Port Townsend Marine Science Center Events

D² - Daily Discoveries in February

2012-01-26T14:48:00.000-08:00

This February, the Natural History Exhibit opens for 2012!

open noon to 4 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Join us each day for our latest Daily Discoveries:

Plastics
February 3, 4 & 5

Where is plastic hiding? Did you check your toothpaste? Learn how plastics are in nearly everything we use, and how they are making their way to the marine environment. We'll cover topics such as nurdles, microplastics, and the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.

The (Carbon) Dating Game

February 10, 11, & 12

If it weren't for Carbon-14, we wouldn't date at all! We've

all heard about scientists using carbon dating to help solve mysteries such as the age of fossils, geologic history, and the dinosaurs - but what exactly does it mean to "carbon date" something? With a game that's appropriate for all ages, come learn how to date! (And sorry, but we're not actually giving out relationship advice...)

Insects

February 17, 18, & 19

Buggin' out can be a good thing! Come on over and find

out why - our newly identified and organized insect collection will surely keep adults and children fascinated. Join us for a up-close view of our latest buggy discoveries.

Sand
February 24, 25, and 26

Take a closer look and see how every beach of sand is surprisingly different.

With samples from around

the world to compare, you'll get a hands-on experience with microscopes and learn how to describe rocks and sand as scientists do.

Find us on Facebook and Twitter - get the latest updates and information on how you can inspire conservation of the Salish Sea.

2012 Auction Registration

2012-01-20T11:01:00.000-08:00

Thank you for registering for the Tides of March Benefit Auction!

Wildlife Cruises to Protection Island: 2012 Schedule

2012-01-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

Our cruises are hosted by seasoned naturalist Roger Risley,who provides excellent commentary on the natural history of the island and thewildlife sighted. Join us on one of the cruises below! (Cruises are held aboardthe Glacier Spirit, operated by Puget Sound Express, except where otherwisenoted.)

Spring Migration Cruises

April 28 & May 5

1-4 p.m.

Puffin Cruises

July 7, 14, 21, 28 & August 4

6-9 p.m.

(July 21st aboard the Olympus)

Fall Migration Cruises

October 6 & 13

1-4 p.m.

Winter Wildlife Cruises

November 24 & December 31

1-4 p.m.

For reservations and information: (800) 566-3932 ~ (360)385-5582 ~ e-mail: cruises@ptmsc.org

Offered in partnership with and generous support from PugetSound Express

The Protection Island National Wildlife Refuge is home tobreeding, nesting, and flyway populations of close to 100 marine bird speciesat different times of the year. Located close to Puget Sound, approximately 70 percent of the nesting seabirds in ourinland waters nest here, including the largest nesting colony of rhinocerosauklets in the world. The island contains one of the last 2 nesting colonies oftufted puffins in the Puget Sound area. About1,000 harbor seals use the island as a pupping and rest area, and elephantseals often haul out to molt there during the summer. We have been leadingseasonal wildlife cruises to view the changing community of birds and mammalsusing the sanctuary since 1984.

Summer Camp 2012 Schedule

2011-12-09T15:08:00.001-08:00

At the Port Townsend Marine Science Center, our Summer Camps are great for kids exploring beaches, uncovering treasures hidden in our exhibits, playing games, making crafts and hiking through beautiful Fort Worden State Park. Our science campers come back year after year, and many of our past campers return again as camp counselors. Join us for a wet, sandy, adventurous, fun-filled week!

2012 Summer Camp dates:

New! Longboat Explorers

July 24-25 or August 20-21 (for ages 12-18 years)
Row and sail aboard a 26 foot open boat while discovering the life
beneath you through science activities. Work with fellow crew members
in this 2-day program to navigate the vessel over eel grass beds
and deeper waters. Campers will also have the opportunity to create
experiments to learn more about marine life. Perfect for returning or new
campers. Check out this fun and exciting new program in collaboration
with the NW Maritime Center!

Junior Explorers (now offering two week-long sessions!)

June 25 – 29, August 6 - 10: AM & PM camp sessions available (for ages 5-7 years)

Kids spend a week exploring and discovering marine and coastal life - animals, plants and secret spots. This half-day summer science camp is all about fun, hands-on activities in and around the Marine Science Center. This science camp is a great program for the younger camper who loves marine animals and exploring on the coast!

Coastal Explorers

July 9 – 13: all day camp sessions (for ages 8-12 years)

Ready, set, explore! In this science camp, kids examine the varied natural environments of beach, glacial bluff, forest, pond and meadow, and critters that live there. Using observation skills, campers discover how these places and the creatures living here support life in the coastal ecosystem. This is the perfect summer science camp for nature loving kids who want to explore it all!

Marine Biology Day Camp

July 30 – Aug. 3: all day camp sessions (for ages 9-13 years)

Dive into science! Spend a week discovering where marine critters live and what they need to survive life on the shore and in the sea. Campers will learn about many local marine species and how they interact in the marine ecosystem. This is an excellent summer science camp for budding marine biologists and kids who love exploring the outdoors.

Please contact us at 360-385-5582 x104 or email info@ptmsc.org if you have questions regarding our summer science camps. Download camp application materials here. Download the 2012 PTMSC summer camp flier here. Scholarships are available to those who qualify.

2011-2012 Winter Hours

2011-10-24T12:32:00.000-07:00

Winter Hours effective through March 2012

Natural History Exhibit: Friday, Saturday & Sunday - Noon to 4 p.m.
Marine Exhibit: Open by appointment for groups.

Please email info@ptmsc.org if you have questions.