Empowering ocean stewards: Restorative aquaculture and inclusive oyster farming education

2024 eeBLUE mini-grant awardee - Southern Maine

Project summary

Saltwater Classroom and Nauti Sisters Sea Farm, in partnership with Maine Sea Grant, are creating interactive experiences for third- to sixth-grade students in Southern Maine. Their accessible and engaging oyster curriculum will combine nature-based learning and digital tools to foster curiosity, community, and exploration. This curriculum will enhance knowledge of oyster biology, ocean ecosystems, food systems, and climate change through activities that build problem-solving skills and real-world confidence. Aligned with the Ocean Literacy Framework and the Next Generation Science Standards, the program emphasizes connection to nature, ocean stewardship, and a sense of local and global community. By nurturing ocean and aquaculture literacy, partners aim to empower young learners with essential environmental understanding, change-making behaviors, and exciting future possibilities.

Two people crouch on the shore of a body of water. With containers and equipment, they assess seaweed and algae they've collected from the water behind them.
Saltwater Classroom Founder Lexi Doudera pressing seaweed with a student. (Image credit: Courtesy of Saltwater Classroom)
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Additional information

Lead institution: Saltwater Classroom
Co-PIs: Nauti Sisters Sea Farm, Maine Sea Grant