Dive into hands-on learning every summer with Save Barnegat Bay’s STEAM Summer Series!

Join scientists, educators, and local experts as we explore the coast, discover shellfish and wildlife, visit exciting exhibits, and learn how our communities are built—all while being introduced to a variety of STEAM careers.

Young people ages 5-15 from our local community are encouraged to apply, but space is limited. Thanks to the generous support of the Clare Foundation, this program is free to participants.

The program runs on Tuesdays in July & August, from 10 AM to 12 PM, at various locations.

Take a look at our upcoming STEAM Adventures!

2025 Tentative Schedule

Science Dissection

Location: Barnegat Bay EcoCenter
Kick off our STEAM program by diving into marine biology and exploring the anatomy of a sea creature. (Species TBD.)
Presenter: SBB Staff

NJ’s Tall Ship: A.J. Meerwald

Location: Island Heights Yacht Club
Students will tour the historic schooner, meet the crew, explore maritime history, and engage in environmental science activities.
Presenter: Island Heights Yacht Club, Bayshore Center at Bivalve, & AJ Meerwald Crew

Sparks Lab: 3D Design for the Environment

Location: Ocean County Library – Toms River
Discover how digital design and 3D printing can protect the environment. Students will create designs to be printed or cut later.
Presenter: Ocean County Library Sparks Lab

Shed No Light on the Stars

Location: Robert J. Novins Planetarium – OCC
Explore Earth and the cosmos in the immersive full-dome theater.
Presenter: OCC Planetarium Staff

Salt Marsh Adventures

Location: Cattus Island County Park
Students will get a guided tour of Cattus Island’s trails and salt marsh ecosystems.
Presenter: Cattus Island County Park Naturalists

Carbon Cycling & Climate Solutions

Location: NJ Natural Gas – 1415 Wyckoff Rd, Wall Township, NJ
Go behind the scenes to learn about the carbon cycle, energy infrastructure, and climate innovation.
Presenter: NJNG & SBB Staff

 

Behind the Scenes at Popcorn Park Zoo

Location: Popcorn Park Zoo, Forked River
Popcorn Park is home to native wildlife, exotic animals, and rescued pets. This small but mighty nonprofit will give us an inside look at what it takes to care for such a diverse group of animals in their sanctuary.
Presenter: Popcorn Park Zoo Staff

Dinosaurs in New Jersey

Location: Barnegat Bay EcoCenter
Explore New Jersey’s prehistoric past and fossil history.
Presenter: Marc Rogoff, NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife

Animal Enrichment: The Science of Care

Location: Jenkinson’s Aquarium
Learn how enrichment strategies help aquarium animals express natural behaviors.
Presenter: Jenkinson’s Aquarium & SBB Staff

Caring for Wildlife

Location: Barnegat Bay EcoCenter
Meet live animals and learn how wildlife rehab uses science and engineering.
Presenter: Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge

STEAM Student Presentation to the Mayor & Council

Location: Point Pleasant Beach Municipal Building
Students present their summer learnings to the Point Pleasant Beach Mayor and Council.
Presenter: Save Barnegat Bay

Join the STEAM Staff!

Alexandra Sellitsch

Alex is 27 years old and is an aspiring marine biologist who is finishing up her junior year at Stockton University. Growing up by the beach has made a significant impact on Alex’s life, which has influenced her passion for the ocean. She is an advocate for elasmobranch conservation, and enjoys getting her hands dirty in research. Alex is currently an intern with Barnegat Bay, researching pathogen influences in the bay’s water. She is also an active intern partnering with one of her professors, who is researching dual seagrass habitats in the Mullica River-Great Bay Estuary. In her spare time, Alex enjoys spending time at the beach and teaching herserself new hobbies. Hobbies that include roller skating, and surfing. Alex is also volunteering with the Berkeley Township Underwater Search and Rescue Team, and is in the process of obtaining her SCUBA certification.