The Manchester Township Middle School Eco Explorers set sail aboard The Jersey Girl out of Belmar for an unforgettable whale-watching adventure! Students experienced the wonders of our local marine ecosystem firsthand, and the highlight of the trip was an incredible encounter with a young humpback whale.
The curious whale swam right alongside the boat, giving students an up-close look at one of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures. In fact, it came so close that everyone could smell its fishy breath! The onboard naturalist identified the whale as a young humpback that has been migrating up and down the New Jersey coast for the past four years. What an amazing opportunity to learn about a familiar visitor to our local waters!
The excitement continued when students spotted Rutgers scientists aboard another research vessel, collecting data on the very same whale and attempting to tag it. Seeing marine scientists at work gave our Eco Explorers a firsthand look at how researchers study, track, and protect marine wildlife.
Throughout the trip, students observed large bait balls of fish, seabirds, dolphins, and even a sunfish! They also gained a unique perspective of the New Jersey coastline from the water. In a wonderful example of environmental stewardship in action, the crew slowed down to retrieve a cluster of balloons floating in the ocean, preventing them from becoming a hazard to marine wildlife.
From observing a humpback whale up close to witnessing real-world marine research and ocean conservation, the trip was packed with learning, discovery, and excitement. Our Eco Explorers returned with a greater appreciation for the incredible wildlife living just off our coast, and plenty of stories to tell!
The Eco Explorers Club is able to operate due to a NJEA HIPP Grant. It was truly a whale of a day for our Eco Explorers!