Women of Water (WoW!)

Hurricane Island programs embed students in experiences that leverage the art and practices of science as tools for leadership and social change. Through personal and group explorations, students explore their own strengths as transformative leaders who can address the sustainability challenges facing our world today.

Women of Water is a 13-day program for female-identifying students entering grades 10-12 to learn about oceanography, marine biology, sustainability, marine technology, and more. Students will engage in learning about the changing Gulf of Maine through an oceanographic lens. Students will develop marine science research questions applicable to Penobscot Bay and conduct their own independent research project. They will collect biological, geological, physical, and chemical data aboard a vessel using a range of oceanographic sampling tools and techniques. All of the experiences are designed to help our students make observations about the natural world, generate questions, and think critically. Once back on Hurricane, students will analyze the data they collected on the sailing expedition, culminating in a mainland presentation of findings to family, friends, and the public. In addition, participants will develop essential leadership skills for climate action, including facilitating groups, working through conflict, and the art of generous listening. The pace of this experience allows for a satisfying balance between traditional Hurricane Island adventures (rock climbing, rowing, lobstering, pier jumping, etc.) while focusing on growing as young scientists and environmental stewards.

High School Women of Water activities may include:

• Exploring all aspects of the marine environment from the intertidal to the water column

• Working with the Hurricane Island research team to get hands-on with Hurricane’s aquaculture projects

• Understanding methods of scientific inquiry in land- and sea-based environments

• Experience using marine sampling gear and techniques including a Niskin bottle, Ekman dredge, plankton tows, and analyzing the water chemistry, plankton abundance and diversity, and sediment grain sizes throughout the Penobscot Bay

• Learning from women who have made the ocean their home in science and maritime professions