Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration and Immersion Presents are divisions of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advancing oceanographic exploration and marine life education, conservation and research.

Conservation Programs for Children and Families

Earth Day Celebration and Beach Clean up Event

After another year of enjoying the planet we share, it is time for our annual Earth Day Celebration!  On Saturday, April 19 visit the aquarium to participate in scavenger hunts, creating crafts, and other hands on conservation based activities.  You can event talk with staff to learn how the whole family can become involved in current local conservation programs; like creating a butterfly garden in your own backyard or joining the Aquarium's own Amphibian Monitoring Project to study local frogs, toads and salamanders.  Interested in getting more involved in local conservation efforts?  Join us on Sunday, April 20 from 10:00am-1:00pm for the annual Earth Day Clean up at Bluff Point State Park.

Saturday, April 19's Earth Day activities are included with Aquarium admission.  Reservations are requested for the April 20 beach clean up.

Be Part of Amphibian Conservation

2008 is the Year of the Frog. Spearheaded by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, this year will mark a major conservation effort to address the amphibian extinction crisis and also engage the public in amphibian conservation. There are more than 5,500 species of amphibians and the World Conservation Union estimates that at least one-third of these species are threatened with extinction.

Partnering with the Beardsley Zoo, Roger Williams Park Zoo and the National Wildlife Federation’s Frogwatch; MAIFE is joining the effort. We will be starting an Amphibian Monitoring Project to determine a baseline population size of amphibians in our area so that changes in the populations can be realized year to year. We will be using 2 methods of data collection, vocalizations as well as visual sightings.

How can you get involved in this important cause?
MAIFE will highlight amphibians by offering information and activities during a Leap Day event hosted on February 29 and March 1 and during April School Vacation Week April 12 - 20. These activities are included with the price of admission.

Make more of an impact by attending one of our free Amphibian Monitoring Project trainings. During these family friendly workshops you will learn about local amphibian species, the plight of amphibians and the conservation efforts underway to protect and conserve them. You will also learn how you can become a vital member of our data collecting team.

• Amphibian Monitoring Project Trainings March 29, April 27, 3:00pm - 6:00pm
  - Registration is required for the trainings. To register contact the reservations department at 860.572.5955 ext 520 or email reservations@mysticaquarium.org