See some stories of who scientists are and how they work in exhibits such as:

DR. GARY GRIGGS – Coastal Geology

Studying coastal processes involves looking at the same parts of the coast over time and across many seasons to see how it changes. Dr. Griggs studies of coastal cliffs and beaches to visualize, measure, and document erosion. Comparing views of older photos to new ones, and summer photos to winter ones, this exhibit shows what’s happening along our coast.

Peer through a stereoscope viewer for a 3D view of our coastline. See how our coastline has changed over the past 100 years. Compare then-and-now photographs of crumbling cliffs at Natural Bridges and Wilder Ranch.

NOAA and NMFS – Lifestyles of the Fish and Famous

Come get a close look into the surprising world of salmon and rockfish. How different are they and why does it matter?

• What is an otolith, and why do we care? • Is size really important? • How old is old? • And who studies these questions?

The NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service has collaborated with the Seymour Center in creating this collection of hands-on exhibits that will delight and intrigue both young and old.

For more on the NOAA/NMFS studies, visit their website at http://santacruz.nmfs.noaa.gov/index.php

DR. MARY SILVER – Marine Snow Studies
For more than 20 years, Mary Silver has been studying marine snow-the tiny bits of dead plant, animal and other material that constantly shower down toward the deep ocean floor. Using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to film and collect the snow, Dr. Silver studies its origins and make-up, destination, and role in the marine ecosystem.
Try to count the marine snow in the snow globe and see how hard it is. Read about natural historian Ken Norris’s cruise to another world with Dr. Silver. These two dynamic scientists made quite a pair!

WALL OF RESEARCH

Working in the many areas of scientific research is an exciting and rewarding career. See snapshots of some of the fascinating things researchers get to do as they pursue knowledge for practical application. The “In the Field” presentation gives a glimpse of the exotic places and bizarre creatures these great teams explore.

Exhibits: what is science, why is science important, who are scientists, and questions science asks.