During the field component of the course, students sail aboard the skipjack Sigsbee to marine research facilities, aquaculture labs, preserved wetlands, and various historic shoreside stops where they conduct research and camp overnight. Students work alongside leading scientists in the aquaculture field and help restore a 20-acre sanctuary in Baltimore's Patapsco River. During the land component at the Weinberg Education Center, students examine invertebrate biology and ecology topics such as estuarine interactions, predator-prey relationships, and the ecological role of the oyster beds. They learn about the watershed, water parameters, and water quality of the Chesapeake Bay. Students also visit Baltimore's National Aquarium.
Students learn several aspects of sailing, oystering, and marine research.
They share the responsibility with staff of setting up and striking camp, cooking, cleaning, and maintaining the ship. Teamwork is essential. Throughout the course, students are challenged to understand not only marine research but also its connections to the ecological, environmental, and economic issues surrounding the Chesapeake Bay. Enrollment is limited to 24 students per session. No sailing experience is required.