3rd-5th Grade

MANGROVES AND MUDFLATS

Program includes kayaking on Newman Branch Creek

DURATION: 4 hours
CAPACITY: 20-26 students

Via kayak, students will paddle 0.8 miles down a tidal creek surrounded by mangrove habitat. Prior to venturing out, SYCC’s kayaking instructors will review safety, equipment, and paddle strokes to ensure participants are comfortable and prepared for adventure! Once at the destination, students will explore the mudflat to locate various plants and animals while learning about the challenges each species faces and adaptations that help them survive.

MARINE WILDLIFE DISCOVERY

DURATION: 4 hours
CAPACITY: 20-50 students

Through play and interactive activities, students will learn how three different types of animals (fiddler crabs, ospreys, & sea turtles) survive in Tampa Bay, as well as ways we can help protect them. Students will be encouraged to make wildlife observations during each activity: What’s flying in the sky, or scurrying at their feet? Let curiosity soar!

FISHING CLINIC

DURATION: 4 hours
CAPACITY: 20-50 students

Students begin by learning the basics of ethical angling including basic gear, proper fish handling techniques, fishing regulation basics, and why it’s important to protect marine fisheries. Once the concept of ethical angling has been introduced, students will practice skills including tying on a hook, properly identifying and measuring fish, and casting a fishing rod. Finally, students will try out catch-and-release fishing on SYCC’s brackish water pond.

Fishing clinics can also be adapted to fit groups with students from multiple grade levels (Grades 3-12)

RAINY DAY ALTERNATIVE:
INDOOR MARINE WILDLIFE DISCOVERY

In the event of inclement weather that does not lead to full cancellation of the program, SYCC will lead an altered version of our Marine Wildlife Discovery program indoors or under shelter.