Our second Saturday Event consisted of a beach cleanup at Jenness Beach followed by a visit to the Seacoast Science Center. We arrived at Jenness Beach to meet Patty, the Program Coordinator, for the Blue Ocean Society. She gave a short explanation about the Blue Ocean Society and how it relates to marine conservation, as well as how the beach cleanup benefits both the local community and ocean ecosystem as a whole. Following the cleanup, all the volunteers were able to debrief with the Blue Ocean Society. This gave us a good opportunity to ask questions, take pictures, and engage with professionals after the project.
After the cleanup we departed for our second destination, The Seacoast Science Center. Located about 10 minutes north towards Portsmouth, the center boasts interpretive exhibits, an interactive touch-tank, and seaside setting. Members were able to provide service to the center through various tasks needed to maintain a properly working facility. There were many exhibits illustrating the local history of the New England coast. In addition, there were many interactive engaging activities, such as a touch-tank with starfish, aquariums with various fish, and historical information.
The Manchester Conservation Leadership Corps members all seemed to have a great time, and thoroughly enjoyed their day by the ocean!
1 - Crew leader Sean and members Evan, Mihn-Tam, and Destiny begin the beach cleanup with Patty from the Blue Ocean Society.
2 - The windy day at the beach didn't stop the SCA Manchester crew from picking up 65 pounds of litter!
3 - Crew members Destiny, Mihn-Tam, Qi Qi, Weiman, and Evan enjoy one of the many interpretive exhibits at the Seacoast Science Center.