Students enrolled in the Advanced Placement (AP) Environmental Science course at Valencia High School recently had the unique opportunity to participate in hands-on scientific research as part of a citizen science initiative. Under the guidance of educators Ms. Rebecca Bonet and Mr. Sergio Narez, students embarked on a field expedition to the Crystal Cove Marine Protected Area, located just off the coast of Crystal Cove State Beach.
During the excursion, students engaged in a series of research activities focused on evaluating the ecological health of the marine environment. They collected and analyzed water and plankton samples, conducted pollution level assessments, and performed ocean acidification titrations. As part of their fieldwork, students also examined and identified various plankton species present in the collected samples, contributing valuable biological data to ongoing environmental monitoring efforts.
The data gathered by Valencia High School students is incorporated into larger datasets maintained by the University of California, Irvine (UCI) and Crystal Cove Conservancy. These organizations use the information to assess the ongoing benefits and effectiveness of the Marine Protected Area, which plays a critical role in preserving biodiversity and supporting sustainable marine ecosystems.
This experiential learning opportunity provided students with meaningful insight into environmental science methodologies while reinforcing the importance of scientific research in the stewardship of natural resources. It also highlighted the vital role citizen science plays in advancing environmental conservation and education.
Be the first to comment on "Valencia High School AP Environmental Science Students Engage in Citizen Science at Crystal Cove"