Earnie Olsen, Supervisor-Marine Science Station
“The Citrus County School District’s Marine Science Station recently hosted three weeks of summer camp for over 90 students in middle school and high school. The campers enjoyed exploring local spring systems, rivers, estuaries, and the nearshore waters of the Gulf of Mexico. They were immersed in hands on field experiences within the springs of Kings Bay, the estuaries of the Crystal River and Salt River, the mangrove swamps and sea grass meadows of the St. Martins Marsh Aquatic Preserve, and the Native American shell middens of Shell Island and Mullet Key. Campers collected and analyzed water quality data, snorkeled in beautiful locations every day, and caught, studied, and released a wide variety of aquatic and marine species. They encountered dozens of bird species, with the highlight being multiple roseate spoonbills in a mangrove swamp. Besides the science education portion of the camp, the students developed a greater appreciation of their watery world and created lifelong memories with new friends. The Marine Science Station is grateful for the support of all our sponsors, especially the Citrus County Audubon Society. Your steadfast and generous support through the years has allowed many children to get outdoors and experience the Real Florida!
Thank you!” –
