateague Islands. This is approximately 4 miles south of the Maryland-Virginia border on the Delmarva Peninsula. Take VA 175 E toward Chincoteague for approximately 3 miles. At the traffic light take a left onto Atlantic Road. At the end of Atlantic Road (approx. 0.5 miles) bear left onto Mill Dam Road. The Consortium is located on your right.

Program Registration Registering for a program at the MSC is easy! You

can register for many of our programs on our Website. You can also call to register by phone.

Program fees are all-inclusive and include meals, lodging, instruction, and materials unless other-wise noted. Please call for commuter rates if you

will not be lodging on site.

The MSC’s Research Vessel, the

Phillip N. Parker, is a 47ft diesel

powered crew vessel used mostly

for cruises beyond the inlet and up

to 25 miles off shore.


Board of Directors

Dr. Javier Cevallos- Board Chairperson

President Kutztown University

Dr. Francine McNairy

President Millersville University

Dr. Marcia Welsh

President East Stroudsburg University

Dr. William Ruud

President Shippensburg University

Dr. David Soltz

Bloomsburg University

Dr. Michael Fiorentino, Jr

Lock Haven University

Dr. Cheryl Norton

Slippery Rock University

Staff

Amber Parker

Executive Director

Education Staff

Anne Armstrong

Education Program Manager

Ali Redman

College Coordinator

Parker McMullen-Bushman

Special Programs Coordinator

Alex Vandermeys

School Programs Coordinator

Office and Support Staff

Mark Baylis - Sr. Boat Captain

John Besecker - Operations Manager

Kennie Godwin - Groundskeeper

Eunice Handy - Cook

Levolia Handy - Cafeteria Shift Leader

Felara Hickman- Cook

Clifton Johnson - Dishwasher

Diane Lynch - Registrar

Adell Payton - Housekeeper

Francine Payton - Head Housekeeper

Dallas Fenton - Office and Finance Manager

Tony Smith - Maintenance Assistant

Robin Townsend - Cafeteria Shift Leader

Linda Wallop - Food Service Manager

Jimmy Whealton - Boat Captain

About Us The Marine Science Consortium is a residential field and research station located on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. In 1968, The Marine Science Consortium was founded by a consortium of three Pennsylvania state colleges. First located in Cape May, NJ, and then Lewes, DE, The Marine Science Consortium moved to its permanent site in the area of Wallops Island, VA. in the spring 1971. The campus, located next door to NASA’s Goddard Flight Facility, was named the “Wallops Island Marine Science Center”.

For the last four decades the Marine Science Consortium has taught thousands of school age, college, and adult students the wonders of what lies beneath the waters of the bays, marshes, and ocean surrounding Chincoteague and Assateague islands as well as what thrives on top, such as maritime forests and dunes. The MSC educates and inspires program participants about the ecosystems along the Mid-Atlantic Region through place-based, hands-on experiences. University membership has changed over the years and now consists of 13 member universities and colleges.

To accomplish its mission MSC offers a unique set of educational and research experiences, and collaborates closely with community partners such as NASA Wallops Flight Facility, US Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, and other public and private partners.

Mission Statement

The Marine Science Consortium provides outstanding multi-disciplinary, educational and research opportunities that celebrate the rich natural, cultural, economic, and technological resources of the mid-Atlantic Coastal region through field-based and hands-on learning, often in affiliation with multiple public and private partners.

The Marine Science Consortium is an independent 501©(3) private non-profit Equal Opportunity/

Affirmative Action institution affiliated with Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education. All

donations are tax-deductible as allowable by law.

Current Members

Bloomsburg University

East Stroudsburg University

Kutztown University

Lock Haven University

Millersville University

Saint Francis University

Shippensburg University

Slippery Rock University

Wilkes University

York College

Master Educators

Tara Bardar, Jim Evans, Emily Kingston, Mary McCumber, Grant Melville

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2013 marine science consortium course catalog - web view

Documents

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