Is the Marine Protected Area offshore from Crystal Cove State Park working? Your class can help us find out! During this integrated program, students help scientists study the Crystal Cove State Marine Conservation Area and explore how communities can use science communication to protect our oceans.
As part of the program, classes head to sea aboard a fishing vessel to help collect monitoring data in the Crystal Cove State Marine Conservation Area!
Booking: Field trip dates can be booked by contacting jessica@newportwhales.com.
Maximum Group Size: Up to 40 participants.
Financial Aid: We offer financial support to junior high and high schools who seek to participate in the MPA Science Expedition program.
By applying for funding, you commit to:
- Attending a virtual professional development workshop before your program;
- Facilitating pre- and post-trip student assessments in the classroom;
- Sending student Thank You notes to assigned donors after your program;
- Submitting final invoices within 60 days of your program or by June 10, 2026 (whichever occurs first).
Additional Information:
- The Marine Protected Area Science Expedition involves a field trip to collect data at Crystal Cove State Marine Conservation Area during Session 6 out of 10.
- Please note that the maximum group size for one field trip is limited to 40 students. If you have more than 40 students participating in the program, you will need to divide your group into two or more visits. The minimum group size for one field trip is 20 students.
To book a field trip, contact Alyssa Aldaz, Education Manager, by emailing alyssa@crystalcove.org.