Many of our rivers and streams empty into the inlets of South Puget Sound. Actions in the watershed also impact water quality in the Sound, including shellfish harvest. Field trips take students to Puget Sound shorelines, such as the Henderson Inlet Community Shellfish Farm, Tolmie State Park, Zittel’s Marina, and Boston Harbor Marina. Students learn that shellfish are filter feeders and need to grow in clean water to provide a safe food source for human consumption. Students learn about non-point sources of pollution, including pet waste, and have an opportunity to sign the pet waste pledge.
Funding for nearshore education is currently provided by the Shellfish Fund (through the Thurston Conservation District Assessment).