Mangrove Program New Additions 2016-2017: Living Oceans Foundation

Mangrove Program New Additions

I’m excited to also share that Symone Johnson, a National Oceanographic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Knauss Fellow, is joining us for the first phase of the B.A.M. and J.A.M.I.N. programs. Symone is volunteering with us as part of her professional development training to learn about managing, implementing, and evaluating education programs such as ours. Welcome Symone!

Symone Johnson helping students at Forest Heights to use a GPS device.

When we arrive in Abaco, Bahamas, Abaco Central High School and Forest Heights Academy are just getting in the full swing of a new school year. It’s a good time to implement our programs. Last year, we piloted the B.A.M. program in various grade levels and classes, but we found that the program aligns best with the Biology grade 10 curriculum. This year B.A.M. will begin in the grade 10 Biology classes and I’m excited to meet all of the new students.

Abaco Central High School Biology Class, Grade 10

Forest Heights Academy Biology Class, Grade 10

Additionally, we will pilot a second year program at Forest Heights Academy with students who participated in the last year’s B.A.M. program. We are very excited to be able to continue expanding students’ knowledge of mangroves!

Forest Heights Academy Marine Biology Class

Keep following our blogs for more information about our new second year Mangrove Education and Restoration program.

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Coral Bleaching Awareness Month: Giving Coral Reefs a Chance to Recover

For hundreds of millions of years, coral reefs have supported life in our oceans. Although they cover less than 1% of the ocean floor, they provide habitat for at least 25% of all marine species. They also support people around the world by sustaining fisheries and tourism, providing food and livelihoods, and helping protect coastlines from waves and storms.

But coral reefs are under increasing pressure. Pollution, overfishing, coastal development, physical damage, and increasingly warm ocean temperatures can all affect reef health. One of the most visible signs that a coral reef is under stress is coral bleaching.

This September, in recognition of Coral Bleaching Awareness Month, we’re taking a closer look at what happens when corals bleach, why bleaching matters, and what scientists around the world are doing to better understand, protect, and restore coral reefs.

Everything You Need to Know About the 2027 Science Without Borders® Challenge

Are you ready to combine your creativity with ocean science?

The 15th Annual Science Without Borders® Challenge is now open! Whether you’re participating for the first time or returning for another year, this guide will help you get started.

This year’s theme, Navigate With Care, invites students to explore how responsible navigation helps protect both people and life in the ocean. Through your artwork, you can compete for scholarships and international recognition while inspiring others to protect both people and life in the ocean.