A newsletter from the Prince William Sound Science Center

Summer 2024

Nootka Lupine in full bloom near the Tsiu River—photo credit Signe Baumann.

We're pleased to announce the release of our 2023 Annual Report, available at the link below. In the 35 years since our founding, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to advancing community resilience, developing a better understanding of the incredible ecosystems that surround our home, and sharing information with decision-makers who matter—including you.

In an increasingly disconnected world, connection remains at the heart of our work. Take a look at our FY23 Annual Report for updates on what our terrific team has been up to. Thanks for being one of the important people who stays connected with us to support the resilience of one of the world’s best places, home of the world’s richest waters.

Copper River Nouveau dessert, prepared by Chef Nancy Alip: ube leche flan cake with matcha tuille cookies and fruity boba pearls—photo credit Shane Balian.

On June 8, we celebrated two milestones: the 25th annual Copper River Nouveau and the 35th anniversary of the Prince William Sound Science Center. The Cordova Center was filled with friends and supporters from across Alaska and the Lower 48.

A heartfelt mission moment included four people, all critical to the Science Center's founding and early successes, on stage. Nancy Bird, former Vice President and later President/CEO; RJ Kopcak, founding member and former Development Director; Penny Oswalt, the first Science Center employee as Finance Director; and Mead Treadwell, former and current Board Member, spoke to the vision and dedication that it took to incorporate the Science Center.

After enjoying a five-course meal prepared by Jens' Restaurant owner and executive chef Nancy Alip, guests showcased their generosity during the live auction and special appeal. Our sponsors, in-kind donors, and online auction participants buoyed the funds raised that night. We exceeded our fundraising goal and, once again, were awed by the outpouring of support. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this year's celebration.

Students from Whittier get ready to hike to Sheridan Glacier—photo credit PWSSC staff.

While most schools choose a school bus for their field trips, the Chugach School District opted for the ferry! In May, the Prince William Sound Science Center hosted students from Whittier for a four-day field trip. Students crossed the sound to better understand the connections between shared resources, ecosystem services, and our two communities. 

Students visited tide pools at Orca Beach, hiked the Heney Ridge trail while looking for shorebirds, stood in awe of Sheridan Glacier, played on the Delta’s sand dunes, and toured the Cordova harbor to learn more about the interactions of the ecosystem and the commercial fishing economy.

On their last day, they met fourth-grade students from Cordova for a joint field trip to Alaganik. Students practiced nature journaling, were introduced to the Dusky Geese that nest in the area, learned about bird banding, and looked for macroinvertebrates. Local students shared memories of the Alaganik River and showed Whittier students some of their favorite spots. 

It was the first time these students had visited Cordova. Chances are, they will be back. One student said, “I wish I had wings so I could fly to Cordova to play on the weekend.”

This opportunity was generously funded by the National Park Trust’s Every Kid Outdoors Small Grants Program. We would also like to thank our partners, the USDA Forest Service and the Chugach School District.

We hope you can join us this month for some educational fun! Different programs are intended for specific ages, as noted below. Younger participants need to be accompanied by a caregiver. Everyone is welcome to attend. A current calendar of events can be found on our website. Subscribe here if you'd like to receive email notifications for upcoming community education programs.

July 5 (10-11 am) Discover Cordova: Tidepooling at Orca Beach

Calling young explorers who want to discover new things in familiar places! The Science Center will be on hand with ID guides, tools, and a fun intertidal scavenger hunt. Please dress for the weather and bring rubber boots. Participants will need to climb over rocks to access the tidepool. 

Park at the pull-off on the right just before Orca Adventure Lodge. Look for the Science Center van and sign.

July 6 (9-10 am) Sensory Friendly Tidepooling at Orca Beach

Explore the smaller organisms that share our shores! Educators will be on hand to help kids find and learn about the invertebrates living along the coastline. There will be fun tools to see critters up close, sensory kits, towels for drying off, a scavenger hunt, coloring pages, and the opportunity to venture as little or as far as you feel comfortable. 

Park at the pull-off on the right just before Orca Lodge. Look for the Science Center van and sign! Please dress for the weather. Rubber boots and rain pants are recommended for full immersive exploration.

Sensory-friendly programming is for children who experience disabilities and for their siblings. 

July 15 (6-7 pm) Nature Journaling: Species Profile

The Prince William Sound Science Center will host monthly Nature Journaling sessions for the summer of 2024. These sessions will occur on the second Monday of the month, from 6-7 pm. July’s session will focus on creating a species profile. We will meet at Orca Beach to practice our ability to find a plant or animal and account for the variety of features that make it unique. Open to all ages and supplies will be provided to those who need them.

July 20 (3-5 pm) Small Fry

Join the Science Center and our partners at Small Fry, the children's portion of Salmon Jam. There will be fish printing, face painting, music, bubbles, crafts, games, and more!

Small Fry is part of the Salmon Jam Festival and tickets are required for entry.