Independent Study Support at the Nature Center

NRNC encourages use of our facility to conduct student independent study projects. There is much about the nature of Puget Sound's species and natural processes that is poorly understood, especially in south Puget Sound. While the nature center is not capable of or interested in competing with the research facilities of major universities, we can support basic scientific inquiry on a number of estuarine topics. As an extension of the Nature Center's educational programs for youth, mature students interested in a future career in marine science can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Sound's rhythms and resources through independent studies. Many high school students participate in science fairs. The Nature Center can enhance classroom laboratory experience by providing a field site, limited analytical equipment, and administrative support for independent study projects.

Here's a list of just some of the natural processes and topics we've thought of that students can explore here:

• Plankton ecology

• Shorebird behavior

• Harbor Seal behavior

• Subtidal Eelgrass ecology

• Intertidal mudflat ecology

• Marsh vegetation dynamics

• Delta face sedimentation/erosion dynamics

• Waterfowl behavior and seasonal occurrence

• Marine fish occurrence, behavior, and seasonality

• Invertebrate recruitment, settlement, growth, and behavior

Changes in physical and chemical water properties such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, salinity, and turbidity under different environmental conditions of tide, season, rainfall, and climate variability (e.g. En Niño - La Niña).

For additional information, or to discuss a potential project, please send an e-mail outlining your project goals or research questions to nrnc@nisquallyestuary.org

WA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife photo