Manatee Encounter
Posted: 06-Feb-2012 Category: High School, OCS-Academics
OCS Marine Science and Environmental Science classes traveled to SEA Education Adventures to experience their Manatee Encounter. It is designed to provide an appreciation for the Florida Manatee through a unique educational experience. Some scientists believe that we are amidst the final decades of the manatee’s existence.
The Manatee Encounter program included an informative slide presentation introducing the life history of the manatee and other various marine mammals as well as the guidelines for their “in-water” manatee encounter. Following the presentation, participants were fitted for wetsuits and issued equipment including mask, fins and snorkel. Participants then boarded SEA’s custom 40-foot 46-passenger vessel.
After a short boat ride and tour of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, students entered the water and snorkeled face-to-face with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Crystal River is home to the largest wintering population of Florida Manatees, more than 500 annually. Although the weather and air temperature may be cold, manatees come to Crystal River for our warm spring-fed waters averaging 72 degrees year round.
Students experienced a once in a lifetime opportunity!
The Manatee Encounter program included an informative slide presentation introducing the life history of the manatee and other various marine mammals as well as the guidelines for their “in-water” manatee encounter. Following the presentation, participants were fitted for wetsuits and issued equipment including mask, fins and snorkel. Participants then boarded SEA’s custom 40-foot 46-passenger vessel.
After a short boat ride and tour of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, students entered the water and snorkeled face-to-face with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Crystal River is home to the largest wintering population of Florida Manatees, more than 500 annually. Although the weather and air temperature may be cold, manatees come to Crystal River for our warm spring-fed waters averaging 72 degrees year round.
Students experienced a once in a lifetime opportunity!
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