DISHS Students Learn About Green Crabs, Marine Debris at Hurricane Island

Pathways 101- Studying Art and Science Through Marine Debris Sculptures:

As part of the Pathways 101 class, 29 students answered the question "how does art help us communicate what we learn through science?" as they participated in marine debris sculpture project.  After learning about the impact of marine debris, especially micro plastics, groups of students conducted a beach cleanup along a 1/4 mile stretch of Hurricane's coastline.  Students categorized the debris that they found and compared it to baselines from previous surveys.  Students then drew on the work of famous landscape artists to create temporary "debris sculptures" using the debris they had collected.

Throughout the remainder of the school year, the students will continue their investigation of green crabs in their own schools.  The green crab project will provide students the opportunity to learn and practice important skills such as active citizenship, public speaking, interpreting and using data, and applied science and engineering that will prepare them for modern fishing careers as well as post-secondary education. The project has further application beyond their high school education, however, as students are conducting "real-world" research that researchers and regulators can use as they seek to sustain the fisheries component of the coastal economy, which is critical to Downeast communities.